In this digital age of always-ringing phones, non-stop media, and never-ending overstimulation, it's always nice to think back to easier, simpler days; back to those classic Americana summers, with beaches covered in bright umbrellas and vibrant striped towels, no screens or loud noises, just seaside fun and good vibes.Â
Of course, we're looking at those older days through rose-tinted nostalgia lenses, and they probably weren't that perfect, but the sentiment still remains. We're chasing the "analog summer" vibe, but we also want a successful beach trip with the family that doesn't result in sand in every crevice of your card and two totally exhausted parents.
This summer, we're taking it back to the basics. Here's our guide on having a great summer by embracing the retro beach club aesthetic with classic styles, minimal packing, and gear that actually works!
The Effortless Mom Uniform
Moms, I have good news: You really don't need to sacrifice style for function at the beach! There are tons of ways to look great on the beach without getting super hot, sticky, and sweaty. First, polyester is your number one enemy! It's not going to breathe, it's going to cling, and it's going to make you miserable. Natural fibers like linen are our go-to fabric for surviving the Wilmington heat and humidity while still looking great. The price point may be a smidge higher for high-quality natural fibers, but absolutely worth it. The difference is massive!
Find a nice, quality tee (you can check our women's tops collection for chic, breeze styles) instead of tossing on a raggedy old tee shirt before your beach trip. That over a pair of jean shorts or a flowy maxi skirt makes for a casual, comfortable, and stylish beach look. If you plan on getting in the water, a crisp button down worn open over your swimsuit is a great option to stay covered up while you're dry.Â
One of the best choices is a classic sundress. Pick one that's lightweight, and you have the perfect outfit for transitioning from sandy shores to a beachfront lunch. And of course, it wouldn't be the perf Americana summer look without a pair of retro-inspired oversized sunglasses!Â
Shop our Women's Collection for more outfit inspo!
Nostalgic Swimwear for the Littles
The retro, vintage Americana aesthetic is all about timeless patterns. When shopping for your kid's beachwear, keep an eye out for classic patterns like seersucker, thick stripes, and gingham. Stars, checker print, hearts, and cherries are great options, too, because this aesthetic is all about bold prints and patterns.Â
As far as colors go, you can never go wrong with classic red, white, and/or blue! Sun-bleached shades and faded hues over vibrant, neon colors are the way to go. You don't want it to look like you've stepped out of a sepia photograph, but desaturated colors are your friend with this aesthetic.
Our favorite swimwear is from Rylee + Cru. On top of being super stylish, their swimwear pieces are UPF 50+, meaning it's extra safe for your little ones' skin (but you should ALWAYS still use sunscreen)! To keep your little ones extra safe from the sun, rashguards are your best choice. Finish their look of with a classic wide-brim baby beach hat, and your little ones will be beach ready while looking picture perfect!Â
Discover our swimwear for:
The Sande Secret (Protecting the Good Vibes)
Sande Kids is a recent discovery of ours here at Wrightsville Ave Boutique, and we couldn't be more thrilled to have found this brand! Sande Kids provides the ultimate sanity-savers when it comes to beach days. Mom's car stays clean and protected, all of your beach gear can stay organized in one place, and the day feels as luxurious as possible.Â
The secret is leaving your mess at the beach. No, I am NOT saying you should litter! I'm saying that you don't need to drag buckets of beach sand into the car and house with you on your way back!Â
Sande Kids' sand brushes is your friend here. This is the best beach day essential tool, and it's designed to eliminate both wet and dry sand from skin, swimsuits, gear, and upholstery. It's made of sustainable, earth-friendly materials, with bristles made of natural coconut husk fiber, so it's durable and a great biodegradable solution for keeping your car and home sand-free after your beach day!
Sande Kids' beach bags are the real superhero here, though. Their Beach Hauler bag is a favorite of ours. Designed to be the ultimate family carry-all beach bag, the Beach Hauler has a hefty 110-liter storage space, so there's plenty of room for all your beach gear, toys, and extra clothes. Their bags are made of a high-quality mesh, so salty water and sand sifts out with ease, and they include protective pockets for important items like your phone or wallet. They have a backpack option, too, if you need something a bit more compact.Â
Check out our beach gear from Sande Kids and more HERE!Â
See You in the Sand!
At time of press, the holiday is still a few weeks away, but we still wish you the best Memorial Day, and hope you have a beautiful kickoff to the summer season!Â
Are you ready to upgrade your summer and style the ultimate vintage Americana beach day? Start at Wrightsville Ave! Pop into the shop and check out the retro beach club yourself, or look online!
Â
Shop: