Packing your perfect beach bag

Having fun in the sun is a basic element of summer, and the beach provides a great place to do that.

On a beach’s shoreline, you can dig your toes in the sand and feel waves’ mist on your skin. And, with the right wardrobe, you can look fabulous while doing it. The nature of the beach requires its own wardrobe, separate from what you’d wear for a walk in the park or strutting your style in the city. Therefore, it’s crucial that you put some thought into what clothes you’ll pack in your beach bag. Follow this checklist for making your day at the beach chic and comfortable:

Palazzo pants

Airy and light with just enough coverage, donning a pair of palazzo pants will allow you to safely wander to the snack bar without feeling too bare. The lightweight material and flowing style lets air flow through to cool you down, and it can easily slide over any swimsuit. The unique styles and colors make these pants a summer show-stopper, so go with bold stripes or earth-toned paisley – anything that will showcase your personality.

Floppy sun hat

Not only will this oversized accessory make you a style icon in the sand, but it will also protect your face from the sun’s harmful UV rays. Extending out on alls ides, the floppy sun hat provides ample shade to keep you cool, safe and comfortable. Plus, the wider brim will draw attention away from your body and toward your face, which will bring a sigh of relief for those anxious about wearing a swimsuit. However, it’s no substitute for sunscreen. According to the American Academy of Dermatology, you should always wear sunscreen with broad-spectrum protection and an SPF of at least 30.

Sunglasses

A summer accessory essential, don’t leave the house without your sunglasses, especially when heading to the beach. Sunglasses will protect your eyes from the sun’s UV rays and keep you from getting a headache from staring at the blaring light all day. Plus, they’ll block sand from blowing into your eyes on breezy days. This way, you can hide your closed eyes when you take a snooze in the sun, or you can easily read your favorite romance novel while lounging in the sand.

Sandals

While you may be going barefoot on the white sand, you don’t want to walk anywhere else without a pair of breathable sandals. If you have to walk from your car to the shore or from the beach to the snack bar, you don’t want to worry about stepping on little pebbles or melted ice cream. Though wedges are typically the go-to style for summer, stick to flats for the beach. The uneven sand will be easier to manage. Go with a thong sandal or something with a similar, simple style. This way, you can easily slip them on and off, and sand won’t get caught in the shoe.

Next time you head out to the beach, make sure you have these essentials with you. With the right fashion choices, you can stay cool, casual and chic.