Dear Isabella,

This summer heat is kicking in and I’ve just got to hit the beach ASAP but I have no idea what’s in this year for beach wear. HELP! I want to look A+ this year (and I’ve been working on my beach bod!). What bathing suits, handbags, and flip-flops are must haves this swimming season?

Thanks so much!
Tanya

Hey Tanya,

Thanks for your letter! For the last couple of weeks I`ve totally been gearing up for some serious beach relaxation myself, so I`m glad to say that I`m in a great position to give you all the goods on the best 2011 Beach Season trends.

Of course, the best thing about beachwear is that you get to wear COLOR. Nowhere else are we encouraged to sport such a vibrant, happy, and refreshing palette. So, when selecting a bathing suit, remember that the he two-piece still rules the beach and that you have full license to wear whatever vibrant colors your heart desires. I`m digging this gorgeous purple suit with darling teal “tusk” zippers. It has a refined tropical elegant feel.

Then again, you really can`t go wrong with variations on citrus – orange, lemon, lime. That way you can match the refreshing beverages you`ll be enjoying as you lounge in luxury!

And, if you`re not feeling the all-out solid color burst, you can start from a neutral backdrop of navy, black or white and add a subtle dash of color in the print. Floral prints are in big time this year and I`m loving this sophisticated bikini.

Ok, so now that you`ve got your sexy two-piece, it`s time to accessorize. First, grab a light blouse to drape over yourself. I keep it classic in white since it keeps me cool AND allows for a hint of my spectacularly colored bathing suit top underneath. I like a pair of short denim shorts for a sexy casual feel.

There are three rules to keep in mind when choosing the perfect beach bag:
1. Keep it colourful
2. Keep it casual
3. Keep it fun
The beach is not the place for you to pull out your Chanel Quilted or LV Monogram bags – you will just look like you`re trying too hard if you do that. This year I`m rocking this replica Bottega Veneta Woven Ostrich Bag in Pink. It`s the perfect size for me to carry all the little things I need for an afternoon on the beach. I got mine here

Lastly, you`ve got to find the right footwear. Your goal here is to balance comfort and casual with a touch of grace. I love this Juicy Couture flops. They have that classic Juicy playfulness with a dose of luxuriousness for good measure.

Oh yeah, and don`t forget the refreshments!!!!

Hope this helps, Tanya, and let me know what look you choose!!

Xo
Isabella