Cover Image: Eugenia Kim

Stylish resort must-haves to take you from lounging on the beach to sunset dinners

There's something about spending time by the beach that does wonders for the mind, body and soul. Could it be the melody of lapping waves soothing frazzled souls? Or the magnificent sunrises lifting spirits? As summer goes into full swing, our wanderlust also kicks into gear. And on the top of everyone's mind: a sweet escape to the most picturesque beach resort in some undiscovered corner of the world.

But before you hop on the next flight out, check out our summer-ready mood board of the hottest runway inspirations, plus the best pieces to pack for your vacation. You may be taking some downtime, but that doesn't mean your style should.

1. The Hawaiian Shirt

The humble Hawaiian shirt is no longer associated with fuddy-duddy types, thanks to its induction into fashion's Hall of Fame in recent years. Since then, there have been no shortage of fashionable options on the market, but its popularity soared to even greater heights when Miuccia Prada brought back some of her famous prints and transferred them onto the shirts (she duly matched these with bucket hats and equally graphic skirts).

Prada's interpretations naturally sparked a buying frenzy, but the shirts also stood out because of their unisex appeal—you can always steal one from your partner's closet.

Tatler Tip

Tailoring is key when it comes to the Hawaiian shirt. When cut well, it lends a subtle touch of structure to your ensemble.

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Photo 1 of 3 Gucci printed silk-twill shirt (Image: Net-A-Porter)
Photo 2 of 3 Prada printed cotton-poplin shirt (Image: Net-A-Porter)
Photo 3 of 3 Blouse Figaro printed poplin shirt (Image: Net-A-Porter)
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Photo 1 of 3 Image: 3.1 Phillip Lim
Photo 2 of 3 Image: Chloé
Photo 3 of 3 Image: Loewe

2. The Dress

Sundresses are foolproof options to have in your luggage, but what's fashion without a little risk-taking? Your best bet this season are dresses instilled with a funky, nomadic attitude. Brands such as 3.1 Phillip Lim, Chloé, Loewe and Marni have all released covetable interpretations of dresses that are not only great to spend hot summer days in, but also feed our voracious desire to see the world.

Elsewhere, Simon Porte Jacquemus continued his winning streak with figure-hugging or billowing maxi numbers that sun worshippers would approve of.

Tatler Tip

Look out for homespun details such as crochet, embroidery and fringe to add textural depth to your ensemble.

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Photo 1 of 3 Image: Chanel
Photo 2 of 3 Image: Hermés
Photo 3 of 3 Image: Saint Laurent

3. The Swimwear

This season, designers doubled the mileage on the pool essential by cleverly reworking swimwear for daywear. At Hermès, Nadege Vanhee-Cybulski paired aerodynamic bodysuits with exquisite leather pieces. The late Karl Lagerfeld matched a graphic monochrome interpretation with classic denims at Chanel, thus ensuring a seamless transition from poolside to sidewalk. 

Meanwhile, Saint Laurent's Anthony Vaccarello turned up the heat with sensual leopard print numbers full of bite.

Tatler Tip

Dress up the swimsuit by going ultra-luxe—match it with statement earrings, chunky necklaces or gold cuffs.

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Photo 1 of 3 Image: Loewe
Photo 2 of 3 Image: Valentino
Photo 3 of 3 Image: Chanel

4. The Accessories

The whole may be greater than the sum of its parts, but that doesn't mean you should overlook the details that'll give your resort outfit its panache. From statement shoulder-dusters to graphic sunglasses, every finishing touch matters.

Your bag, for example, should either take the form of a handy belt bag that brings emphasis to the waist, or trendy woven iterations that attest to the skill of the human hand.

For the discerning woman, a casual pair of flip-flops will not make the cut —look towards this season's multitude of feathered sandals to add points to your bearing.

Top things off with an interesting piece of headgear: a wide-brimmed straw hat does the trick just fine, but you can always seal the deal with an embellished headband—it’s a look that's girly and grown-up at the same time.

Tatler Tip

When it comes to accessorising, have a theme and stick with it. This ensures an overall sense of unity and cohesion.

Access is a collaboration between Singapore Tatler and CNA Luxury.

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