As the temperatures rise and the air grows heavy with humidity, beach days get closer and closer. If you’re lucky, you’ll have an abundance of beach days this summer. But for some of us, it’s one and done. Whether you’re a card-carrying beach bunny in a linen bathing suit cover-up or attempting to squeeze in a beach day in between work and more work, you need to be ready for sun, sand, and Instagram posts galore. From breathable cotton voile to UV Protective Tricots, there’s plenty of summer fabrics that are ideal for a beachside picnic. Let’s take a look at the top trends for this beach season, and how to implement those styles for the perfect post!
The Leg Slit
The leg slit, made popular on the red carpet, has finally creeped back onto the runway. Burberry sports a thigh-high leg slit on a gorgeous black dress, while Camilla and Marc create a dress with several leg slits that start at midthigh. Chanel utilizing smaller leg slits on a pair of simple trousers, and Louis Vuitton shows a knee-length skirt with a slit up the middle.
Almost any fashion weight fabric can handle a leg slit, but for a dramatic silhouette, we recommend chiffon or voile. Utilize polyester satins for a garment that can handle a day in the sun and sand, or opt for a mesh for the perfect swimsuit coverup!
The Mini Dress
The minidress ends around mid-thigh, or above it, the perfect piece for summer. Alberta Ferretti’s suede dress features well-placed grommets and Burberry’s octopus print that demands attention. Chanel’s simple shirt dress is paired perfectly with a scholarly cardigan, while Dsquared2’s knit mini dress is straight up glam-grandma, and I love it!
A summer mini dress should be made of something breathable, like a cotton poplin or medium-weight linen, both excellent options for giving a beachy vibe. Check out braided trim for giving an added “oomphf” to a simple mini dress, or even a feather fringe!
The One-Piece
There’s no beach day without a bathing suit! The classic one-piece is popular as ever, shown off with Chanel’s lovely single-shouldered style. Chromat creates a lovely silhouette with a zipper down the front, while Cynthia Rowley shows off the newly-popular long-sleeve style. Zimmermann’s deep v bathing suit features a lovely butterfly belt, perfect for a weekend getaway or week-long staycation.
Boldly printed tricots are an excellent option for jazzing up a simple one piece or create a monokini with a deep v neck that features a golden accent across the chest. Check out the Abelia Swimsuit for Mood’s take on the latest swimsuit trends, or the Swimwear Patterns for everything from classic styles to modern silhouettes!
The Sheer Sectional
Although I’m a fan of the popular sheer trend, it can be tough to pull off. For this resort season, it seems to have evolved into sheer sections layered with opacity, making it a much more PG style. Alberta Ferretti shows off a sheer neckline in navy, with some lacy layers on the skirt, while Dsquared2 layers a beautifully ruffled shawl over a basic tee and pair of shorts. Louis Vuitton layers a glittering mesh over a pencil skirt and bandeau top, and Tory Burch utilizes sheer sleeves and skirt for the perfect summer dress.
Both lace and tulle will provide the most translucency, while embroidered fabric will provide pockets of opacity throughout the mostly sheer background. Utilize polyester chiffon for a strikingly sturdy fabric that’s mostly sheer, or certain lightweight linens.
The Two Piece
The two-piece is the perfect alternative to, well, the one-piece! Whether you’re straight- or plus- sized, the bikini has got you covered! Etro’s high-waisted ensemble has a nice sporty vibe to it, while Marysia’s has a more dainty vibe to it. Norma Kamali shows off a strappy and striking high-hipped bikini, and Prism’s one-shoulder silhouette is simple and sleek!
Tricots are the best bathing suit material, along with neoprene/scuba knits. You can utilize different closures and trims to make each bathing suit unique, or add mesh paneling for a pop of that sheer style.
What are you wearing to the beach this season? You can spot me in a high-waisted bikini, paired with a sheer mini dress and a margarita- with salt and lime, of course! Let me know what you think in the comments!
