LIFE & STYLE

Red, White & Wow: Beyond Summer Essentials

By Melanie Carden

Sand, salt, and sun—the three defining elements of summer. We’ve arrived, my friends. We’re in that sweet spot of the season, when we curse the humidity, but savor the fresh corn. Getaways, cookouts, and beach days galore—summer memories are some of the best, and here are a few spectacular summer splurges to make the most of it.

COASTAL TOILE
If ever there were a perfect summer dress, this Vineyard Vines coastal toile maxi is pretty much it. It’s effortlessly graceful with its crisscross back and smocked bodice, but it’s the coastal print featuring sailboats and lighthouses that just screams summer. Info: vineyardvines.com

OODLES OF OYSTERS
Nestled in Massachusetts’s Duxbury Bay, Island Creek Oyster Farm is celebrated for its fresh oysters. Of course they ship, but what’s even more enticing is their Block Party bundle, which includes 100 Duxbury oysters and 250g of Adamas White Sturgeon Caviar from Pandino, Italy.
Info: shop.islandcreekoysters.com

MARITIME ADVENTURE
To celebrate the season, Ghurka leather goods has released its Maritime Collection—a nod to seafaring adventure. The pieces—impeccably crafted—feature nautical colors of Regatta Blue and Signal Red and are ready for seaside romps and summer getaways. Info: ghurka.com

OCEAN PLASTIC WATCHES
The watches in Armitron’s Wave and Reef collections are created with recycled ocean plastic—the result of a collaboration with Tide Ocean Material SA and the Wildlife Conservation Society. They’re durable and striking enough to be an eco-conscious conversation starter. Info: armitron.com

GOLDEN GOODS
Mesh has been a runway juggernaut as of late, but it’s easy to work into your day-to-day style with White House Black Market’s Mesh Cinched Cardigan. I adore the muted gold hue and vertical cinch seams—it’s perfect for a breezy dinner on the shore. Info: whitehouseblackmarket.com

LUXE LAVENDER
Wile away the day sipping endless botanical spritz in lovely lavender coupe glasses from Noon & Moon. It’s always a treat to find gorgeous cocktail glasses sold in sets of 12, and these are perfect for aromatic sips and anytime you want to elevate the ambiance. Info: noonandmoon.com

ZERO-PROOF PERFECTION
It’s Grüvi, baby! The non-alcoholic beer and wine brand has a really fabulous Dry Secco, the perfect champagne swap when you want something extra light. Then again, the canned Sangria is my new go-to for spontaneous beach days. Info: getgruvi.com

SELF-MADE SHADE
The brand goes by Strait the Label, and each creation is a medley of island vibes and Mother Nature’s inspiration. This near-perfect Drifter Sugar Cane Bucket Hat delivers that too-cool-to-care mood, provides instant shade, and is perfectly packable.
Info: straitthelabel.com

LET’S GRILL!
Did summer even happen if you don’t BBQ? I think not, and Spoonful of Comfort agrees, which is why they have this adorable chili dog bundle. From the hot dogs to buns, chili, mac and cheese, baskets, deli liners, cookies—and even a greeting card, it’s a bundle of summer foodie nostalgia.
Info: spoonfulofcomfort.com

STARGAZING WITH SIZZLE
Tuck this little fireplace from 280 West anywhere—on a balcony, patio, or beachy overlook. It’s compatible with propane, natural gas, or bioethanol, and the three-sided design throws off targeted heat. Sit under the stars and enjoy the mood or dabble in outdoor cooking. Info: 280west.com

SUN SUNDRIES
From sea salt scrubs to after sun care, Davine’s is stocked with elevated essentials to ensure summer doesn’t ravage our hair and skin. Grab their 8 oz This is a Sea Salt Spray anytime you’re in the mood for that casual beachy hair look and be on the lookout for the travel sets. Info: us.davines.com

HAPPY 4TH AND BEYOND
The itty-bitty rollneck on this sweater, combined with the classic look of American flag styling, puts this pullover in a summer league of its own. From Vineyard Vines, this mercerized cotton gives it a luxe feel—a nice contrast to its casual tailoring. Trust me, you’ll turn heads on the 4th of July soiree. 

Info: vineyardvines.com