BuyDay Friday: Five Stylish Beach Essentials

Boden’s Summer 2013 catalog landed on my doorstep this week, packed with colorful pieces that are perfect for a Caribbean getaway. boden Here are five fab beach essentials from the British online retailer that I’m craving for my next trip. Hot Tip: Score free shipping and 15% off regular prices until 11:59pm on April 28. See site for deets.

1. Jersey Maxi Skirt ($88)

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A patterned maxi skirt isn't easy to find but this one ticks all the boxes. It comes in long, regular and petite (yay!) sizes 2-18, in two patterned colorways plus plain black and brown. I can TOTALLY see wearing this with a T or tank and a bold necklace to dinner at the resort or rocking it over my swimsuit for a casual lunch or jaunt into town. I'd also pair it with a T and denim jacket for the flight home.

2. Toulon Tunic ($78)

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Boden's well-known for their tunics and kaftans, but this one is my favorite. Just look at those colors! Throw this crinkle-cotton cutie on over your swimsuit, and if you're short like me it can also work as a sundress with a cute pair of ballet flats or espadrilles. In cooler months try pairing it with leggings or skinny jeans. I'd even be tempted to layer it over a thin black turtleneck and wear it all winter long.

3. Ruched Tankini Top (currently on sale, $37.40) and Bottom (currently on sale, $28.90)

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Sure, you could pick up these pieces in plain black (yawn!) but why would you when you could have it one of four fun patterns, including my fave, Multi Jungle Flower. The strap's detachable, and there's concealed tummy support, too.

4. Fine Cashmere Jumper (that's "sweater" to all the Americans out there!) $198

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Think you won't need a sweater on a Caribbean vacay? Think again. This super-fine cashmere number looks thin enough to wear in tropical climes yet substantial enough to ward off the chill when you're out cruising the Caribbean on a breezy day, dining in an aggressively air-conditioned restaurant, or stuck in a too-cool aircraft cabin. It comes in three striped colorways, the brightest of which, is, of course, my favorite.

5. Semi-Precious Necklace (currently on sale, $32.30)

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OK, so maybe a whole new vacation wardrobe isn't in the cards. I'm a staunch believer in the power of accessories to amp up an outfit, delivering a whole lotta bang for relatively few bucks. This fun necklace also comes in a green/blue colorway and would look great against a simple white T. And at this price, it's a nice little treat that won't break the bank.

 

 * All product images from the Boden website