Your Guide to Summer Beach Fashion 2017/18

Each year, we consume ourselves with keeping up with the latest summer, spring, winter and autumn fashion trends. This summer, we’ve fallen in love with stripes, sneakers, and artistically inspired athletic wear, and we’ve fallen out of love with thrasher tees, poorly destroyed denim, and choker necklaces. It’s a lot to keep up with, especially when you consider specific activities too.
 
Let’s take, the beach. The beach is a specific summertime activity that too has its trends that come and go. Yes the beach should be about having fun, but don’t you want to look good when having that fun? Of course you do!
 
Last year we were loving bongage-style swimwear but this year, they’re not on the summer party entry list. Nor is flower-adorned hair, bucket hats or under-the-sea inspired handbags.
 
So what is? What are the key items to be beach ready this summer and where can you get them?
 
Let’s take a look…

What to wear this summer

Swimwear

When you think swimwear this summer, think as far out of the box as you can go. Never mind the crazy tan lines you might get, this year’s swimwear trends are all about cut outs, one shoulder and knotted swimsuits – check out Sofia Vergara’s palm print cut-out suit from Agua Bendita, or Emily Ratajkowski’s turquoise bikini.
 
High-waisted bikinis are still proving popular too, as are scoop back one pieces, gingham print, and ruffles. Sunburn Swimwear and Beach n Beyond stock them all.

Kaftan

While the right swimwear is important, it’s also important to cover up from the sun, especially during the middle parts of the day. A classic cotton sundress is one way to do this, but these days it’s a lot more on trend to cover with a kaftan.
 
The kaftan is the summer equivalent of a knitted pullover for winter. It hides the lumps and bumps of Christmas overindulgence and can be dressed up or down with accessories. It’s the ultimate beach comfort wear that won’t look out of place on the street and you’ll find all the styles you need at Esteem’s Boutique and Ritzi Boutique.

Oversized men’s shirt

An alternative cover up to the kaftan is an oversized men’s shirt, which you can pick up from Coolangatta Menswear (or your partner’s closet). Opt for a denim shirt or a shirt with stripes, slip on some Birkenstocks and grab a canvas tote bag and you’ve got yourself one of the hottest beach looks for 2017.

Sunglasses

Most likely you have your “go-to” pair of sunnies that you can’t live without, but if you want to up your game this summer, then check out some of this year’s trends. Nothing refreshes a summer look more than a different pair of statement shades. This year’s favourite styles include retro oversized aviators, cat-eye sunglasses and round sunglasses. You can find all the favourites from brands like Ray Ban, Oakley, Maui Jim and Le Specs at Just Sunnies.

Beach bag

Beach totes scream good summer vibes and sunshine and they are great for throwing everything in on the run. This year the on-trend beach bag is the extra large one, and we’ve been seeing lots of straw bags adorned with tassels or pompoms as well as classic striped canvas totes. The key is to look for quality, and a bag that offers sturdy straps and a pocket or two for things like small change and keys. Beach n Beyond stocks a good range, or check out Boo Boo’s and Sabah Lifestyle.

Shoes

Summer shoes are a lot of fun and it pays to have a range of different styles to suit the occasion. Thongs, slides, and simple sandals are great when heading to the beach, but if you’re planning on going for lunch after a swim, why not throw a pair of espadrilles or ballet flats in your bag? Pop your head into Sole Integrity, Shoe Rack or Ritzi and grab a pair today.

Jewellery

Just because you’re headed to the beach or pool doesn’t mean you should be without a bit of bling. From pendant necklaces to statement hoops, jewellery can completely transform your beach look, adding personality and glamour to take you from the sand to the beachside bar. Inspired by the Gold Coast’s endless summer, white sandy beaches, and pristine blue ocean, Saltwater Silver captures the magic of the local region to offer original, unique, handmade jewellery. All items are made on site and silversmith and store owner Sarah Roth can even work with you to create something that’s uniquely you.

Hat

Considering the sun’s damaging effects, we don’t wear sunhats enough. It’s a shame too, as a good hat can take your beach outfit to the next level. This year’s summer hat trends include big brimmed, tennis-like and striped straw hats, as well as super floppy hats, boater sun hats, and colour blocking cotton hats. If you’re not sure which style will suit you, visit Moelleux or Stock and Supply and try some on.

Towel

Get your 100% Turkish Cotton Towels at Sun and Sea. You;ll find an ocean of colours and sizes to choose from and they also make a perfect gift!

Preparing for summer

With the right get up, you can have the best summer you’ve ever had thanks to The Strand Coolangatta. Start your summer by shopping for everything you need and then all that’s left to do is to have fun in the sun in style. Coolangatta is a beach lover’s paradise, so get prepared and start enjoying everything that’s on offer.