Holiday Gift Guide 2015: Summer Dreaming
Sunglasses, beach games and more, our presents for those enjoying warm weather—or wishing they were
While half the world is enduring the grey skies and blustery winds of winter, the other half is living it up in glorious sunshine. That said, all of us are approaching the holiday season. So whether your next poolside hangout is on vacation, around the corner or only in your dreams for now, we have collected some of our favorite products—from swimsuits to games—for your next summertime adventure. We’ve highlighted some below, but check out our Summer Dreaming gift guide for them all.
Bow Waist Bikini
Brisbane-based SOOT (founded and designed by Edwina Sinclair) makes apparel that’s—at the same time—sophisticated and tongue-in-cheek. Their Bow Waist bikini ($139) is made up of a basic high-waisted pant and tank-style top, but its nuance and flair is in the oversized bows. The ribbon-like bows (which can be detached) offer a playful overly cutesy option, while the navy colorway delivers some subtlety to the two-piece.
Cindy Crawford Beach Towel
Measuring 30 by 60 inches, this Cindy Crawford beach towel ($85) by NYC-based portrait drawing duo Deer Dana (aka Kevin Tekinel and Dana Veraldi) is a delightful way to pay homage to a celebrity without going overboard. Complete with Crawford’s famous beauty spot, the towel is 100% cotton and sports Deer Dana’s charming trademark style.
Banana Leaf Bag
Boca Raton, Florida-based husband-and-wife-duo Joe and Tasha Chapman started making their own simple, rugged surfboard bags when they couldn’t find ones they like. Now their brand Chapman at Sea channels their love for surfing, sewing and spending time by the ocean. Their “sandbag” designs have burlap bottoms that keep sand out and your belongings clean and safe. This special banana leaf edition ($138) (with two nautical cotton ropes as straps) adds color and tropical vibes to the practical beach tote.
Warm Water Wax
Made by hand, East Surf Company’s Warm Water Wax ($9)—formulated for 64 to 74-degree water temperatures—will keep your board grippy while searching for warmer waves. Each bar is formed from an original blend of organic wax, and they’ve been purposely shaped with an ergonomic crescent grip for an even spread. East’s surf wax is also available for cold and tropical waters. Sold in packs of three.
Evolution Trunk 19
Outerknown’s Evolution Trunk 19 boardshorts ($125) are born from the very oceans they’re meant to explore. They’re cut from 100% ECONYL fabric, which—through a specialized production process—has been woven together from recycled fishing nets and ocean waste. If sustainability wasn’t already a worthy enough reason to wear them, they also come in an eye-catching abstract floral pattern.
POOL Beach Towel
Bring poolside vibes along on any adventure—even in the cold—with Schönstaub’s POOL Beach Towel ($129). Made in Germany, the 100% cotton towel bears the vibrant brush of palm trees surrounded by glittering swimming pool water. Each towel is delivered in a Schönstaub sack—for easy grabbing-and-going on spontaneous beach days.
Beach Tennis Set
Sporting their signature starry insignia, Fredericks & Mae’s handsome Beach Tennis set ($140) is a perfect way to enjoy the beach without getting wet—especially if the water’s too cold. Made from baltic birch and cork, each kit comes with two paddles, a ball and drawstring carry bag—with replacement balls available upon request. Pick up one set for a friendly match between mates, or two for a competitive game of doubles.
Tank Top Yarn Dyed Seattle
Stripes have been beach appropriate since the Victorian era, but tank tops are certainly more modern—and hemp tanks even more so. With Jungmaven’s made-in-USA, 55% Hemp and 45% organic cotton striped tank ($56), it’s the best of all worlds. And while the hemp adds structure, the cottons keeps the shirt soft, breathable and ultimately comfortable.
Natural Moisturizing Face Sunscreen
While many sunscreens feel like heavy barriers, Suntegrity’s non-toxic sunscreen ($45) is super-smooth and nourishing—and certainly doesn’t feel like you’re wearing a mask. Not just protection against the sun, this cream is also a primer and boasts ingredients such as grapefruit, sunflower and camellia oils, and cucumber extract.
Dreyfuss Sunglasses
With handmade Italian acetate frames, Komono’s Dreyfuss sunglasses ($133) are high-quality without sacrificing style. While the design is available in various colorways, our pick is the gender-neutral Matte Indigo with a tortoiseshell-esque pattern just loud enough to make a statement. Plus, the scratch-resistant CR-39 lenses mean they’re perfect for boozy weekend brunches and klutzes.
For more thoughtful, curious and design-forward gifts this season, check out all our 2015 Holiday Gift Guides.
Images courtesy of respective brands, hero image also courtesy of Schönstaub
