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  • Issue No. 259
  • Icons Guide

Your Ultimate Beach Capsule Wardrobe

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Beach season is here! Whether you’re set for a trip to foreign shores or simply heading to your nearest coast for the day, perfecting your beach capsule wardrobe is an essential part of summer preparation. Including everything from packable hats to the clever cover-up you’ve probably already got hanging in your wardrobe, Polly Knight’s eight-step guide will ensure you’re beach-ready.

The Trusted Basket Bag
There really is only one bag you need for the beach. The beauty of a basket bag is its ability to fit seamlessly into any outfit – from oversized summer tailoring to feminine summer dresses – but it really does look most at home by the sea. If you need a more capacious version to carry everything from towels to sun cream, look for longer straps that can be worn over the shoulder. For an investment that will last a lifetime, we can’t recommend Loewe’s numerous versions enough.
The Alternative Beach Cover-up
As we often say, versatility is essential when it comes to buying pieces that you’ll wear endlessly. That’s why a linen shirt is a must-have component of our summer wardrobe. We love an oversized version as the ideal beach cover-up – we’d much rather spend on a great-quality one that will serve us in all sorts of scenarios than a beach-specific cover-up like a kaftan, which only has one use. The most appealing fabric of the summer, linen is timeless and breathable, adding a lightness to whatever it’s matched with.
A Suits-Everyone Tiered Dress
Tiered dresses come back around every summer. Why? Because they are universally flattering, comfortable and so easy to wear. In fact, they’re the only dresses we’d consider wearing to the beach, thanks to their breezy, voluminous silhouette. Australian brand Matteau is an expert at creating versions that look beautifully feminine but never fussy.
Beachy Jewellery
Beaded jewellery and warm yellow gold are perfect for sun-drenched days at the beach and offer a more bohemian vibe than more formal jewellery. Milne Watson’s handcrafted beaded necklaces can be customised to include worlds or initials that are close to your heart, while Alighieri’s gold-plated pieces have a bold, sculptural feel that works well with swimwear and floaty, beach-ready clothing.
Classic Sunglasses
If sunglasses have always been something of an afterthought for you, this is your sign to make a change. The right pair are a worthy investment. Take your time and shop around, try on as many pairs as you can to work out which style suits your face shape, and which frame colour works for you and your wardrobe. Get it right, and you’ll wonder how you ever managed without them.
Wear-Everywhere Leather Sandals
There’s no better feeling than packing away your boots and trainers and dusting off your sandals. Few other shoes have the same wear-with-anything qualities. Having a great leather pair is key – they’re hardwearing and can withstand sea and sand (as well as pavement pounding). Tan leather is always a good idea – it goes with everything – but cream and black are great options, too. When it comes to type, that’s down to you and what works best with your style – be it a classic Birkenstock Arizona or something daintier with a slim sole.
The Easy-To-Pack Hat
Big straw hats are undeniably chic, but they’re a nightmare to pack. For the beach, you want soft styles that can be easily folded; think classic baseballs caps, bucket hats and fisherman styles. With its subtle logo, Totême’s beige cap is the ultimate in quiet luxury, while ARKET’s floppy-brimmed crochet bucket hat is effortlessly elegant.
Swimsuit With A Twist
Swimwear shopping can be a daunting prospect, but one great swimsuit is all you really need. Our advice? Look for a classic one-piece with a twist, like flattering ruching, practical long sleeves or subtle lace-up detailing. Comfort should be your priority – a day at the beach should be relaxing, not uncomfortable – so think about what you actually want from your swimsuit. Do you need support in certain areas? What strap style do you prefer? What level of coverage do you like? What neckline is most flattering on you? Approach it like you would any other piece you want to love and wear forever, and you can’t go wrong.