Summer Gift Guide: Swimwear + Snacks
Boardshorts, bikinis, sweet treats and zesty nibbles for the perfect beach day
There are several essentials for any beach or pool day: sunglasses, sunscreen, towel, good book, swimsuit and snacks. While a few of those rarely require a second thought, one duo in particular warrants frequent refreshing: the water-ready garments you wear and the hunger-satisfying treats you bring along. From bikinis to boardshorts, beverages, chips, chocolate, matcha and more, we have your afternoon in the sunshine covered—just be sure to keep the meltable ones (whether that be you or the chocolate) out of direct sun.
Sriracha Sunshine Chickpea Puffs
Gluten-free and vegan, Hippeas chickpea puffs ($12 for two bags) are high in fiber and protein but low in fat. The super-crunchy snacks are made with all-natural ingredients and come in various flavors (from BBQ to vegan cheddar), but our pick is the zesty and slightly spicy Sriracha Sunshine.
Bauhaus Edition 01 Trunks
Referencing the simple forms of the beloved German design movement, Timo’s aptly named “Bauhaus Edition 01” swim trunks ($140) are bold yet sophisticated. Covered in black, white, green, red and yellow geometric shapes, they feature an elastic waistband and a drawstring. With contrast stitching, these trunks offer a slim but relaxed fit and are made from a quick-dry fabric.
Tie-Dye One-Piece
Available in three psychedelic tie-dyed colorways (magenta/wine, blue/brown or teal/cream), this Proenza Schouler one-piece ($375) is an eye-catching but practical swimsuit. With a straight bandeau-style neckline, it features extra-long shoulder straps—for both aesthetics and functionality. Made from a nylon/spandex blend, this suit should be washed by hand.
Mint Matcha
As matcha enthusiasts, we’re certainly partial to traditionally brewed green tea, but understand that there isn’t always time for the full ceremony. Of all the bottled iterations we’ve tried, there’s no doubt that MatchaBar’s mint matcha is our favorite. With a bold flavor and a refreshing twist, it’s available in packs of 12 ($40) and provides that combination of caffeine and L-Theanine that matcha-drinkers appreciate.
Moon Rocks Chocolate Bar
Commemorating the 50th anniversary of the first moon landing, Seattle Chocolate and The Museum of Flight concocted an out-of-this-world bar ($5). Featuring a delightfully rich and creamy milk chocolate truffle base and popping rock candy, it’s a playful treat that’s drenched in nostalgia—right down to the Jessica Allen-designed packaging.
Marguerite Print Swimsuit
Made for all genders and with retro inspiration, these Holiday Boileau shorts (€155) feature a cheerful, seasonal print by Inès de Chefdebien. The exterior is patterned with flowers on a black background, while the interior has a mesh netting and an elastic waistband. Sizes range from XS to XL.
“My Daddy Is Cool” Printed Bikini
Printed all over with series of cartoon-ish faces and scenery, Greek designer Ellie Rassia’s “My Daddy is Cool” bikini ($149) is a playful and practical swimsuit—thanks to adjustable shoulder straps and a tie-back. With ruched hips and a high-waist, the bottoms are flattering for all shapes and sizes.
Himalayan Pink Salt Chicken Chips
Wilde Brands recently debuted a Himalayan Pink Salt flavor for their chicken chips (thinly cut pieces of chicken fried with tapioca flour) and it offers a complex, delectable taste, along with the high-protein nutritional value that their other snacks do. With zero grams of sugar and a low carb count, these will satisfy even the biggest potato chip enthusiast. A box ($24) includes four bags of chicken chips.
Cauliflower Pretzel Sticks
Vegan and gluten-free, From The Ground Up’s take on the classic pretzel ($36) is made from cauliflower and cassava flour—the product of a dried and ground cassava root. With only 1.5 grams of fat and 23 grams of carbs, they’re healthier that traditional pretzels, but still offer the same crunchy satisfaction. With a subtle cauliflower aftertaste, these snacks are available as pretzel sticks or twists.
Leopard Print Swim Shorts
From LA-based Mike Amiri’s eponymous label, a bright, highlighter-yellow pair of boardshorts ($318) for the beach or pool. With all-over leopard print, these shorts are made from an ultra-soft composition of polyester and spandex and feature a safe, sealable back pocket. With an elasticated waistband and a drawstring, each size offers plenty of flexibility.
Ceccile Bikini
Inspired by ’70s design, this delightfully kitsch Ceccile bikini ($277) by Dodo Bar Or evokes the spirit of an endless summer. Covered in bold flowers, the bikini features a high-waisted bottom and off-the-shoulder top. Decidedly retro and playful, the pattern is also available in a midi skirt from the brand.
Pimento Cheese Kettle Chips
Inspired by the famed sandwich that’s been served at the Master’s Tournament since 1934, Lillie’s Q fuses crunchy kettle chips with delectable pimento cheese flavor. The traditional southern staple, which is usually reserved for sandwiches, becomes snackable and sharable in these crisp snacks. Available in packs of 12 5oz bags ($40).
Baobab + Salted Chocolate Nibs Bar
Collaborating with PMIA (Proudly Made in Africa), MIA’s confectionary offerings are made entirely in African countries and benefit local communities. This Baobab + Salted Chocolate Nibs bar ($4) in particular—which employs rich, dark chocolate and baobab powder (a superfood with numerous health benefits) from Madagascar—is slightly salty, but leaves a fresh, red fruit flavor behind. Price is in Pounds.
Bulldog Swim Shorts
Produced with 100% quick-drying nylon, these “geometric watermelon”-patterned Bulldog shorts ($275) are sophisticatedly playful. With Orlebar Brown’s signature belt-fasteners on the waistband, the fit is adjustable. And thanks to a tailored fit and mesh lining, these trunks offer an elevated take on the humble boardshort.
Strappy Carvico Swimsuit
Using a sustainable material developed by Carvico and super-bright colors, Paper London’s rainbow swimsuit (£195) embodies the essence of summer. With an ultra-low back and high-rise leg, it offers a little less coverage than most one-piece swimsuits—thought the braided adjustable straps mean you can alter the neckline. The innovative fabric is also sunscreen stain-resistant and can be thrown in the washing machine.
Rainbow Macaroons
Chewy, colorful and cute, these rainbow sprinkle treats come from NYC-based Danny Macaroons, who started making them for his family. Now, he and his staff make 1000+ a day. For these sweet snacks, long strands of freshly processed coconut lend flavor and consistency. Then there are just four other ingredients: condensed milk, eggs, salt and vanilla. Available in packs of four ($10), they are a delectable and playful treat.
Hero image courtesy of Timo, all other images courtesy of respective brands
