Words: Jonathan Wells
We, like everyone else, do like to be beside the seaside. When the sun is blazing in the sky, there’s not a cloud in sight and the water is finally a bearable temperature, all we want to do at Gentleman’s Journal is jump up from our desks and head to the coast.
Of course, life’s not a beach — as much as we wish it was. But, when we do manage to escape the shackles of the city and kick back with the sand between our toes, we ensure that we pack exactly what we need to make the most of our time at the beach. Obviously, swim shorts are a must, but what other accessories should you be buying?
Opt for a linen beach towel this summer
Forget your towel and you risk getting sand everywhere, and we mean everywhere. In your swim shorts. In your shoes. In your lunch. But invest in the best towels on offer this summer and you won’t just protect yourself from the beach, but you’ll also make a style statement. The best way to do that this season? Linen.
Linen is soft, lightweight and quick-drying, making it the perfect material for your beach towel. Just take a look at these offerings from Frescobol Carioca; one oven in their signature Copacabana sidewalk pattern and the other inspired by the modernist architecture of Rio’s Palácio da Alvorada and do Planalto. Or, defer to the masters of linen over at Luca Faloni, with this Blue Melange towel, that also comes equipped with a handy side pocket.
Ensure you protect yourself with the right sun screen
There’s nothing quite so sophisticated as a well-balanced tan — and nothing quite so embarrassing as a vivid red sunburn. To avoid catching the sun this summer, you need to find a suncream or SPF moisturiser that works for you, defending against the harsher rays whilst letting you bronze.
From Malin + Goetz, this moisturiser not only enriches the skin with its moisturising qualities, but it also is imbued with SPF30 to keep you safe. Lab Series offers something with a little less strength, at SPF15, but maintains the hydrating qualities of Malin + Goetz. And, if the sun does sneak through, a liberal application of Sisley’s After-Sun will see you right.
Espadrilles are the kings of summer footwear
We’re a little against sandals here at Gentleman’s Journal. It’s not that all flip-flops and sliders are awful — there are some acceptable designs, but they all pale in comparison to the king of summer footwear: The espadrille.
As shown by these Anderson & Sheppard shoes, espadrilles are set on rope to be durable, whilst maintaining style with a simple upper. Bottega Veneta’s offering shows how some subtle weave detailing can add another level of class and Rivieras’ canvas espadrilles are a masterclass in style at a budget.
Find the right bag to store all your beach gear
You might be noticing this list dragging on. That’s only because it takes more than a knotted handkerchief and an ice cream to have a good day at the beach these days. But, with all your new kit, you’ll need something to keep it all in — and that’s why a good bag is essential.
Orlebar Brown lead the charge here. If you’re looking for simplicity and something understated but resilient, you can’t beat the navy Attard, crafted from stretch nylon and replete with zips and pouches. Want to make a splash by the water, and opt for the brand’s printed tote instead, featuring Slim Aaron’s iconic photo of the Hotel du Cap-Eden-Roc. Alternatively, if you’re after a backpack, Frescobol Carioca’s leather-and-canvas offering is hard-wearing, roomy and rendered in a startling blue.
Time for some beachside fun and games
Now for the entertainment. Your skin’s protected and your style statements made, so it’s time to have some fun. From beach games to some summer tunes, these are the best accessories to take down to the water.
Frescobol Carioca is named for the traditional Brazilian bat and ball game, so what better to kick off a beachside holiday than a game of this addictive South American sport? And all to a perfectly-curated summer Spotify playlist blasting from this deceptively powerful B&O portable speaker. To finish the day? Tossing around the pigskin, like this one from Shinola, until the sun sets over the sea.
Like what you’ve seen? Learn more about Frescobol Carioca here, and how they created the ultimate tropical lifestyle brand…
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