It’s no secret that trends come and go, but a few fashion items remain timeless in their appeal and allure. Invest in any of the following, and rest assured, none of these items will ever find their way into your giveaway pile. Each has staying power, as well as an enduring ability to instantly elevate any outfit.
The Head Scarf
One can’t go wrong when emulating timeless fashion icons such as Audrey Hepburn, Elizabeth Taylor, and Jackie Kennedy, each of whom adored a stylish head scarf. Whether to protect from wind or sun, a silky head wrap is a statement – one that screams glamour. We like this luxe silk version from Frankie’s Bikinis. From town, to country, to beach, the Heidi will allow you to easily pivot from bohemian hippy to vintage diva. If you’re interested in an investment piece, go to the GOAT of the scarf world – Hermès. Turn heads in their Projets Carres au Crayon scarf.
The Hat
Favored by celebs such as Rosie Huntington-Whiteley, Vanessa Hudgens, and Gigi Hadid, Australian label Lack of Color has the season's best hats…and each will surely retain its stylish appeal, year after year. Created by Tess Corvaia and Robert Tilbury, a creative couple from Queensland, Australia, Lack of Color features high quality and affordable styles including the boater, fedora, and ranch – each an everyday staple that not only provides sun protection but also adds effortless flair to your wardrobe. Shop the entire collection at CameoNouveau.com, an online retail shop founded by Colombian graphic designer and fashion curator Marisa Corrado.
The Sunglasses
An absolute summer must, sunglasses serve the dual purpose of providing protection while helping to define personality. Perhaps no other accessory adapts so easily and affordably to current trends. But this summer, we are sticking with the tried and true – the Aviator, perhaps made most famous by Tom Cruise in Top Gun. There is a reason this style has maintained popularity since its introduction in the 1950’s - they easily raise every wearer’s cool quotient. Ray-Ban has cornered the market for years, but we also love Gucci’s version with its signature green and red wrapped gold metal frame.
The Sneaker
White sneakers are omnipresent; every designer and brand features a version. It's easy to see why. A sparkling clean pair goes with everything, from flowy prairie dresses to kick crop jeans. Despite the influx of newer styles/brands, we’re going old school with the classic Adidas Stan Smith, named for the 1970’s American tennis champ. This shoe was first released in the late 60’s and has been a fashion constant ever since. If you’re a Nike loyalist, the Cortez calls your name. This classic was introduced in 1972.
The Casual Sandal
In the world of casual sandals, homely often equals desirable. Case in point – Birkenstocks. Fashionistas just can’t seem to veer from these classics that features a uniquely contoured footbed. Many swear that their Birks are the most comfortable footwear they own, and we can't argue with that. Ease into the trend with the feminine rose-colored Arizona Vegan Birkibuc, or opt for the bit more understated Madrid Big Buckle in white natural leather.
The Dress Sandal
Part of Stuart Weitzman’s iconic and omnipresent NUDIST Collection, the SIMPLE takes the heel down just a notch for go-with-virtually-everything ease. Knocked-off by nearly every other shoe designer and brand, the sexy and simple NUDIST silhouettes, in a variety of heel heights, have become a staple in every women’s wardrobe.
The Swim Suit
Bikini, tankini, bandeau, or classic one piece. Your swimsuit wardrobe likely includes one of each. But if forced to choose only one, make it this flattering, body-sculpting halter from Boden. The style is classic and flatters all body types. For an extra feel-good factor, both the nylon and the polyester lining in this Santorini Swimsuit (in French navy/ivory stripe) are made from recycled materials.
The Swim Cover-Up
A great swim cover-up serves many roles – morning robe, evening loungewear, and the intended purpose of providing poolside discretion. A kimono style never loses its appeal. We love the boho chic vibe of Johnny Was, and the brand’s Boho Short Coverup Kimono can easily serve many functions, from morning coffee, to afternoon swim, to nighttime television viewing. Or feel like a kid again and go the cozy route by choosing this snuggly and absorbent Helen Jon Hooded Terry Tunic from Santa Monica’s Everything But Water swim boutique.
The Jean Jacket
Glam it up, or wear it with your workout gear. A jean jacket is never a wrong choice. Go for the gold standard with a Levi’s version, or change things up with a style from a company that’s been crafting luxury artisan goods since 1846 – the made-in-Italy Loewe cropped denim jacket.
The Tote Bag
Stylish as well as practical, a tote is perfect for carting towel, sunscreen, and snacks to the beach, or for stashing groceries. San Francisco-based Rothy’s makes the instantly classic The Pail – a bucket-style silhouette with a kicky rope tie closure and tassel detailing in Indigo Sky, Lemon Yellow, and Jade Green – and The Rope Tote, a carry-all for any summer occasion, in Indigo Sky or Swan White. The brand is a favorite of Meghan Markle, who is frequently photographed wearing their comfy flats, as well as their face masks – each knitted to shape with a signature thread made from plastic water bottles. The totes, too, are made from the same engagingly tactile material that is both durable and washable.
