SUN. SAND. SURF.

Beach life really is the best. Though I don’t make it to the California coastline as much as I’d like, this summer I’m vowing to make more of an effort to soak up the seaside rays. Plus, I love any opportunity to break out stylish new swimsuits, airy cover-ups and all the beach-ready pieces that see more of my closet than they do sunshine. I’m sharing some of my favorite beach-chic essentials and also how to properly care for, and store them.

Swimsuit

Marysia Swim Palm Springs Laser Cut Maillot: This feminine one-piece is sure to make a splash this summer. The scalloped edges and laser cut details uniquely elevate seaside style. Plus, it’s super flattering!

Storage tip: File your swimsuits instead of folding. This way, you can see all your pieces in the drawer without having to dig through tangled two-pieces!

Cover-up

Madewell Belize Cover-Up Dress: The ideal cover-up to me is one that looks like a real piece of clothing and this floaty dress is just that. I can see myself going from brunch to beach comfortably in this breezy beauty.

Storage tip: Create a separate section in your closet for beachwear and packable cover-ups, to make for easy summer packing and travel!

Hat

Eugenia Kim Sunny Do Not Disturb Hat: If a hat blocks the harmful rays and also makes a style statement, I’m all for it. Get ready for a major Instagram moment with this whimsical, head-turning hat. I’m not sure sitting by the sea has ever looked better.

Storage tip: Store hats somewhere low in your closet! Rather than sticking them high on a shelf, you'll be more likely to wear them if you have them on hooks or in cubbies at an easily accessible level.

Towel 

Zimmermann Turkish Towel & Leather Carry: This beach towel looks more like a chic throw than an offensive towel, and has the most beautiful leather carrying strap. Schlepping to find the perfect beach seat will be a touch more glamorous this summer.

Storage tip: A towel with a carrier like this is great, as it can be stored on a purse hook, shelf, or in a drawer!

Tote

Sophie Anderson Adorada Circle Straw Bag: Versatility in a bag is key for me and this tote is so much more than a basic beach bag. The sophisticated shape, classic colors and playful pompoms are the formula for a cute carry-all.

Storage tip: Care for your bigger bags by making sure they're properly stuffed! Never flatten or fold a bag when you stow it in your closet - this can cause creases and cracks, and your tote will never be the same.

Extras!

Don’t forget SPF (I’m liking Shiseido Ultimate Sun Protection Lotion SPF 50+ WetForce) and a good beach read (next up for me: Material Girl, Mystical World because “a closetful of designer shoes can happily coexist with a deeply meaningful life”).