Now that summer is offically upon us, is your wardrobe “beach ready?” Prior to the start of the season, Melissa gave us a little tutorial on suits that work best for each body type, and the essential accessories needed to enjoy your time at the beach, without any fashion hiccups. Refresh your memory with Melissa’s tips below, then check your own beach wardrobe to see how it measures up. 

It is important that you at least have the essentials at the beginning of the beach season and then you can add elements to your beach wardrobe as you go. I thought that I would help you out to ensure that you have the key pieces to make sure that your styling—even at the beach.

Remember you don’t need to break the budget when dressing for the beach; it is important to pick pieces that work with one another, and always pick pieces that compliment and flatter you. It doesn’t matter if skimpy bikinis are in—choose what fits your body type rather then what fits the trends.

– If you have a smaller bust, bandeau tops work well along with triangle tops.

– When it comes to a fuller bust, always stick to larger straps; they tend to support you better.

– If you are someone who has a curvy figure, you will want to stick with solid bottoms and higher leg.

– If you have more of boyish figure, a boy brief or boy short tends to give you curves that you don’t normally have.

– If you have a fuller thigh stay away from boy shorts, a lot people have the misconception that a fuller bottom is better, but it actually make you look bigger.

(Photo: Teal fringe bikini from Urban Outfitters.) 

Going to the beach consists of more than just having the right bathing suit; you need to have the right accessories too! My five favorite ‘beach bound’ pieces that I wont leave home with out are listed below:

1. A Great Beach Towel

You can choose a luxe towel like, Louie Vuttion or Missoni, but if you don’t want to break the bank, check out H & M or KOHLS. They have some awesome ‘fashion’ towels that will be sure to satisfy any fashionista! (Photo: VIP Parking towel from Target.)
2. SUN BLOCK!

The #1 key element to looking great for the summer is good skin. Keep the sunburn away!
3. A Great Beach Bag

This doesn’t have to be your traditional beach bag, just make sure that it is nothing that you wouldn’t want to get ruined. You never know what can happen at the beach.
4. A Cool Beach Hat or Scarf

A fedora or a larger floppy are always a perfect choice. This season scarves and turbans will also cure unruly beach hair! (Photo: Pink headband by Free People.)
5.  A Cute Pair of Wedges

You never know when your BFF is going to text you to meet her for a drink a your local beach hot spot. Be prepared so you feel fabulous, wearing wedges makes you look instantly chic! (Photo: Wedge heels from South Moon Under.)

Fashionably Yours,

Melissa