A monochrome lover's guide to beach vacation essentials

Black & white don't have to be boring

When I click into most “vacation shops” across major brands and retailers, they’re often exploding with colors and patterns. I scroll for inspiration, but know deep down that I don’t feel a connection to what I’m seeing - these clothes just aren’t me. My style vision for a tropical trip includes timeless, neutral pieces made from linens, gauzy cottons, and beautiful silks.

I recently returned from a long weekend in Mexico and I’m proud to say that I didn’t go shopping for clothes or accessories in advance of the trip - this is a departure from past vacation behavior, but meant to be highly intentional. I personally dislike event or trip-related shopping because I find that it’s easy to have tunnel vision and just focus on buying an item for a singular moment in time, as opposed to falling in love with a piece because it perfectly fits into my much grander vision to wear it multiple ways season after season.

Here are some of the pieces from my suitcase that I purchased during past seasons after much deliberation. All of the brands featured are female founded or female led.

Dresses: Since I gravitate toward solid neutrals, I’m always looking for great silhouettes that are easy to wear in the heat or some type of texture. I also love when dresses are a little flirty - it’s vacation, so let’s have a little fun.

I’ve owned this Matteau Tiered Sundress for years and still get endless wear out of the piece. It has survived many trips and launders and still looks as beautiful as the day I purchased it. Matteau is an Australian label founded by sisters Peta Heinsen and Ilona Hamer.

Matteau Tiered Sundress and Amanu Constantia Sandals

Last year, I snagged a Tibi Eyelet Dress during their summer sale that had pieces of silk and cotton eyelet sewn together. The combination has beautiful visual interest. Amy Smilovic is the creative pragmatist behind Tibi - I’ve shared my adoration for her previously.

Over the years, I’ve collected a few dresses from sustainability-focused Three Graces London, founded by Catherine Johnson. I find their pieces to be figure flattering and timeless, but the cuts aren’t run-of-the-mill. It looks like they haven’t yet restocked for summer, but you can typically shop their dresses at Net-a-Porter, MatchesFashion, Moda Operandi, and FWRD. Some of their dresses from last season are available at The Outnet, like this one.

I’m also a sucker for a great Posse dress. I especially love that fact that the dresses I’ve purchased over the years like the Alice Mini Dress and the Poppy Dress are lined, which is sometimes harder to find with other brands. The Australian brand was founded by Danielle Mulham.

Cover Up: An oversized button down is my favorite way to dress for a walk to the beach or pool. A few years ago, I purchased this oversized Vitamin A Playa Shirt in black and also in white and have gotten endless use out of both colors. I wear them as is over a bathing suit or add a pair of shorts and tie the front. The California-based brand was founded by Amahlia Stevens and is focused on sustainability, inspired by her ties to Patagonia.

Vitamin A Playa Shirt

Bathing Suits: I love the classy silhouette of the Matteau Balconette Top - it’s often my go to.

Hunza G has a plethora of versatile and forgiving pieces. I do find, however, that the lighter colors are a bit see through, so stick to darker options. Their one pieces like the Square Neck with a low back are incredibly flattering and I am a fan of the Gigi Bikini too. Though Hunza G was originally founded by in the 80’s by Peter Meadows and is responsible for the iconic Pretty Woman dress, the label was relaunched in 2015 through Georgiana Huddart - she added the G (and I would say G, for so freakin’ good!).

Zimmermann’s bathing suits always have new styles and shapes year after year. I love checking out their latest selection. I also find that their offering on The Outnet offers some great deals. Zimmermann is another Aussie darling of a brand founded by sisters Nicky and Simone Zimmermann.

Sandals: For those who know me, it’s not hard to conclude that my summertime uniform most frequently includes my Amanu Constantia Sandals. Amanu makes sandals by hand that perfectly fit to your feet - the brand was founded by Anita Patrickson. Unfortunately the LA store has since closed - my fingers are crossed for a new location in the future. The quality and comfort is top-notch. For those wondering, they fit true to size. I’m not kidding when I say that I’ve worn my Amanu sandals more than 200 times.

Hats: My Janessa Leone Felix Bucket Hat is a beach vacation staple. It’s easily packable and not oversized so it doesn’t take up too much space. SoCal native, Janessa Leone started her eponymous brand in LA back in 2013. I also love a classic, plain black baseball cap. Funny enough, my favorite was free from a vendor I once sourced product from, so it’s not even from a “brand.” Here’s an option.

Cheers to being chic, on the beach!

x jz

Images | 1 | @b.g.mckay | 2 - 4 | @b.g.mckay, styled by me | 5 | Posse | 6 | @b.g.mckay, styled by me | 7 | Vitamin A | 8 | Matteau | 9 | Hunza G | 10 | @b.g.mckay, styled by me | 11 | Janessa Leone

_________________________

Looking for a gift? Check out these female-founded options across capsule wardrobe fashion, luxe style, beauty, home decor, and food

Read more about my morning with stylist Allison Bornstein IRL - part 1 and part 2

Packing tips for your upcoming trip can be discovered here

And if you’re a classics lover like me and seeking timeless pieces, you’ll love this and this