1. Choose pieces made of linen, cotton and other natural fabrics. They’re excellent in helping you beat the summer heat and keeping you comfortable.
2. Looking for an alternative to swimming trunks or cargo shorts? Wear boxer length swimming shorts. There are a number available at Paul Smith (Glorietta 4), Polo Garage (Greenbelt 3), Zara (PowerPlant Mall and Glorietta 3) and Villebrequin’s Itsie Bitsie Boutique (located at M. Adriatico St., Malate).
3. Bring a couple of pairs of shades to match your outfit. I find that plastic ones are practical since they don’t get hot like the metallic ones. Aviators, oversized and Hugh Hefner styles are so a la mode now.
4. Shorts with several pockets are very handy to keep all the little items you need while hitting the beach. Sturdy cargo pockets are great because you can wear them a couple of times. And they easily survive all those beach activities.
5. Choose light and bright colors. White is this season’s black. I love it when someone tanned dons an all-white linen look. Nautical navy stripes paired with white linen pants are a timeless look. Try wearing pastel and bright tops and contrast with cream-colored shorts. Floral or paisley long-sleeved shirts made of light delicate fabrics, with the sleeves folded up to elbow’s length, look very sexy when paired with light-colored linen trousers or khakis. Keep a few buttons open if you’ve got the chest for it.