The last thing a girl wants in the summer is a hairspray, bouffant, caked-on makeup and a fussy ensemble. But one can easily cross over to slob territory with all that R&R. Relaxed days call for relaxed glamour. Here are some exotic pieces to breathe a little charisma into your summer wardrobe.
Annushka Beaded Kaftan, $525
Cover-up with a vibrantly-printed, beautifully adorned kaftan, instead of the ordinary cotton tank dress. This 100% silk number by Diane Von Furstenberg has kimono sleeves and sequined details, which bring the elegance of a black-tie function to the pool. Net-A-Porter.
Vintage Christian Dior Sunglasses, $270
Our new favorite sunglasses brand, Retrosun takes retro styles by amazing designers and makes perfect replicas for our wearing pleasure. So if you're nowhere near a fabulous vintage shop where original designs like this linger, you still have access to a wide selection of blast-from-the-past pieces. Net-A-Porter.
Small Envelope Bag, $1,290
More comfy than a hard-shell of a clutch, but a whole world more glamorous than a shoulder bag or beach tote, Devi Kroell's envelope clutch is big and soft with an unexpected and glamorous python leather exterior. Bonus- it's roomy enough to house your phone, a wallet, digicam, sunglasses and more. Just tuck under your arm and go! Barneys.
Bain De Soleil Orange Gelee SPF 4, $9.99
This old-school sun gel is SPF 4 and (don't tell your derm!) helps build a beautiful bronze tan. It smells like juicy oranges, to boot. Drugstore.com.
Brilliantine, $20
For that starlet, just woke up in a stranger's bed, threw on a couture gown and walked the red carpet look, Bumble and Bumble's Brilliantine does the trick. Just a dab of this polish makes hair look separated, languid and glossy, but not overtly shiny. Think of Sienna and Cameron's slept-in, messy looks. No blowdryer, flat iron or fussing necessary. Bumble and Bumble.
Jordan Crystal Cuff, $195
Come on, it doesn't hurt to wear a little bling in the summer. We tried this cuff on as an arm band, and it instantly adds a hippie-chic pop to any black tank top, bikini or maxi dress. We're ready to buy! Gigichic.
Abetone Triangle Bikini, $365
Missoni's timeless print makes for instant string bikini glamour- 100% viscose fabric and a classic cut make you feel like you're in St. Barths, even when you're just hanging around your own house. Net-A-Porter.
Crossover Platform, $595
As seen on Lauren Conrad (numerous times), this Miu Miu platform can be worn with nearly any outfit, and will work for years. High enough to elongate the leg and the perfect color to blend with a summer tan, this strappy sandal is a universal hit. Wear 'em straight from the pool to dinner. Neiman Marcus.
1641 Turquoise Sandal, $155
Dripping with turquoise and rhinestones and every bit as comfortable as your Havaianas, Mystique's sandals are glam and fully functional for poolside and formal affairs alike. Piperlime.
YSL Opium, $50
If you're feeling nostalgic for 1977 and love a hypnotizing and mysterious scent, try YSL Opium. The exotic blend of tangerine, plum, lily of the valley, opoponax, myrrh, cedarwood and sandalwood will have the summer bachelors running in your direction. Sephora.
