Weekend Water Warrior

June 15th, 2015

Summer is here and you’ve been invited to the lake or beach for a weekend! Woohoo! Both venues have their own elements to contend with, but what to wear on and around the water and how to stay pretty and fresh after a day of surf and sun is the same. Be prepared for any invite with this simple guide.

Overnight Bag

Bathing suit, cover-up and hat, flip-flops or boat shoes. Shorts, shirt, casual linen or cotton dress, light sweater, sandals, pajamas, and simple jewelry.

Show up in simple shorts or a casual sundress. Pick a swimsuit that is activity friendly, a two-piece with straps and tight bottoms or a strapped one-piece. The waves and water sports can be less than forgiving on a loose swimsuit, so be prepared and avoid a wardrobe malfunction. Bring simple waterproof flip-flops or Sperry boat shoes for walking on sand, boats or docks. You can throw on a coverup or shorts for board walking or lakeside lunching.

For evening, a jumpsuit or maxi dress is ideal for a quick change. Pair it with simple sandals, like Jack Rogers, and you are ready for a night out on the town or dinner on the deck. Remember: Flats are usually best, as heels on boat docks and beaches are seldom comfortable. A hat and simple jewelry can also tie your look together.

Cosmetic Bag

Don’t bring or wear a lot of make-up! The surf and sun are not makeup friendly. Not to mention a full face of make up is not appropriate or sustainable in the heat or water. Mimi and Mademoiselle have always followed a simple and effective strategy much like the expert Bobbi Brown’s recommendation: “Summer makeup should be easy and quick. Keep your routine simple with a tinted moisturizer with SPF, concealer, lip gloss, blush, eyeliner and mascara.” There are lots of waterproof options so find those that give you a simple sun kissed look.

Beach Bag

Towel, cover-up, sunscreen, lip gloss, aprés sun moisturizer or aloe, hat (we recommend a Helen Kaminsky Newport Standard), hair ties or headband, sunglasses w/Croakies or strap, brush, tissue, cash, Ziplock bag or waterproof carrier for your phone and money.

If it is long day on the boat you may want to stash dry undergarments. You will be the smart one on the long boat ride back if you can slip out of your wet suit and into a dry outfit. The night air can be chilly!