Toasty temperatures are back, and that means hours spent by the water. But for Dallas’ most fashionable, poolside and beach style is way more than just a swimsuit. Accessories and cover ups are becoming summer standouts and, perhaps, the new star of the show. And they’re making appearances well beyond the cabana.
We tapped La Vie Style House co-founder Lindsey McClain and Roller Rabbit’s chief product officer, Michelle Smyth, to get tips and inspiration for building that sought-after “just add water” summertime look.
The Swimsuit: How Many Pieces?
When it comes to bathing suits, each summer’s a tug-of-war for which style trend takes the lead. And although various styles have rivaled to be the favored silhouette—anyone want a tankini?—it always seems to end with bikinis and one-pieces battling it out. McClain says don’t make her choose.
“It’s like asking me to pick a favorite child, and I love both for different occasions,” McClain says. She opts for a one-piece or high-waisted bikini when running around with her sons. “We are constantly playing games or throwing the football, so those are usually my first pick.”
For more chill days, she goes for a bikini. “When I am relaxing and enjoying poolside cocktails, I love to wear bikinis from Hunza G and Julliet,” McClain says, noting Hunza G is a one-size brand that “gets it right.”
Try a reversible swimsuit, says Smyth, which will give you plenty of mix-and-match options and mitigate the chance of any repeat poolside looks. Plus, they’re a space saver when it comes to packing.
The Cover Up: Go for Bright Pops of Color
Although the swimsuit is the bedrock of a poolside look, the cover up really steals the show. This summer, try a caftan or a wrap, McClain says. Wraps might be the biggest trend she’s seeing this summer, and McClain exercises an equal-opportunity approach to all wraps: From pareos to dresses, she can’t get enough.
As for a splashy summer palette, McClain’s gravitating towards bright green, yellow, and hot pink. The more pigmented, she says, the better.
Smyth agrees. Bright retro florals are also making a prominent return. “This summer, we’re all about bright, bold colors, like hot pink, cherry reds, poppy corals, and electric turquoise,” she says. “Also, you can never go wrong with crisp, clean white linen.”
Don’t Forget the Accessories
Whether it’s a pair of shades, sandals, or headwear, both McClain and Smyth encourage accessories when completing your poolside look.
Smyth says large, crocheted totes are all the rage right now for catch-all bags—her summer must-have is Roller Rabbit’s Nyra bag. McClain echoes Smyth’s prompt for an oversized bag. She says she’s currently loving her Prada beach bag and all things from the Prada “Coast” Collection.
Both recommend a durable, and bendable, hat. McClain snagged a bucket hat early this season to have poolside all summer long. Meanwhile, Smyth’s a big fan of “packable products,” like a vented hat that won’t get damaged tucked away in a suitcase.
And when it comes to her footwear, Smyth opts for flat slides when frolicking around the pool. “I love wearing ones in metallics to add a fun and feminine touch to a simple silhouette,” she says.
McClain, on the other hand, is all about the height and prefers platforms. She rotates between two different summer favorites. “I love my Gucci platform clogs and the Prada rubber foam sandals,” she says. “They’re so fun, and a summer shoe must.”
Taking Your Poolside ’Fit from Day to Night
Whether you’re on vacation or right here in Dallas, when the sun sets, a summer evening on the town is a must. And a night out’s your chance to take creative liberties and elevate a poolside look for happy hour, McClain says. Her go-to trick is swapping out her jewelry and shoes, but still donning a caftan.
“You can completely transform a look by switching out your sandals for some fun heels and dainty poolside jewelry for funky, bold pieces,” McClain says.
And instead of going through the hassle of a blowout after a day in the sun, use what you already have. Try hair accessories instead of a new ’do to punctuate an evening poolside look, McClain says. She opts for one of La Vie’s hair clips or a headband to put the finishing flourish on her look.
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