What Would Holley Wear: Neutral Chic at the Beach

For a fall beach vacay, we are taking beach style up a few chic notches with neutrals.  Not only does this give your beach look a sophisticated vibe, but it also makes for easy packing.  Plus a bonus….neutrals easily transition into fall! 

So we just returned from Carmel by the Sea, and our home away from home was a 1920’s cottage located between town and the beach.  The walk to town meant climbing a steep hill, so comfy shoes were a must. Sam Edelman’s espadrille loafers in leopard print would be perfect for a climb to town.  Or a pair of tan Gucci espadrilles would definitely bring the chic to your beach vacay. 

This year, we went after Labor Day, and the highs were typically in the 60s.  Doesn’t that sound heavenly? Speaking of Heaven….for a day trip to Big Sur, I  suggest wearing a jacket. A linen blazer layered over a white V-neck tee paired with white jeans is without question Cali-cool.  And of course a striped blazer paired with crops and white sneakers is perfect for whale watching!

So, what does your beach tote say about you?  I’m loving one on our Pinterest board that says….“I have 99 problems, but a beach ain’t one!”  How true is that? From Loeffler Randall’s cruise tote (comes in tan and black striped) to Saks Off 5th large straw tote, a basket bag is all you will need for your beach vacay!  “A-Tisket, A-Tasket”….look who’s got the cutest beach basket!  

“Lights, Camera, Action!”  Have you caught up on Series 2 of Big Little Lies, and did you know parts of it were filmed in Carmel by the Sea?  So what would Holley suggest you wear “on location”? Hmmm…how about an off-the-shoulder top paired with tan paper-bag pants belted with a scarf for a little bicycle jaunt to Mission Inn.  And for lunch at Bernardus Lodge and Spa in the valley, how chic is a Mango striped shirt dress complemented with a Loewe basket bag? Witherspoon, party of 3….your table is ready!  

There’s only one way to describe the view at the Pebble Beach Golf Course….breathtaking!  In June of this year, it was home to the US Open PGA Tour. So I’m thinking white jeans and a light-weight taupe sweater is a great look for the golf course.  A Pinterest favorite features white crops and a white tee topped with a long striped shirt/jacket and a pair of matching espadrilles. Sounds “par for the course”….don’t you agree?

Could there possibly be anything more chic than wearing neutrals on a fall  beach vacation? I don’t think so!  

Holley Williams is a personal stylist specializing in closet inventory, seasonal shopping, closet organization and wardrobe consultation.  Contact Holley at [email protected].