Can you believe it? It is already the end of May and Memorial Day Weekend is here! I can hardly contain my excitement, because this weekend marks the OFFICIAL beginning of summer for fashionistas everywhere. Science may disagree with us and claim that the Summer Solstice really does this, but us girls know better… The last weekend of May is the true mark.
Every summer my (huge, loud, crazy, lovable, Irish) family all meets up at my beach house in Cape Cod, Massachusetts to enjoy each others company and kick off the summer right. After a beautiful day in the sand, there are plenty of beachy cocktails to be had, and lobsters to be eaten, and the weekend is always a success.
But in order to ensure that we come home with a glowing tan (or “base burn” if you’re a ginger like me), we make sure to pack a ton of swim suits. For most people, Memorial Day Weekend is the kick off to bathing suit season– so I’m going to make sure you guys are prepared with swimsuit hunting ideas.
Now fortunately I divide my time on both the East and the West Coast, and know that fashion is completely different in these two areas. Swimsuit hunting will be no exception, so I will be sure to separate this post into East and West Coast styles:
East Coast Ladies:
Being raised in New England, I am no stranger to the coveted old-money, prep look that people strive to achieve here. In a land where Polo and Lacoste’s roam free, there are plenty of ways to blow people away on the beach with a classic, preppy suit. Brands are beginning to monogram swimwear, and we all know there is nothing a preppy girl loves more than seeing her initials on everything. Also, seersucker is making a comeback in a huge way and brands like J. Crew have precious suits made of the fun fabric. But if there is anything that screams New England, preppy lifestyle– it’s Lilly Pulitzer, who has a bunch of precious suits on the market as well!

J. Crew

Lilly
West Coast Girls:
Living in California for the past 3 years has showed me just how different style is coast-to-coast. The West Coast gals tend to achieve a more laid back, bohemian look and there are plenty of swimsuits out this season to reflect that style. Why not try a fringe suit to show off your rocking summer bod? I’m still all about the fringe and think it’s a fun touch to any piece. Mara Hoffman has fantastic styles and even Target is carrying some precious suits too!

Boho-Chic
But while West Coast girls are spunky and laid-back, they are also always on the move! Water sports are huge out in our neck of the woods, and West Coast fashionistas are always jumping into the waves for a quick paddle board or a good surf, and they’re always up for a fun game of beach volleyball. These action packed beach babes need a suit that can keep up with them, as well as shows off their stylish side. De REX Actionwear has everything a California beach bum could want, from stylish one pieces, to comfortable bikinis! If you’re the type of girl who isn’t afraid to get dirty, I would recommend looking here!

De REX hottie.
Which ever coast you call home, wherever you spend your summer, one thing is universally true; a confident girl makes any swimsuit look hot– so shimmie on something that makes you feel comfortable and you’re sure to make a splash! I hope you all have a wonderful holiday weekend! Don’t forget to wear sunscreen!!
Besos xxx Jamie Email: JamieM@Southernandcity.com
Blog: TheGingeBinge. Twitter: Jaymackles20