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Fashion Must-Haves for a Beach Vacation

This article is written by a student writer from the Her Campus at Carleton chapter.

            Salty air, beach hair, and sand in your toes. Definitely not the things that you will find at -30°C in Ottawa, but fear not: reading week is less than three weeks away! Whether you are jetting off to somewhere warm or simply dreaming of walks on the beach in the summer, there are style essentials for a seaside vacation that every woman needs. Escape for a minute or two from the cold and find some fashion inspiration for your reading week getaway. From stylish sunglasses to studded sandals, even the seagulls will be jealous!

(Links to the items are at the bottom of the page.)

The Bold Bathing Suit

You will stand out in the sea of plain bathing suits with this colourful, graphic bikini. The bold print makes this retro silhouette modern again (and so fashionable). Plus, the bustier top and high-waisted bottoms are perfect for every body type. The sun won’t be the only thing that is sizzling!

 

The Wide-Brimmed Sun Protector

          Quick fact: did you know that your scalp can get sunburned? 30 SPF may protect your skin from the sun’s rays, but the ends of your hair can get damaged, too. Keep your strands silky and scalp healthy with a big, floppy sun hat. The wide brim will protect your face and the camel colour will match with any bathing suit you choose. Practical and fashionable: check.

The Breezy Cover Up

When you have just come out of the pool from a relaxing swim and your friends want you to do an ice cream run with them, throw on this lightweight cover up over your bikini and you will be good to go! It will also keep you nice and warm even when the sun starts to set. Much more stylish than a boring towel from the hotel!

The Tortoise Shell Sunnies

Grace Kelly, is that you? There is no better way to protect your eyes from harmful rays than with these elegant specs. A pair of stylish sunglasses is a beach essential. Slip on a tortoise shell pair and you will be channeling your inner 1950’s beach babe in no time. The tinted lenses are perfect for secretly scoping the cuties on the beach too. Bonus!

The Colour-Blocked Maxi Dress

This maxi dress is a staple for every packing list. With its breezy fabric and unique colour-blocked detailing, this one-step outfit is the definition of effortless style. Pair the figure-flattering number with some cork wedges and you will be ready for a post-beach dinner. Just be prepared for all of the jaws that will be dropping as you strut into the restaurant.

The Nautical Tote

Switch out your canvas grocery bag with this nautical tote for all of your beach essentials. This over-the-shoulder striped bag will fit your water bottle, flip-flops, magazines, sunscreen and snacks. Navy and white are classic colours that will match with every outfit for your trip. Also, how cute is the rope handle? All aboard for this adorable carry-all.

The Bright Beaded Necklace

            Brighten up any vacation ensemble with these beaded necklaces. Bohemian meets bold in these multi-strand pieces. Not only will they look fabulous with the colour-blocked maxi dress but also with your statement bikini. If you’re feeling very daring, layer the two together for maximum impact!

 

            If this doesn’t scream beach chic then I don’t know what does! These adorable basket weave slip-ons are perfect for a quick walk around town or an oceanfront visit at night. They are made out of leather, so your feet will be totally comfortable. These classic flats can be brought out time and time again because they won’t be going out of style anytime soon.

 

The Comfy Tank and Shorts

 

 

            Every girl needs a pair of flow-y patterned shorts for her beach vacation. They are like wearing pajamas, which is always a plus! Black and white is a huge trend for Spring 2015 and it will be an essential in your closet all year long. Pair them with a plain tank and a statement necklace and it will take the look from average to outstanding!

 

 

 

 

Pic sources:

http://www.urbanoutfitters.com/urban/catalog/productdetail.jsp?id=33677824&parentid=W-SUNACC#/

 

http://shop.nordstrom.com/s/j-valdi-shadow-stripe-cover-up-tunic/3909279?origin=category-personalizedsort&contextualcategoryid=0&fashionColor=&resultback=1260

 

http://www.urbanoutfitters.com/urban/catalog/productdetail.jsp?id=34635433&parentid=W-SUNSHOP&color=020#/

http://www.forever21.com/shop/ca/en/p/beach-vibes-maxi-dress-2000107577–1001

http://www.scoopnyc.com/nautical-striped-canvas-rope-tote.html?source=pepperjam&publisherId=20648&clickId=1181700622

http://www.asos.com/Dune/Dune-Natallie-Embellished-Flat-Sandals/Prod/pgeproduct.aspx?iid=4819834&cid=6458&sh=0&pge=0&pgesize=36&sort=-1&clr=Nude&totalstyles=118&gridsize=3

http://www.urbanoutfitters.com/urban/catalog/productdetail.jsp?id=26677773&parentid=W-SUNSHOP&color=012#/

http://www.urbanoutfitters.com/urban/catalog/productdetail.jsp?id=33966508&parentid=W-SUNSANDALS#/

http://www.forever21.com/shop/ca/en/women-bottom-shorts/p/woven-printed-shorts-2000122440–1001

 

 

 

 

 

 

Victoria is a first year journalism student at Carleton University. Her dream is to become a fashion journalist in a big city. Paris, anyone? She is a bi-weekly fashion writer who is very excited to be publishing fun and helpful articles that will (hopefully) put a smile on your face and give you some style inspiration. Victoria has a healthy shoe obsession, loves anything mint chocolate and is looking forward to her 3 1/2 years ahead at university! Enjoy!