Long-gone are the days of layers and snow boots. Thankfully, the season of bathing suits and tan lines is upon us. Before heading east or jetting off to an island for sand in between our toes, there are a few necessities to ensure a peaceful time at the beach. Pack these products for the perfect day of sea and sun.
1. Palm Beach Towel
Wipe away water and lay out in style. Made of 100% cotton, its softness is sufficient for resting while soaking in sunrays and gentle enough to absorb saltwater after a dip in the ocean. The 32”-wide and 64”-long vibrantly patterned towel is machine-washable for an easy clean.
$29.50. Pottery Barn, Multiple locations, potterybarn.com
2. Clear Gel Deodorant
Smelling like the sea can be nice, but stinking of sweat is not. To prevent body odor for 48-hours, on-the-go women have no need to reapply. In new destination-inspired scents like Citrus Breeze and Rainforest Mist, and the Scent Expressions collection’s Sunny Citrus, odor protection goes on clear (meaning no white residue under the arms or white marks on cute bathing suits).
$4.59. Walgreens, Multiple locations, secret.com
3. Sunscreen Care Oil Spray
In summer, sun protection is standard. Instead of simply saving skin from harmful UV damage, harm to hair can be prevented too. With SPF 30, and formulated with organic Indonesian tree extracts, the dry oil spray fights free radicals. In addition to being sweat and water resistant, it softens with aloe vera and doesn’t leave a greasy feel.
$36. Macy’s Herald Square, 151 W. 34th St., 212-695-4400, clarinsusa.com
4. Temporary Tattoos
Save flashing for nude beaches. Without committing to a lifetime of ink, LuluDK offers a skin-safe shiny solution that lasts four to six days. Inspired by nature, the metallic designs are applied with a paper towel and a tiny bit of water, almost instantly. Kids, teens and adults can match their moods to styles (like the love story collection) as they accessorize.
Less than $30. Bloomingdales, 1000 3rd Ave., 212-705-2000, luludk.com
5. Zap Zoom Tote
Carrying beauty products, towels and other essentials is easy – when you have the right luggage. In colors like true blue, tan, jade and black, the olivia + joy beach bag is compartmentalized with zipped pockets, making it stress-free to efficiently organize snacks and sunscreen. The nylon carrier is fashionable durable and earth friendly.
$98. Macy’s Herald Square, 151 W. 34th St., 212-695-4400, macys.com oliviaandjoy.com
6. Floral Fit & Flare Dress
Bathing suits are best for the beach. Once you leave the sand for the next spot, real clothes are (usually) required. Slip into a fun, effortlessly stylish look in seconds. Worn as a day dress, or over a bikini, the smocked bodice and flared skirt adds shape, while the spaghetti straps can be adjusted to fit a range of sizes.
$44.95. American Eagle, Multiple locations, ae.com