Calder Trunks from Onia: Things I Have

I recently did my annual swimsuit review for Summer 2013, and while it had some great entries, it was definitely not exhaustive. Shortly after posting it I came across these Pocket Swimmers from Owner Operator that I loved. I also had the chance to see Onia's release for summer, which included an amazing digitized paisley and a range of bright + vibrant solids.

To that end, the kind folks at Onia sent me a pair of their Calder trunk, so I could give it a try as I head out for Memorial Day weekend. It arrived with three different sizes of plastic sleeves, allowing me a way to transport it wet and to fold it down to almost playing card size for easy packing.

The Calder comes in a range of colors but I went for Azure... since I normally gravitate towards navy I felt this was a nice change and a little brighter for summer.

I also chose the 5" short, although it also comes in a 7.5" and 10", if you like it a little longer.

Check out the rest of their offerings here, and I'll keep you posted with pics of me wearing these in over the summer!

Summer 2013: Swimsuit Review

Well it's time for my annual swimsuit review. Where I take a look at what's out there, make a short list to share with y'all, and then pick one of them to wear this summer. Putting my picks together I realized I can't stay away from something loud and colorful -- so get ready for what's to come.

First up are the High Tides from Bonobos. These were an Americana inspired standout -- 5" length and with a variety of white, blues, and reds.

While continuing my search I found these eye-catching trunks at thecorner.com. Continuing with the dot pattern he used for his Spring collection, Jonathan Saunders green and yellow design, while pricey, are fantastic.

Ever since meeting one of the founders of Aloha Sunday last year in Palm Springs, I've been taken with both the brands they carry and their private label offerings. The Manitou trunk contains a few irresistible favorites -- seersucker and anchors. Preppy trappings done in a cool and wearable way.

Over at Opening Ceremony were these contrasting gingham shorts from Frank's. Looked to me like someone took a picnic tablecloth and spilled yellow paint on it. And I think it works!

The last pick for my review is another nautical piece -- these shocking yellow sailboat board shorts from Club Monaco. Again tying back to my love for all things nautical, and in a favorite color of mine, these will definitely make a statement poolside.

Stay tuned to see which of these I take home -- and for pics of me rockin' them this summer!

Orlebar Brown x Slim Aarons Swimsuit: Things I Want

I've definitely been swimsuit crazy in the lead up to summer. First I did a review of the suits I wanted, then I picked up some new trunks from Vilebrequin, and another new pair at Saturdays Surf.

But now comes a new entry from Orlebar Brown that is too good to pass up. They are launching a series printed with pictures from Getty Images, including the amazing Slim Aarons photo used below. Too cool!

Check out Bruce Pask's review of the line here and then get over to Orlebar later this week (the series launches May 24) and get a pair for yourself!

Swimsuit from Vilebrequin: Things I Have

A few weeks ago I posted a swimsuit review -- showing some of the styles I was looking at for summer. 


It was admittedly not an exhaustive list... and so when folks representing French beachwear company Vilebrequin suggested I check out their wares I was definitely open to it. I'd been gifted a Vilebrequin suit a few years ago and lost it, so a replacement sounded like a good idea!


Last week I stopped by their store on West Broadway for what a fantastic personal shopping experience... I tried on quite a few different pattern and color combinations in two different styles. 


In the end the Moorea cut had a great mid-calf length, and I really loved the Whirlwind print... a nice blend of colors that stands out but isn't too much.

Can't wait to wear this on one of my upcoming beach adventures... check it out here for more info!

Summer 2012: Swimsuit Review

It's that time of year... the annual swimsuit hunt. I had started looking a few weeks ago, compiling in my mind the list of suits I liked, and thought I'd do a little share. 


I normally have a few guidelines -- has to be a box cut, no Speedos, and nothing too long (my Osklen board shorts being the lone exception). So here are a few I've seen that I am considering for the season...


First up is this pair from Saturdays Surf, their Ennis boardshort. I popped into their store recently and really liked this two-toned look. Not too long, subtle colors, and easy to wear in and out of the pool.

Another option I am looking at is the J. Crew Portofino Trunk. This one is in their "tidal stripe" and the 5" length is perfect for me. Also appreciate the side pocket for phone, keys or other accessories... as long as I don't forget the phone is in there, which happened last summer!

Who is not talking about Orlebar Brown these days. They are everywhere, and in a good way! Bringing great shorts that can be worn on the beach or on a hike, in a variety of lengths and colors. They also did a great collab with Nick Wooster! 

I'm a big fan of their Setter, which is another 5", and how could I not jump at the bright yellow ones. So good!

As you know, I can't stay away from prints no matter how hard I try. From Peruvian produced  brand Olasul comes the Geo Blue 5" short that I am totally drawn to! Nice length, quick drying, and some eye-catching goodness. 

I couldn't resist a look at these seersucker shorts from Thom Browne for Black Fleece. I tried these on yesterday and not only did they fit really well, they have the Thom Browne details like mother of pearl buttons, black silk buttons on the waist, and an overall elegance about them. But it's a swimsuit... that I could wear with a bowtie!

I've been drooling over Burberry Prorsum's Spring collection and when I saw these vinyl shorts at Bloomingdales I was smitten. Another print heavy option, and something that will standout. I liked the subtle black and white patterned background with the yellow and blues popping out over it.

Stay tuned for me to share which of these suits I end up with (or perhaps mutiple!) for some summer fun!

Gant Rugger Swimsuit: Things I Have

I'm heading to Palm Springs for the Easter weekend and decided it was time for a new swimsuit. So of course I headed right to Barney's to see what they had.

No surprise that the first suit to catch my eye was from Gant Rugger. I loved the fun madras print, the front and back pockets, and the square cut. Tried it on and it fit perfectly!

I always love a little color and so this mix of navy, yellow, and white is a great match. Super excited to rock this out in a few days...

Check out the Gant site for more from their Spring '11 collection.

Things I Want: Lilly Pulitzer Swimsuit

Well folks, summer is coming! The weather is getting warmer and I have a trip to Hawaii scheduled next month. Time for a new swimsuit...

As you've probably read from me before, I have a fascination with Lilly Pulitzer. I have been searching for a vintage men's coat on eBay. Let's just say the search continues.

But the prints, the colors, the Palm Beach lifestyle. I want it all!

So naturally in my search for some new swimmies, I ventured over to their site. And look at these beauts I found:

I love the way sealife is incorporated into the design while still keeping it very bright and vibrant. And you sure won't get lost on the beach!

Go to the Lilly Pulitzer site and check out the rest of their swim collection (plus some great coats, pants, and ties): http://www.lillypulitzer.com/Swim/Capri-Trunk-Printed/invt/72843&bklist=icat,4,shop,mens,mensswim

Surf's up!