This is how you show off at a beach party

If you're reading this, I'm floating towards Saint-Tropez. We've been invited to Jan des Bouvrie's birthday. He's celebrating it on the beach. But what, what, WHAT do you wear? Well... I've figured it out.

1. Casual, but still

If you have a party, in our case a lunch, you keep your clothing a bit low-key. That gala dress stays at home. Too dressed up, inappropriate. But a kaftan is just a bit too casual. I ordered a dress from Maison Margiela on Net-A-Porter. For Jan and Monique, you want to wear something that exudes style and taste. My dress is delightfully bulky at the front (holding in your stomach can be happily disregarded), at the back it's beautifully low with a simple yet graphic pattern of straps. Truly fashion, yet casual.

2. No heels

That's really pretentious, because you sink into the sand. If you want a heel, go for a wedge. I packed my Balenciaga sandals with gold studs in my suitcase. Ideal.

3. Get a mani/pedi

You don't have to worry about that. Opt for a Shellac that stays put. It gives a lot of shine and you don't have to worry about a chipped nail. Here 5 reasons why you'll be even happier with your mani-pedi.

4. Truly a watch

According to etiquette, I believe it's not allowed (time doesn't play a role at parties, hence), but I think that's nonsense. You don't wear a watch just to know what time it is, it's primarily a piece of jewelry that says a lot about your taste and style. My IWC (ta-da) is just on my wrist.

5. Jewelry

Diamonds are a bit less common on the beach, but I'm looking forward to many bracelets, a composition of earrings (I'm leaning towards a mix between Wouters & Hendrix and my Vuitton earring of which Jet has one and I have the other) and maybe I'll buy something nice at a stall on the Côte.

6. And then the trick

Nuxe, Nuxe and once again Nuxe. On your legs, on your arms. For shiny, gleaming, and well-groomed arms. And it smells wonderful too.

7. And oh yes oh yes

A killer pair of sunglasses of course. And a hat.

Have fun!

P.S.: I haven't set an out of office (reason), but I'm really out for a bit. À bientôt!