WHAT TO WEAR TO THE BEACH

The weather might not be as great as yesterday but it promises to be a sun kissed summer so make sure your beach dress code is a lifesaver.

No heels

I like to take myself up a floor. It makes you look slimmer, more feminine and en passant you train the derriere area. On the beach heels just look silly. Where heels normally give you height they now sink into the grainy sand. Choose a nice sandal. Zara has them and I’m still in love with my Gucci’s.

The good old slipper is always a good idea. Ever heard of O’Bacana? They’re cute and affordable. Or you tiptoe over to the Chanel boutique pick a pair of fabulous flip-flops, swipe your credit card, blink three times and you’re the queen of the coast.

Otherwise the espadrille is the ideal shoe. Easy to slip on, looks dressed and sits comfortably. This summer every big label has it’s own espadrille. I still love my Chanel espadrilles, Josselin bought the Kenzo version and next time I pass the Dolce & Gabbana store and I see them again, I’ll grab ‘em.

If you really really want a heel go for a wedge. That’s what Kate Middleton did, so it’s allowed.

To jewel or not to jewel

I love jewelry. My Cartier rings, a gift from my love, and my Bvlgari ring all stay on no matter what. Etiquette-wise you should leave your watch at home. The rules for the beach are the same as for a gala; you’re having fun so time is of no consequence. So, no watch. Besides you can check the time on your smartphone. My problem is the white landing strip around my wrist. I wear a big wooden bracelet as a concealer, that’s allowed.

Furthermore the devise on diamonds and other sparklers is to leave them at home. Choose matte jewelry: cords, shelled necklaces or beads. Think organic basics and don’t go over the top.

Than there’s the make-up

Many of my friends enjoy going to the beach looking pure and naturel. For me this is a hard one. I think I look better with a little help. So I tend to go for basic make-up. I don’t use foundation I use Phyto Touche by Sisley for a light airy cover with bronze effect. I accentuate my eyebrows with Anastacia powder and brow gel, I use mascara (not eyeliner) and my new Les Beiges blush stick by Chanel. Considering this, the whole Les Beignes line is suitable for the beach. The powder, the nude polishes, the lip gloss, the foundation; if only for the smell but definitely for the finishing result.

Watch out for perfume

Of course we want to smell good on the beach but many perfumes cause pigment stains when exposed to the sun. Some perfumes are suited like good old Sun by Jil Sander (always a favorite) and the fragrances by Biotherm. The later are very natural and perfect for summer days. If you want to play it safe buy hair perfume. Or just spray your own perfume on your hair and your clothes.

Sequence restriction

Leave everything that glitters at home, save it for the evenings. Sequence and other evening-tinted clothing I mean. White lace is perfect this summer, and I think delicate Missoni prints are very chic. Otherwise the Breton stripe goes with everything and I swear by denim shorts and a simple top.