Now that I’m a Southern California girl there’s ample opportunity to be poolside, but even when I was back on the East Coast – Memorial Day weekend always meant a trip to the nearest beach/pool/lake to kick off summer…
And while that definitely calls for something casual, I like to throw on an outfit that’s presentable enough to run a few errands in or grab lunch just in case the day calls for it. Armed with my Top 20 Summer Essentials (see the full list here) I started with the obvious – a bathing suit (#12 on the list) and sunglasses (#8). From there I added cut off jean shorts (#4), because, honestly is there anything more quintessentially summer-y? Then paired them with a bright blouse (#1) – in this case a textured cotton number – for a laid back look. Here’s where most people would stop – but I urge you to take one extra minute and throw on a thin leather belt (#19) and a statement bracelet (#14). Neither one is fussy like a statement necklace or earrings would be (and they can easily be slipped off and thrown into your bag when you get to the pool) but they add just enough polish to really turn this into an outfit. Finally, I slipped on a pair of canvas sneakers (#18) – just as easy as flip flops but way cooler. And last but not least, a tote bag (#13) to wrangle your towel, sunscreen etc. The ‘Steele’ tote bag shown here is made by Steele Canvas Basket Co. for J.Crew, but if you don’t happen to have a company making chic totes with your name already printed on them – go the monogram route. If you need me, I’ll be relaxing by the pool…
