'Easy, Breezy, Beautiful Cover-Up'

Tanning lotion? Check. Straw-brim hat? Check. Caftan, tunic, maxi dress, robe and sarong? All check.

With a variety of cover-ups in punchy colors and flattering shapes dominating the swimwear market, the bikini is at the bottom of everyone’s vacation packing list.

But cover-ups are. Why?

Maybe because this season’s swimwear cover-ups can be sexy, yet comfortable – sheer, yet versatile. The bathing suit can stay on while you explore the beach resort, dine with friends at a seaside café, or venture round the cruise ship.

An oversized T-shirt and bath towel do not have that same kind of staying power.

You can find cover-ups in fabrics that range from a delicate silk or chiffon to a lasting jersey or crocheted cotton. The purpose of the cover-up is to not only compliment the color and cut of the suit, but to play up the little bit of bathing suit showing underneath.

A frilly cover-up like this one from Aspara resembles one of my own favorites, which I bought from a Zara during a trip to Toulouse, France. The silk top’s blue paisley print against a sheer white background instantly drew my attention. The blouse had balloon sleeves, grazing my wrists in a torrent of ruffles. I typically stay away from most ruffled numbers, but after trying it on I had to have it.

Another kimono-style cover-up finds its way into my luggage whenever I make my yearly pit stop to Miami’s South Beach. The draping of the Japanese-inspired dress creates long, elegant lines along the body. Similar to LaBlanca’s pink version, my white dress molded perfectly to my body. Yet, it was far too transparent to wear casually. But when worn over a bikini at the beach, I no longer felt self-conscious.

The maxi dress in solid or prints is this summer’s biggest hit. The dress is flattering on most shapes, with the only longstanding question being whether you prefer spaghetti strap, halter, or cross-back. No need to worry about finding the perfect strapless bra here. Although, I do suggest that if you’re petite: Stay away from heavy fabrics and opt for a sheer dress like this one at Tucker Paisley.

You’ll find that with so many swimwear options, packing for summer vacation was never such a breeze.

-S. Gonzalez

*Photos courtesy of wwd.com

'Life Is A Beach'

A salt-covered breeze. The feeling of sand crunching under the weight of my feet. And the rising pitch of seagulls fighting over their next funnel cake lunch.

Each summer, these small delights are reserved for the few weekends that I manage to escape the crushing city life. While I start the countdown to my next getaway, those with summer homes have already started theirs.

For those with summer homes, the boards have come down from the windows. The last strokes of fresh white paint have dried on the deck. Duvets and pillow covers have been washed, pressed and fitted to the beds.

The overall maintenance of the house has been inspected and scheduled for repairs. Yet, many overlook the décor – essential in ensuring a pleasant and memorable stay.

With a selection of natural, organic fixtures and quirky accents, make your home as inviting as the ocean. Charm guests with sea turtle coat hooks, or entertain your friends with salt and pepper shakers shaped like lobster claws.

Get swept away with the following finds:

Made of seashells, starfish and conches, a wreath is the best way to welcome those into your new home. Plus, it sets the tone for the duration of their visit (above left). Crafty? Spend a few minutes combing the beach for seashells and create a wreath together with friends and family.

Shine a little light in your home after hours. Take a decorative night light (bottom left) in the shape of a fish or a crab, for example, and avoid fumbling in the entrance for the light switch after a night out on the boardwalk.

The only way to create dimension and interest in décor is through opting for bold purchases like a lighthouse-styled cabana floor fan. Integrating organic elements like a sea-urchin table lamp is another way to do it.

Born to a family of jewelry designers and seamstresses, I don’t have to look very far for bracelets and necklaces. My favorite pieces of jewelry are those with coral for the summer: a brick red necklace bought in Peru; another in a sea blue made by my mother; and the last bought in an atelier from a Parisian designer in a Le Marais atelier. Coral is just as stunning on a person as it is in the home. Hand painted red coral serving trays are just the beginning.

Go green! Avoid settling on a beach chair in the typical all-white or nautical navy blue. When replacing your outdoor beach furniture, go for a more unexpected color. Go for a lime green rocker made of southern pine. The lumber comes from a renewable supplier and is both insect and rot resistant. Get ready to rock and roll!

This summer is bound to be a hot one.

-S. Gonzalez

*Photos courtesy of laurensaccone.files.wordpress.com; decorinnovation.com; coastaldecorshop.com