Hello Summer! – All You Need For Memorial Day In One Bag

By Brian Maynor
May 23, 2014

 

Summer is here, and this weekend will usher in the first of many pool parties; cookouts and vacations of the season.

While Memorial Day is a time to remember all the men and women who paid the ultimate price in service to their country, the weekend has long been seen as the kick-off to summer.  What better way to honor the tradition than by showing you how to pack the perfect summer bag?

Whether you travel across town or across the globe, it is important to make sure you have everything you need for a full day of fun in the sun.  Here are two color-coordinated inspiration boards to make sure you are covered from sunup to sundown:

1.  Arrival ensemble.  You have to arrive in style and look cute while you’re saying hello to everyone and familiarizing your self with the surroundings.  The key to this look is to keep it simple and low-key.  Shorts are a must.  For the guys it is easy, simply start by wearing your swim trunks and a t-shirt.  Ladies, look chic and effortless with a pair of structured shorts and a slouchy top over your swimsuit.

2.  The swimsuit.  This is what summer is all about right?  It’s why we diet; exercise and spend hours agonizing in the mirror.  While it may take time, there are options that work for everyone.  For women the keys are always support and coverage.  You want to make sure everything is securely in place and you feel great knowing everything will stay covered.

This year the guys’ swimsuits and shorts are getting shorter.  While it may be time to say goodbye to the long, baggy basketball shorts that doesn’t mean you have to break out the speedo.   Instead of falling around your knees, choose one that ends at your thigh.  Whether you choose to end at the top, middle or bottom of your thigh is up to you and your confidence level.

3.  Evening option.  We all know the fun doesn’t end when the sun goes down, but do you really want to hang out in the clothes you’ve swam and sweated in all day?  I hope not.  Even if you can’t take a shower, a clean outfit and wipe-down will do wonders.  All you need to freshen up on the go are body wipes; after-sun lotion and your favorite fragrance.

Once you’re feeling renewed, ladies thrown on a maxi dress and keep the party going.  Guys this is where a pair of shorts and clean shirt comes into play.  As for accessories, the simple jewelry you’ve been sporting all day will work great.

4.  The bags.  First, to keep everything you need right at your fingertips you need a large tote bag.  The right bag will be able to fit your towel; shoes; toiletries and change of clothes with room to spare.  Second, you need something to put your wet swimsuit in that is a little more chic than a plastic bag.  Enter the ‘wet bathing suit bag’.  This simple investment will quickly become one of your favorites.

While we all should take a moment to remember all those killed in military service on Monday, this weekend focus on having fun and that starts with being prepared.

 

Click here or on the images below to learn more about the outfit.

 

Click here or on the images below to learn more about the outfit.

 

 

I am always curious to hear from you and what you see in the workplace.  Send your questions, comments and pet peeves to [email protected].   Also find each of these storyboards at http://brianmaynor.polyvore.com with links to purchase each item.

About Brian Maynor

Brian Maynor has built a reputation as one of the leading style coaches in the Southeast and is quickly expanding his eponymous company, BRIAN MAYNOR and his FIND, FLATTER & FLAUNT line of image consulting services. A professional with a fresh, upbeat and down-to-earth personality and boundless creative energy, he works frequently with with local celebrities; Fortune 500 companies and nonprofit organizations; modeling agencies; fashion designers; production companies; record labels; media and individuals. A regular contributor to various fashion blogs and online communities, Brian Maynor is one of the most trusted and recognized style experts in the region, utilizing his education and training as a broadcast journalist to serve as a style lecturer, emcee, and commentator for over a decade. He has appeared at fashion shows, expos, and charity fundraisers, as well as events with big brands like Banana Republic, Ann Taylor, Chico’s and Macy’s. His approach is innovative, creative and fashion-forward, balancing fresh, modern styles with classic pieces to keep one’s look grounded. To learn more, visit http://www.brianmaynor.com.

 

 

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