Feeling Beachy // his & hers swim style

While sundresses and off-the-shoulder tops are quintessentially "summer fashion," swimsuits and bikinis play JUST as much of a role in this season's lineup. After all, beaching it up and lounging poolside are two of summer's most enjoyable activities - you might as well look good doing it ;) 

This week, I'm incorporating some men's fashion into my post, which is a complete first! My boyfriend/amazing photographer, Antonio, inspired me with his beach getup SO much, there was no way I couldn't share it along with my own beach attire. Below, you'll see how to get BOTH of our looks - a "his & hers beach day" if you will! 

First things first: every great day by the water requires a few essentials. For us, sunscreen is at the top of that list. Since I'm super fair, I opt for SPF 50, and I always make sure to grab the waterproof variety. A fun beach towel is also a necessity. Mine is from the Martha Stewart Collection at Macy's - the cute ice cream print was a no-brainer for me - and Antonio's is Lacoste. A sturdy beach tote, preferably NOT cloth, is also a must. This yellow Coach one has been my go-to for years. 

Of course you can't forget to stay hydrated either! This fun pineapple cup is way cuter than any water bottle, am I right?

It's always hard for me to invest in a swimsuit - let alone multiple - knowing I'm only going to wear it a FEW times a year. This season I decided to check out aerie and I'm so glad I did. They have super cute swimwear for prices that won't break the bank, and even better, there's truly something there for every body type! 

Antonio's suit is equally as bright as mine and looks so cool next to the water. It's by Nike, which makes it sporty and comfortable, and I love how it hits JUST above the knee, which is the trending style for men right now. 

Is it weird that I picked these sunglasses out specifically because they matched my bikini? I couldn't resist! Obviously shades are a necessity for any pool/beach day, and sporting ones that compliment your suit is just stepping your swimwear style up a notch.

A floppy sunhat is another beach accessory that's practical AND can elevate your waterside look. I need all the sun protection I can get, and a fashionable hat like this just makes staying out of the sun look chic.

Antonio is clearly a Nike man. His hat of choice is a simple cap, but the gold swoosh, which matches his gold chains, makes it memorable and unique. He also threw a matching black tank on, which went with his black slides. And let me just tell you, if you're in the market for sandals, you should highly consider these insanely comfortable Nikes. They literally make you feel like you're walking on clouds. 

I normally wear a sundress to the beach because it's easy and fuss-free. But this summer I've been living in these Levi denim cutoffs on the weekends. I paired them with a white crop top tee and loved the effortless vibes.  

While it may LOOK like we're in Florida, Antonio and I didn't have to leave New York - or even the city for that matter - in order to enjoy this gorgeous beach day. Believe it or not, we're at Rockaway Beach, which is in Queens, and it definitely exceeded our expectations. We got there via a 45-minute ferry ride from Manhattan, but you can also take the subway. We're already planning to go back in August! 

I'm kind of obsessed with my neon orange bikini. I was convinced I was going to buy a one-piece this year because they're everywhere right now, but after I tried this beauty on, there was no turning back. The halter top is super flattering and I love how I can run around without feeling like I'm about to fall out of it - amen to that! 

Photos by Antonio Owens & Kathleen Harper

[on Kathleen: bikini top: aerie // bikini bottoms: aerie // sunglasses: Banana Republic // hat: Bloomingdales (similar style here) // shorts: Urban Outfitters // top: Zara (old, but I also like this one) // beach bag: Coach (old, but I also like this one) // pineapple cup: Urban Outfitters (identical one here) // beach towel: Macy's Martha Stewart Collection // on Antonio: swim trunks: Nike (similar pair here) // tank: Nike // hat: Nike // sandals: Nike // beach towel: Lacoste]

Getting to the beach is on my to-do list every summer, but after it didn't happen last year, I was determined to make it a priority this July. And hitting the beach is an even better feeling when you do it in a new swimsuit! 

 // SHOP //