As the Fahrenheit rises and vacation season gets into full swing, swimsuits, caftans and accessories emerge with retro-inspired flourishes. Local designers such as Beek sandals embrace a classic silhouette, and Tommy Bahama and Tory Burch give a nod to nostalgic prints and vintage cuts. For this season’s poolside fashions, it’s going to be anything but a cruel summer.
Dior glams up the classic aviators with a swash of unexpected color. The DiorSplit sunglasses ($555) feature pink mirrored lenses with gold tone metal inserts. Available at Dior, South Coast Plaza. :: dior.com
The Beach Boys catapulted huarache sandals into mainstream fashion with their song “Surfin’ USA.” But Ix Style’s handwoven leather versions ($89), crafted by Mayan artisans, spread good vibes. Each purchase allows the company’s founder Francesca Kennedy to help provide clean drinking water to Guatemalan children in her native homeland. :: ix-style.com
Tommy Bahama’s laid-back aloha vibe gets revamped with a touch of preppy chic for this Greta Garbo-esque navy and white gingham one-piece suit ($148). Available at Tommy Bahama, Irvine Spectrum Center. :: tommybahama.com
These ’60s bohemian-style platforms make big strides this summer with refreshed models, including navy leather Positano lace-up espadrilles ($350). Available at Tory Burch, South Coast Plaza. :: toryburch.com
Vivienne Westwood celebrates her earlier work by reviving prints from her 1994 collection. An antique blue porcelain print is restyled with vigor on this low-back Anglomania Propaganda swimsuit ($322). Available at Anastasia Boutique
in Laguna Beach. :: anastasiaboutique.com
Celebutante Victoria Beckham spiced up her eyewear collection last year by collaborating with luxury lens manufacturer Zeiss. For these Classic Victoria Perforated Leather aviators ($980), the mirrored lenses are accentuated with handmade 18-carat-gold metal frames and a sleek perforated leather brow bar. :: victoriabeckham.com
Newport Beach-based Beek sandals meld craftsmanship with comfort. Co-founders Kenna Bertell Florie and Birgit Klett created the Cardinal ($320) with vegetable-tanned, handmade leather that molds to your foot and gets more cozy with each wear. Available at A’maree’s in Newport Beach. :: amarees.com
Inspired by the mosaic tile work of ancient Pompeii, Tory Burch’s tunic ($325) blooms with indigo and lilac floral details. The silk crêpe de chine kimono-sleeved cover-up doubles as a flowing top. Available at Tory Burch, South Coast Plaza. :: toryburch.com
Former reality TV personality Lizzie Rovsek channels her OC lifestyle and years rocking the pageant scene with her latest line of swim wear. She reinvigorates the sexy ’90s “Baywatch” look with a corseted backed Naked Goddess one piece ($172). :: sunkittenswimwear.com
Designed by Ralph Lauren for the 2016 Rio Olympic Games, the Team USA sailcloth tote ($398) boasts a patriotic color scheme with nautical flair. Available at Ralph Lauren, South Coast Plaza. :: ralphlauren.com