Can it really be Memorial Day already?  It seems like just yesterday that I was walking to work in a snowstorm, grumbling to myself about the dreary winter.  But here it is, the start of Summer, and the opening salvo of beach season.  So I suppose I should at least give you some outfit ideas for the occasion.

Polyvore Set Here.

Why not indulge in a little whimsy with a itsy-bitsy, teeny-weeny, yellow, polka-dot bikini?  As for a cover up, I like a men’s shirt.  It’s functional, classic and effortlessly chic when belted.  And if you steal it from your boyfriend’s closet, it’s free.  Why shop when you can borrow with no definite return date.

Add a simple thong sandal (high enough on the arch to provide support), a beach tote and a great pair of cat’s eye sunnies, and you’re ready for the beach.  But is the beach ready for you?

You might also want to add a chic sun hat like this one.  The UV rays can be brutal.

Polyvore Set Here.

If the surf and sand isn’t your thing, take a stroll down the boardwalk in this breezy sundress.  Mix in some nautical-inspired pieces, like a striped cardi and a robe belt, to complete the Summer by the sea theme.  

I also threw in an orange huarache for a bit of color and a cool pair of aviators.  All you need now is some bronzer and a summer share in the Hamptons.

Polyvore Set Here.

After a long day on the sand, who doesn’t love to sit on the restaurant patio and sip a cocktail?  Well, this outfit is perfect for that.  

Here, I paired a patterned, gauzy tunic blouse with some simple white trousers and coordinating accessories.  I love these pants because a) they’re under $100 and b) they’re tab front.  God bless the person who invented the tab front pant, it’s so much more forgiving than a button or clasp front pant when you indulge a bit too much at dinner.

I also think the sandals are adorably chic, and those sunnies are on my Summer hot list.  Look for them on my face, circa Saturday.  Thank you, birthday gift cards.