The aesthetic of the Hamptons can easily be described as effortless chic and focused on the nautical vibes of the area. The area has been called the playground of the rich and famous, but it’s also a cluster of small towns with beach girls and surfer guys at every beach every day. While the vibe of the area inspired the trend of coastal grandmother, the area’s aesthetic is much more. The fashion shines from Westhampton to Montauk, but without having been here I’m sure you are standing over an empty weekender bag wondering what you want to pack.
Let your new Hamptons local bestie help you!
A White Dress
A white dress for a Hamptons summer is an absolute must. I love a midi dress because I think it fits in all times of day, from brunch to an early evening glass of rose on the patio. I love a white dress with a tie strap because it always feels so romantic to me, and Hamptons girlies always romanticize their summers. This is the Eyelet Lucie Tie-Strap Tiered Midi Dress from Madewell. $119.
Something Blue
There is just something about a pinstripe blue dress that feels so New England nautical, this is a perfect Hamptons piece. I love this one from Zara because it feels so young and fun with the thin straps and low back but the midi length keeps everything classy. Pair it with some fun sunnies and a simple sandal and it’s the perfect lunch outfit. This is Zara’s Striped Midi Dress. $59.
A Two Piece Set
This look will easily transition from lunch in a Hamptons village to dancing at the Surf Lodge while keeping you comfortable. I have been told that fashion in the Hamptons is not only a specific aesthetic but should be functional enough for adventures, whether that’s a walk, a bike ride or new brunch plans. I love a two piece set because either piece can be styled separately and this nude line fabric is perfect for the beach or a club. This is the Cleo Linen Two Piece Set from Reformation. $249.
A Linen Shirt
Perfect for layering in every opportunity because of the easy, relaxed and coastal vibe. It’s also a super basic piece that you will be able to find at any Hamptons consignment shop or summer flea market. While this is a timeless piece that you can find anywhere, I would definitely get a quality piece so it can have a space in your closet for years. This is Zara’s Oversized Linen Shirt. $49.
A Workout Outfit
You’ll need a cute outfit to take you from your morning spin, hot yoga or pilates class to walking through the villages of the Hamptons to pick up a green juice or lunch groceries at Citarella. I love a hot girl walk through the beautiful villages with a coffee in hand and lots of window shopping, of course. This Artizia romper is, of course, having a moment this summer. I love the rainbow of colors it comes in, and would opt to choose a neutral like “mocha sorbet” or light blue “cloud blue” to be very Hamptons. Pair it with an oversized linen button down with a belt bag to hold all of your necessities, a baseball cap and a pair of sneakers to be comfy while still chic. $79.
A Straw Bag
Straw bags are super popular this summer from Southampton to St. Tropez. I love this one because it’s big enough to hold all your necessities for the day, plus it’s under $20 on Amazon. Some things I always have in my bag when I’m walking around the villages are a good book, a lip balm, some sunscreen and a pair of sunglasses. $18.
A Neutral Sandal
When visiting the Hamptons, packing a big bag might not always be an option, so it makes sense to pack a good neutral sandal that will work with multiple outfits and multiple activities. I love a brown sandal because they really connect to the earthy and natural aesthetic of the Hamptons. In Hamptons fashion, designer labels don’t need to be bold instead accessories should be simple and classic. This is the Hoku Sandal by Steve Madden $50.
A Pair of Classic Sunnies
I feel like I have seen these sunnies everywhere this summer, from wineries to brunches to the beach. They are a simple style that will match every outfit. I feel like sunnies are an unrated accessory because they take any look and instantly add a summery feel to it. Round Metal Frames by Ray-Ban. $178.
A Baseball Cap
A beach necessity, and overall just a perfect summer accessory for topless drives, beach days and walking around. This is New York after all so I love this nude Yankees hat, even though I’m a Mets fan, for a little sun protection because the colors perfectly fit the area. Of course, you can always find a hat that says Hamptons on it once you are out east. $28.
Something Bold
It’s not a trip to the Hamptons without a night out, my favorite thing for a night out is to stay summery and fun but without sticking to the Hamptons aesthetic. For that, I love shades of orange and dresses with cutouts, perfect for dancing on bar tops or drinking spritzes at sunset. This is the Ruched Dress from Zara in orange. $36.
I hope you enjoy your trip — the beaches are beautiful, the lobster rolls to die for and the fashion is amazing.
Featured image via Pacsun, Rayban, Nordstrom Rack. Design by Her Campus Media.