We’re not saying goodbye to summer just yet, and we’re especially not winding down our travels anytime soon. Because traveling smart is all about packing versatile basics, we like to think outside the box when it comes to the accessories.
We asked the founders of fashion-forward Cult Gaia and swimwear brand Belusso for their personal picks for end of summer travel. Find their answers and some additional Darling suggestions, below!
ACCESSORIES
Jasmin Larian, Founder of Cult Gaia
“Travel and nature are the two greatest sources of inspiration for me. I feel in flow when I travel. Being in the midst of exploration and adventure feeds my creativity because it makes me feel like I’m on the verge. Love that feeling. I love traveling with a good set of accessories, because it allows me to pack less because and I can create different looks. I also love taking super unique accessories on my travels because it makes everyone around me friendlier by giving them a talking point!”
An unexpected statement piece to jazz up the slowest of days.
Price: $88-$98
Perfect for wet hair, humid hair, bad hair day, roots, literally it’s a lifesaver when it comes to traveling and hair.
Price: $17-$150
Because it’s always sunny somewhere.
Price: $174-$275
Le Specs No Smirking Sunglasses
See above, literally.
Price: $79
A good duffle is indispensable. And this one is amazing.
Price: $120
Love, love, love these.
Price: $42-$130
So I can be hands-free and have easy access to my laptop.
Price: $148-$209
Because I never know when I’ll need a little pep in my step.
Price: $75-$138
Annie Costello Brown Gold Disc Earrings
For a little sparkle, wherever you are.
Price: $110
SWIMSUITS
Kirsten Sarkisian, Founder of Belusso
“On the list of things I love in life, travel comes right after my family and friends. I find that, unlike time spent with others at home, a trip bonds you with your travel companions on a different level. It’s as if that time is more special, more precious, and, as a result, is somehow seared into your memory in a way day-to-day events can slip away. We should all make an effort to travel with those we love!
And, in order to maximize your time en vacances, take care of packing and putting looks together before you fly. Here are a few ideas to reduce the number of items you’ll need to bring and to relax knowing you’ll feel confident and beautiful once you hit the beach. Look for cover-ups that can do double duty after you’re no longer poolside (less room in your suitcase) and invest in reversible suits (again, less is more when it comes to packing!)”
For Panarea
This is one of Sicily’s Aeolian islands and you should be ready to socialize by hopping from boat to boat! Such a young crowd with lots of time and grappa on their hands. Wear our Camo Driftwood “Romy” and “Sezz de Saint Trop” reversible bikini top and bottom to fit right in.
DARLING also loves this retro-esque one-piece or this classic stripe!
For Lanikai
A rare gem on the North Shore of Hawaii, this beach boasts some of the most beautiful turquoise waters anywhere in the world. Go kayaking to the “Moke” islands in our “Yellow Driftwood” cropped halter and rash guard with matching “Les Tamaris” bottoms. You’ll look great and avoid a sunburn!
DARLING also loves this ruffled two-piece or this printed high neck!
For Capri
Skip the main part of town and head straight to the “Marina Piccola” for a wonderful lunch with the locals. Because the color blue literally surrounds you, we suggest the LEE print in our high waist bottom called “Il Pellicano” and matching bandeau top. You’ll stand out against this gorgeous backdrop and feel completely at ease knowing you packed well.
DARLING also loves this mixed stripe crop suit and this “into the wild” halter!
For South Beach
There’s no better place to see and be seen in South Beach than the stunning rooftop (or lobby) of the One Hotel! Get ready to post your best shot in our Supersonic print “Eden Roc” bandeau and matching Supersonic “Moorea” bottoms.
DARLING’s also loving this bright red swim dress or this fun pineapple print!
For Malibu
The Soho House just opened here and the view from Nobu is unforgettable. We suggest making a statement in a “White Shagreen” Rocamar tunic over shorts and your Belusso suit, ready for anything. When you travel to this locale, though, you should bring what you’ll need for a great workout (in style, of course!).
If you like to swim or paddleboard, pack a “Brand Betty” swim cap, too. Brand Betty is inspired by the belief that you can love fashion and compete in triathalons. A “Betty,” in their lingo, means a woman who works out but who also reads Vogue. I’m in!
DARLING also loves this lace-up one-piece or this sun-protective rash guard!
For Saint Tropez, Ramatuelle and La Plage Pampelonne
This beach is the height of laid-back chic. Stack your “LOVE” bracelets and don your high-neck “Carine” maillot in our signature “Black Shagreen” for a 3:00pm lunch at our favorite spot, Le Club 55.
DARLING also loves this twist front tankini or this lace deep-v!
Where do you have yet to visit this summer?
Feature Image by Amanda Greeley
