Every summer I briefly trade the city heat of New Orleans for a more temperate beach town in Long Island. While Long Island lacks the jewel toned waters of the southern beaches, it compensates by providing day long sweat free activities under the sun. Aside from the climate, what I find most captivating on the East End are the style differences. The ubiquitous pastel-colored sundresses and monogrammed beach bags of a southern summer existence are replaced by an entirely different uniform. It’s as if downtown Manhattan is cosplaying a beach town and its utterly chic. There are several staple items needed to thrive in this cool girl summer spot. Most of which you can shop for and wear right here in New Orleans.
First, arm stacked bracelets are essential to the look. Much like the New Yorkers who wear them, they are utterly unapologetic; announcing their presence with a click clacking jangle and occupying perhaps a bit more space than necessary. Yet their rhythmic sound is hypnotic and they never miss a moment to twinkle off a ray of sunlight. More is more.
The hats are also a standout style difference. The cool girls here are donning Yankees caps, trucker hats shouting out local farm stands or worn in straw buckets. Nothing cutesy or overly contrived. It’s an “I woke up like this” vibe. See The Cereal Aisle Substack for more tips on this aesthetic.
The garments all strike a cool balance of nonchalant and intentional. Tops and pants by brands like, The Great, DÔen , The Row and Re/Done go straight from the beach to town for dinner. Looking effortless and timeless are all part of this understated show.
Last but not least, the shoes are an understated, delicate matter. Rare is the stiletto or boldly hued variety seen at even the nicest restaurants. It’s all about airy, Cinderella (before the makeover) peasant chic.
While New Orleans and Southern style possess a distinct and undeniably chic point of view, there is something endlessly appealing about borrowing from the wardrobes of other places. The best personal style often shines in the space between influences. And the girl who strikes this fine balance is the coolest cool girl of all.
Ribbed Cap Sleeve Tee, Re/Done
Vittoria Pants, Pied Nu
Crochet Flat, Febe
Marquetry Tibetan Leaf Earring, Pilot/Powell
Sally Woven Flat, Pied Nu
Asher Tote, Em’s Boutique
Theo Top, Febe
Mara Chain Bracelet, Ballin’s
Golf Short, Febe
Stormi Tote, Ballin’s
Lemon Stripe Skirt, Lekha
Beaded Cuffs, Freda
Allai Cannella/Contrast Stitch Vacchetta, Pied Nu
Sale & Event Picks:
Ongoing: Judy Summer Sale, Judy
Ongoing: Spend $200 or more on select linen styles and receive a complimentary, Amélline Linen Tote with Shell Buttons, Ballin’s
Through 6/26: 25% off Metagenics Orders, Earthsavers
