Beach Essentials

 

Above image from Paris Vogue.

Whether you are planning a spring trip to Florida (like me), Montauk for Memorial Day, or just a relaxed summer around your backyard pool, these pieces will get you through in style.  As I prepare for a week on the beach, this is what I'll be sure to pack.  No black, no heels (well, maybe one pair) - just the relaxed basics that make me feel comfortable and stylish.  

For a nice summer (or beach town) dinner, caftans are forever chic.  The below Oscar de la Renta piece is a bit pricey ($2340 at Bergdorf Goodman, image from Style.com), but I have an amazing one from the 1970's that I found at my favorite vintage shop for $40 (check out vintage store listings in my Fur post).  

 

 

Below, Men's Secret Wash Button-Down Shirt in Faded Gingham, $60 at J.Crew.  Great with jean shorts as a coverup, or can be tucked into skinny jeans for a lobster dinner.

 

 

Below, Levi's Denim Shorts, $24.99 at Savoir-Faire: The Store.  Can be worn over and over again to the beach and around town, and could even be paired with chunky heels and a loose tank for a drink at the local bar.

 

 

Below, Wide-brim woven straw hats (not fedoras) are great for right now and protect your hair and face.  Madewell Panama Hat, $42 at Madewell stores (below photo is from J.Crew - same hat, slightly higher price).

 

 

Leather and woven wrap bracelets are perfect for summer and beach vacations.  Below, Hapi 3MM leather bracelet with gold plated buckle, $285 at Hermès and Shashi Suede Crystal Bracelet, $65 at Shopbop.

      

 

   

 

Cropped tops will not be in for long, so if you can wear them (and be honest here), now's the time.  This style is best for the beach or pool.  Below, Whitley Kros Cropped Tank, $75 at Shopbop.

 

 

As I reported in my Swimwear post in December, vintage-style bikinis with high-waisted briefs are the latest trend, and one that I am loving.  Below, Diane Von Furstenberg Bonnie bikini top and briefs, $155 and $140 at Net-A-Porter.

     

 

Classic sunglasses are always the coolest.  I love Ray Ban Clubmasters, below, $109 at Savoir-Faire: The Store.

 

  

I will also be sure to bring Chanel SPF50 sunscreen ($48 at Bergdorf Goodman and most fine department stores), for my face and Clinique Sun SPF 25 Spray for my body ($20 at Clinique).

         

  

And finally, I'll be swapping my leather Mulberry Bayswater for a canvas tote.  I am obsessed with the below bag, $440 at Fleabags.  

 

As I mentioned, I am on my way to the beach and it will be sans laptop.  Check back after the 18th for more postings from Savoir-Faire.

xx Ally