What to pack for 4 unforgettable summer swim days

fashion

One of our favourite things about the lazy, hazy days of summer? Knowing the most important decision we make will be what goes into our swim bag! Staying cool around here means getting wet, and luckily - we’ve got options. From the easy-access of local pools (and friends with pools!) to the beauty of nearby lakes… we’ve rounded up our favourite swimsuits for you and the rest of the family, plus must-have accessories to go with each - so you can all make a day of it!

If your swim day includes: sunning at Grand Beach
Then be sure you pack: a fun and trendy suit that shows off your boho beach style. An easy bikini in a super chic multicoloured floral print will stand out at one of North America’s most beautiful beaches as you play in the waves, dig in the dunes and catch rays in the sand. You’re never too old for beach fun and a cute flutter board and sand tools will keep the whole family busy. Don’t forget to pack some fresh sunnies, a floppy woven hat and fun floral tee for when the sun gets too intense. After playtime, lose yourself in summer’s hottest must-read paperback (hey, it’s not just for teens!).

If your swim day includes: lounging poolside in the city
Then be sure you pack: a sleek and fashionable suit made for sipping cocktails. A strapless tank suit with pretty lace detailing was made for doing very little, as you relax by the pool with a cold drink in hand. Chic accessories like a woven tote, wood bangles and wedge sandals will take you from city streets to deck side in style. All you need is a pair of hip headphones to completely zone out and unwind to some portable tunes.

If your swim day includes: boating in Gimli
Then be sure you pack: a cute and supportive suit that stays put for nautical adventures. Whether you’re sailing out of the harbour, exploring in a fishing boat or just hanging at Gimli Beach, a preppy navy and gold striped halter two-piece sets the tone. Throwback jelly sandals will protect your toes and survive all-day splashing. Throw in a cute kiddie swimsuit, easy stripes for your guy, something to munch on, and a fun Instax camera to capture instant pics of every wet summer memory.

If your swim day includes: watersports at Lake of the Woods
Then be sure you pack: a bright and sporty suit that will go the distance in the waves. A neon flutterkini (yup, that’s a new word!) offers maximum style and makes sure you’re visible on waterskies, paddle boarding, or wherever your water sport of choice takes you. A sturdy boy short bottom will stay put during the action. A rash guard suit to protect the little ones, bright prints for him, and a portable boom box will keep the fun going. Pack an ombre, open weave sweater to ward off the chill during an evening campfire.

PS: Of course it goes without saying that sunscreen is a must for ANY swim bag…so be sun safe and pack yours. Now it’s your turn! Tell us - what are your must-haves for a day in the water?

Visit these St. Vital Centre retailers to shop the looks:

Look #1 (Grand Beach)
Tribal print bikini top: Aqua La Vie en Rose, $39.95
Tribal print bikini bottom: Aqua La Vie en Rose, $34.95
Women’s black sunglasses: Pearle Vision (Ray Ban), $159.95
Women’s purple sunglasses: Pearle Vision (Ray Ban), $164.95
Men’s black sunglasses: Pearle Vision (Oakley), $159.95
Kid’s black sunglasses: Pearle Vision (Ray Ban), $69.9
Flower T-shirt: Buffalo David Bitton, $39
Woven hat: Reitmans, $18
Set of 3 buckets: Chapters, $7.95
The Fault in Our Stars (soft cover): Chapters, $14.95
Shovel and rake: Chapters, $1.95 each
Flutterboard: Chapters, $7.95

Look #2 (Winnipeg)
Women’s black crochet swimsuit: Aqua La Vie en Rose, $59.95
Men’s trunks: West 49 (RVCA), $65
Women’s green sunglasses: Pearle Vision (Bvlgari), $400
Women’s tortoise sunglasses: Pearle Vision (Prismatic), $129.95
Kid’s blue and red sunglasses: Pearle Vision (Ray Ban), $69.95
Multicoloured bracelet: BCBGMAXAZRIA, $79
Wood bangles: Boes, $3.95 each
Wedges: Aldo, $80
Men’s blue and red sneakers: West 49 (Vans), $55
Men’s flip flops: West 49 (Reef), $60
Colourblock woven tote: BCBGMAXAZRIA, $125
Red headphones: West 49 (Skullcandy Crusher), $120

Look #3 (Gimli)
Striped bikini top: Aqua La Vie en Rose, $39.95
Striped bikini bottom: Aqua La Vie en Rose, $34.95
Men’s striped trunks: West 49 (RVCA), $60
Kid’s striped swimsuit: Gymboree, $26.95
Women’s purple sunglasses: Pearle Vision (Ray Ban), $164.95
Women’s aviator sunglasses: Pearle Vision (Ray Ban), $159.95
Jelly sandals: Aldo, $30
Kid’s blue shoes: Gymboree, $28.95
Bag of candy: Chapters, $7
Fuji Instax Mini 8 camera: Black’s, $99.99

Look #4 (Lake of the Woods)
Pink ruffle bikini top: Swimco, $57
Black boy short bikini bottom: Aqua La Vie en Rose, $39.95
Men’s printed trunks: American Eagle Outfitters, $34.95
Kid’s wet suit: Swimco (Roxy), $36
Women’s purple sunglasses: Pearle Vision (Ray Ban), $164.95
Women’s white sunglasses: Pearle Vision (Prada), $245
Swim goggles: Swimco, $20
Men’s silver sunglasses: Pearle Vision (Oakley), $159.95
Kid’s pink sunglasses: Pearle Vision (Ray Ban), $69.95
Blue kid’s sandals: Gymboree, $35.95
Women’s multicoloured crochet top: West 49 (Billabong), $75
Portable wireless blaster speaker: Spare Parts (Nixon), $150
Men’s cap: West 49 (Billabong), $20

*product availability may vary, please check stores for details.

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