If the COVID-19 pandemic hasn’t filled your Instagram feed with daily beach outfit ideas – I’m jealous! I adore spending most summer days (outside of work hours) at the beach with my family; especially in the hot sun. Since the pandemic struck however, I find myself consumed by the daily temptations of e-commerce at my fingertips.
The liketoknow.it app is my favourite escape after a long zoom meeting, but it can be equally be merciless on my bank account and if you’re like me – you’re always looking for a deal! When it comes to beach essentials – check out my tips below before you hit “add to cart” on your next attractive beach find.’
The Shoes
If you’re headed for sand, you’re probably reaching for some slides or flip flops. If you’re looking for versatility however (I’m talking beach + cocktails on a patio) I strongly recommend raffia slides. These look just as lovely on the beach boardwalk as they do at a fancy martini bar.
Splurge: Carrie Forbes Salon Woven Slides / Price: $418.00 CAD
SAVE: Palmetto Handmade Emily Tassel Sandal / Price $60.00 CAD
The Bag
Here is where an impulse buy can be difficult to steer clear of, especially for the got-it-together gal! I hear you! A handbag (in many women’s eyes) is a very personal reflection of style and a beach bag, is arguably no different. Whether you have a short or lengthy walk to the beach, you’re probably looking for a mix of trendy, smart, functional and fashionable. Note: don’t click on the splurge if you have a hard time closing your browser window at irresistibly pretty things.
Splurge: Pamela Munson Petite Isla Bahia Terrycloth Bag/ Price: $442.00 CAD
SAVE: LLBean Boat and Tote, Open Top / Price: $55.00 CAD
The Sarong
When it comes to a stylish cover-up or sarong, the market is definitely not lacking. My Instagram feed is PACKED with new ideas every day and admittedly, it’s tough not to stock up. When it comes to sarongs, I only keep a rotation of three to five – any more than this is a bit excessive and if you live in a cooler climate like myself, they spend all winter packed away in a box. My best advice – don’t go overboard in this department ladies.
Splurge: India Amory Cerulean Poppy Pareo / Price: $82.00 CAD
SAVE: Le Bazar Coastal Mellow Yellow Pareo / Price: $30.00 CAD
The Chair
Disclaimer: A towel functions just fine as a seating arrangement on the beach, as do the sling chairs from your local Costco wholesaler. With regard to “look” – I’ll always recommend a natural wood when it comes to beach chairs – they blend in nicely with your surroundings and they’re just as durable as metal – if not more-so. If you have small children however, I would not recommend a light colour in fabric as the juice stains will leave their mark for eternity.
Splurge: Serena & Lily Teak Beach Chair / Price: $388.00 CAD
SAVE: Folding Sling Chair Navy Stripe / Price: $69.50 CAD – seriously!
The Hat
If you haven’t noticed, the straw hat is becoming a summer wardrobe staple fairly quickly. These fashionable pieces also serve as great sun protection (for your skin & hair). If you’re hesitant to switch from a traditional ball cap, I’d start with a straw visor. When it comes to the straw hat – the choices are endless. I recommend starting with a “boater style” and adding to your collection from here. If you’re simply not a “hat” girl – that’s okay too!
Splurge: Ace of Something Natural White Boater / Price: $75.50 CAD
SAVE: MANGO Big Straw Hat / Price: $53.00 CAD
I hope these suggestions provide you with a point of departure for your next virtual shopping trip. As we’re quickly nearing mid-July, the sales will be ramping up so check your promotional emails often! If you’re headed straight from the beach to meet up with your social circle (COVID-19 sized), you must check out Rachel’s Five Summer Must-Haves to Revamp your Wardrobe.
Lastly, whether you’re splurging on your newest find or browsing for sales, always check out reviews by other buyers – I can’t stress this enough. Happy Shopping friends, and remember….caveat emptor…
