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What’s summer without a girls’ trip to the pool? To kick off the season, five of us Baltimore influencers got together for blogger pool shoot to showcase what we’ll be wearing this summer (pineapples not included!).
Read on for three swimwear styling essentials, and check out more photos of the beautiful pool at Anthem House Baltimore.
It can be tough to create a true “look” at the pool or beach because let’s face it – you don’t have much clothing to work with! My rule of thumb for any outfit is that it needs three distinct components. The trick is in drawing the eye to at least three key points across the body – that’s what creates an interesting, visually harmonious effect. For example, a pretty dress by itself is fine, but it doesn’t resonate as a complete look until you add a jacket and some killer shoes, or a chic handbag and colorful earrings.
On the other hand, working with limited options also makes it foolproof to pull together an outfit because you can’t overthink it.
With that said, here’s my three-part recipe for a chic poolside look.
A gauzy coverup that actually protects exposed body parts
My shoulders are always the first parts to burn, so sleeves are a must. I’m partial to classic summer whites that reflect light and heat, so I was pleased to find this classic embroidered caftan at J. Crew at the beginning of the season. While J. Crew’s fabrics are hit-or-miss these days, this 100% linen tunic has a great hand-feel and drape. The bell-sleeves and abstract eyelet detail made it feel a little vintage and unique too. While it’s unfortunately already sold out, I also like this one with ties along the sleeve or this one with geometric lace.
A unique bag to hold the essentials
As much as I like woven totes – the most iconic of summer bags – they can feel same-old-same-old. This summer I’ll be putting my minimalist Cult Gaia’s Ark clutch to work instead. It’s exactly what I need to pack a bottle of sunscreen, sunglasses, phone, and wallet. The natural bamboo looks great with summer whites, plus the wood can weather a little water, sand, lotion – whatever you throw at it.
Statement jewelry is the finishing touch
Poolside jewelry feels extravagant. It’s a bit illogical, but adding a piece of jewelry – even if you’re just going to take it off before you actually get in the water – finishes a look beautifully, despite being slightly impractical. I opted for my favorite pair of silver hoops from the north of Thailand (read more about them here), and these two arm cuffs, also Thai silver, that my Mom brought back from one of her first trips there in the 1970s.
The Swimsuit
I was drawn to the Vix Margarita bikini (now on sale) because of the unique print and colors – the soft grey-blue and peach combination isn’t one you often see on swimsuits. I was also delighted by how incredibly soft the Vix fabric is; it feels like silk. I’ve never owned a Vix swimsuit before, so I’m curious to see how it holds up, but after two wears and washes I haven’t noticed any initial pilling. The fabric is so delightful I’m already tempted to snatch up a couple more styles while they’re on sale!
It was fun to collaborate on this shoot with other bloggers and see how we each styled our looks. Needless to say, we had a ton of fun too!
Rocking out at our blogger pool shoot! From left to right: @lifestylebyannaelizabeth, @shoptini, me, @collectivelycolleen, and @coffeestainedlace.
Thank you to the fantastic Jade Nikkole Photography for collaborating with us!
Photo Credit: Jade Nikkole Photography
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