outfit details: coverup {more colors here and here} // hat {sadly sold out now!} // sandals c/o {sold out} // straw bag {old but exact brand/similar here}
Looking your best at the pool or beach is just as fun as a dressing up for dinner. But where people fall short is the functionality. Scroll down to get my secret formula for looking stylish at the pool despite what brand or how much you pay. Plus all the trending brands and products in case you like that too!
THE FORMULA
Coverup // The key to a good coverup is THIS. It should be acceptable to wear out shopping or to a casual lunch. A lot of times us ladies like to run to run an errand or grab a bite before or after the pool. And who wants to bring an extra change of clothes, let alone do an outfit change? Not me. This trick makes life SO much easier. I personally love long sleeves (because I’m always cold with the air conditioner) but it’s totally up to you. If you want an option that isn’t a dress, I recently saw a girl wearing cute cutoff shorts over her bikini – which is a great idea too! Add a top and you’re out the door.
Sandals // For the ultimate convenience, shoes should be slip ons. Skip the buckles and lace ups {such a pain!}. Flip flops are okay but I recommend an affordable sandal you don’t mind getting wet. It dresses up your cover up, looks a bit more put together and just as comfy. I got mine here for $17!
Hat // You can never have a bad hair day with a hat. Big floppy ones with raw edges are trending BIG right now. Not only does it protect your face from the sun but hats are so chic. Now you can go all the way under the water without worrying about your hair!
Bag // The towel test. If your beach bag can’t fit a large towel with room to spare, it’s not worth it. I see women juggling their towels, multiple bags, magazines, etc. all at once. It’s crazy. Buy one good one {that will last you years} and holds EVERYTHING. I also make sure there’s a pocket to stash a $20 bill or a debit card.
Trending Swimsuit Brands and Affordable Look-a-Likes:
When it comes to swimsuits you need to go with what looks best with your body type. So instead of telling you this swimsuit or that, here are the “hot brands” right now. I personally like to buy one nice swimsuit and stock up on affordable options to switch it up. Here’s what’s trending now and where you can get their fraction of a price dupes! P.S. One-pieces are where it’s at this year.
- SPLURGE – Mara Hoffman // Marysia // Solid & Striped: These swimsuits are definitely a splurge but make you look like a MILLION BUCKS. Reason is their prints and cuts are specifically designed to create an illusion you’re taller and slimmer. They also last considerably longer. So if you can swing it, do it. The ones I’ve bought have lasted me three years!
- SAVE – Amazon // Cupshe // Target: ProTip: find a designer swimsuit you LOVE (from above). Then search on Amazon or Cupshe for an affordable dupe. Lots of copy cats out there for a fraction of the cost. And I’m talking $15/$20. DUPE EXAMPLES: This and this AND this and this}. I also love and adore Target, always and forever. P.S. I just noticed, but they sell Cupshe on Amazon too!
Trending Sun Care
Obviously any sunscreen with an appropriate SPF works. But if you want to know the “cool sunscreens” all the celebs and designers wear, here you go! I added a few other fun products as well. Of course they’re organic and non-toxic and a cute way to call dibs on your chair.
- Coola: Smells SO good and love their face sunscreen especially.
- Supergoop: This sunscreen is exactly everything you need and you can find it in stores at Nordstrom and Anthropologie. Pro Tip: Get 15% off your first order directly on Supergoop’s website.
- Drunk Elephant: An Allure winner – which is the Bible of all beauty products.
- Supergoop x MILLY setting mist: Adorable! This mist lets you reapply SPF over your makeup. And one of my favorite designer’s, MILLY, dressed up the packaging. As chic as it gets!
- Evian Mist: If you don’t like getting wet, this is for you!Fancy hotels always have these at readily available for guests. I’ve personally never experienced this but I know people who have! I’m looking at you Steph 😉 Pick this up at your local Jewel (a grocery store in the Midwest) or Walgreens/Dane Reed. Cools you off and so refreshing.
Anyone going to the pool, lake, boating or beach this weekend? We’re actually re-doing our bedroom. Have a lovely weekend everyone and see you next week!
