“On the road again, Goin’ places that I’ve never been, Seein’ things that I may never see again, And I can’t wait to get on the road again!”
–Willie Nelson
I just can’t help but quote the lyrics of “On the Road Again.” This beloved song is a great source of inspiration for me, as who doesn’t love a good road trip? Having said that, many of us are now flying (once again) to our destinations, but regardless of the mode of transportation you choose, how you present while in transit is the same. In short, you want to be your chicest self.
Last year’s “Road Trip” series was such a hit, we knew you would want to enjoy them again this year—with updated shopping, of course! This week’s post is the first in a series focused on a few places we think you may want to visit this summer. So, if travel is on your agenda, you’re in the right place. Happy “tripping” whether you choose to fly or drive to your final destination!
ROAD TRIP NO. 1 – THE BEACH
This week’s road trip adventure takes us to the beach and our style focus is Beach Bum Chic! After all, what would summer be without at least one road trip that takes you to the beach?
Beach culture in the U.S. tends to be very casual and it has its own, specific look. This look is quite different from the “dressy chic” of beach and pool resort—a topic we will cover in our next Road Trip Adventure. For now, however, we’re going to focus on casual, “beach bum chic” and the culture around it. Having grown up on the beaches of Southern California, and later, spent extended time in Hawaii, I have studied this fun way to “beach” in detail.
BEACH BUM CHIC DEFINED
There are a number of elements to consider with this style of beach dressing, but one thing to always keep in mind is that everything is relaxed. T-shirts and tank tops, cut-offs, rubber flip flops, casual shift dresses, and almost anything “hippie bohemian” work to carry off this fun and relaxed approach to casual chic “beaching.”
SWIMWEAR
Let’s start with the obvious—swimwear. If you are a one-piece suit wearer the simple tank suit (reminiscent of the Bay Watch days) is a great way to go. It is simple and clean-cut, easy to wear, and comfy. This simple suit can be done in either bright colors or black. I’ve also included some adorable one-piece suits with great prints that seem very French to me. They are light, charming, and just plain fun!
I also love the Magicsuit and Miraclesuit swimwear; they are excellent in every way and oh-so-figure-flattering. The point to remember is that whatever one-piece suit you don, keep it casual, simple, and tasteful. You certainly can’t go wrong with any of the suits I’ve shopped for you below!
BIKINIS
When considering bikinis, you’re really going to want to keep “beach bum chic” top of mind as you’re putting your look together. As I have noted a number of times in past videos and blog posts, one of my favorite beach bum looks is the mixing and matching of tops and bottoms as opposed to having them match.
I am a huge fan of owning both black and white bikinis and mixing the tops and bottoms with coordinating but not matching pieces for fabulous beach bum chic looks. You’ll want to keep your matching sets for those times when you’re in more formal environs requiring a more sophisticated look. Regardless of which swim look you prefer, you want your beach bum suit to be understated, relaxed, and fun.
One quick note with regard to bikinis; I prefer triangle to bandeau tops as bandeau tops are more apt to accidentally slip off while you are frolicking in the waves. If you’re in a situation free from waves and an undertow, feel free to go with a bandeau top. Let’s just say I’m all for casual, but not for over-exposure! Just a helpful hint to ensure a more relaxed day.
COVER-UPS
Cover-ups are another element of Beach Bum Chic that you’ll want to adopt. This year I have included denim cut-offs which you’ll want to pair with a tank or t-shirt and black rubber flip-flops for true casual beach bum style.
Let’s be sure not to forget the light, flowy shifts, sarongs paired with a white t-shirt or tank, and even beach pants, all of which are perfect for covering up. Pair any of these looks with rubber flip-flops as this look is flattering to the leg and practically makes you a local at whichever coast or beach you are on.
SHOES & ACCESSORIES
Shoes, bags, AND hats are all lovely necessities for completing your beach bum look.
For shoes, I have included a number of slides and flip flops as well as a vintage-looking, Converse-style sneaker and even an espadrille sneaker. All of these options are incredible with cut-offs, however, I would do flip flops with the shifts as they are more flattering to your leg when wearing a dress.
I’ve also shopped some casual, fun hats (a definite necessity) as well as a number of fabulous totes. Everything you’ll need is right here!
What we’ve featured here are all perfect casual chic pieces for your beach bum road trip. So, have fun shopping!
And as an added bonus, the focus of this week’s Fashion Friday video is Beach Bum Chic, so be sure to check us out on Facebook Live at 1 PM. And, as always, we’ll be sharing more ideas and even do a little bit of show and tell on Instagram.
Next on the Road Trip Adventure Agenda—
Beach & Pool Resort!
Be sure to check in next week for even more beachwear treasures—and we’ll be taking it up to the next level of chic!
PSSST! Looking for more spring and summer shopping? Check out some of our other recent posts!
• Five Easy Pieces: Tips and Guidelines for Casual Dressing
• The Essential Travel Tote: Why You Need One
• The Art of Stylish, Comfy Travel – A True Game-Changer!
