When summer finally rolls around, I’m at my happiest. I love the heat and more than that… the sunshine! Getting dressed is just easier in the summer. No layers to worry about, no fussing with what goes over what. Just easy, breezy, and simple. A day spent by the ocean or pool is what I’m living for right now after the cold spring we’ve had. I know it’s coming and I’ll be ready.

There are so many beautiful swimsuit and accessory options to choose from right now. Bright stripes and bold patterns on swimsuits with matching cover-ups and totes big enough to carry everything you need for the day. I’ve pulled together two edits below… colorful, playful, and a little sun-washed. These are the pieces for long afternoons by the water, long leisurely lunches, and that golden hour walk back to the house when nobody wants the day to end. So…pour the rosé and stay a little longer.

I love an oversized towel that can be personalized, especially for the beach. There’s not much better than pulling a folding chair up to the water with a good book. And when it’s time for a little shade, you’ll love the colorful Shibumi Shade. I so wish I had come up with the idea! At Bald Head, the whole shoreline is lined with them. They’re easy to put up and great for kids, or for adults, who like to be by the water but not out in the sun.

The older I get, the more I love a good cover-up to throw over my swimsuit (this one has good bum coverage), along with a sun hat to keep the sun off my face. I’ll throw the cover-up (or sarong) on for lunch and feel totally put together. I also make sure to fill my bag with extra sunscreen to reapply throughout the day… Coola and the new one from Oak Essentials are two of my clean beauty favorites. And the flip flops from Tkees are hands down my faves.

I’ve ordered a swimsuit from Hunter Bell and one from Lemlem, and I cannot wait for them to arrive. I love the bold colors of the suits paired with a matching sarong. The look is so chic, and the sarong does double duty later when worn with a white blouse or a tee for a casual lunch or dinner.

It’s always a good idea to stay hydrated by the ocean, and these leakproof cups keep your drink cold and easy to carry. So load up your cute beach bag with all the necessities, throw in a good book (this one’s on my list), and enjoy summer by the water!

We’re headed to Bald Head Island in a couple of weeks and I’m so ready! I need some downtime, walks on the beach with the pups and time on the porch with a good book! Are you headed to the beach soon?

I hope you’ve enjoyed this post! Thanks so much for reading!

~XOXO Suzanne