Bohemian styles might evoke lazy days at the beach, but MORE’s savvy fashion team knows just the right accessories to take a certain look from beachy keen to seriously stylish.
Dip-dyed linen is a summer staple. Delicate touches, like twisted straps, give a hint of sophistication, while side-shirring ensures it won’t be mistaken for a shapeless beach cover-up.
Ralph Lauren Blue Label dress, $398; ralphlauren.com
Dress up sun-kissed skin and beachy locks with sparkling chandelier earrings. Basics plus bling is a winning combination.
R.J. Graziano chandelier earrings, $51; bluefly.com
Is your summer sandal vocabulary limited to the flip-flop variety? Try a more sophisticated version that keeps it beachy with tan leather and textured gold fabric.
BCBGirls heels, $59.39; heels.com
Botanical greens and blues anchor this draped design, perfectly polished but just a little undone.
Diane Von Furstenberg dress, $465; saksfifthavenue.com
Wooden heels are surprisingly easy to match. Throw them on with a standard sundress or let them temper a previously professional look.
Nine West heels, $89; ninewest.com
Casual maxi dresses stay in our closets for a specific reason: They flatter up top while hiding problem areas down below.
C&C California dress, $148; dillards.com
Vacation-staple sundresses often don’t translate into real life. A down-to-there hemline will make even the most cheerful frock seem a little more serious.
Diane Von Furstenberg dress, $465; saksfifthavenue.com
Braided flats in fiery hues will remind you of sun-soaked afternoons-even when they’re worn with slim slacks around town.
Kate Spade sandal, $225; katespade.com
This LBD (*long*, that is, not little) is perfect for throwing over a bathing suit. Wear it bikini-free by adding on vibrant accessories.
JCPenney dress, $80; jcpenney.com
Formerly sun-soaked materials, like this woven python combo, have gone mainstream. What’s next, mai tais with dinner?
Rachel Rachel Roy clutch, $79; macys.com
How to keep a framed bag from feeling too stuffy or old-fashioned? With embossed, Machu Picchu-style leather, of course.
Topshop bag, $70; topshop.com
*READ LAUREN’S INTERVIEW*
Take our word for it and head to the shore wearing brightly colored and comfortable clothes with fun— even exotic— accessories. When heading back to town later, tinker with your beach chic to get your look just right for a sophisticated summer night soiree.