Prepare for Instagram domination
The British summer may be officially over, but if you're lucky enough to be going on a last-minute beach holiday, then there's no reason to have a slap-dash approach to your swimwear. Why wouldn't you look as glam on the beach as you do off it?
And what better place to get beachwear inspo than on the French Riviera, which is exactly where Marie Claire's Fashion Director Jayne Pickering headed to discover the new swimwear brand that's about to litter your Insta feed: Lelloue.
The inspiration behind the brand? Finding the perfect destination pieces that worked equally hard for both day and night. Lelloue designer Amy Molyneaux explains, 'I wanted to help created a brand that had versatility, allowing you to build your look from a bikini to a gown depending on your plans.'
Lelloue Business Developer Helen Johnson adds, 'The collection is based around classics, we wanted to create something for everyone – even down to considering which looks matched peoples hair colours best!'
There is a bit for everyone in collection, from classic nautical styles to black and gold separates for those who want to make a statement on the beach, and it certainly got Jayne's seal of approval, 'The collection was a combination of glamorous fabrics and fabulous styles ranging from great swimwear to gorgeous evening wear,' Jayne says.
Here are her top five pics, and how to style them.
Love Lace – Kaftan
Helen: This is one of my favourite pieces, it has it all! The only things you need to add are the right accessories. My picks, big gold loop earrings and metallic open toe mule.
Amy: It’s beautiful; I love the long and low lines – perfect with a tiny choker necklace and bare feet for me.
Sailor Girl – Shirt
Helen: Loosely buttoned with a skinny knotted belt on the beach but add a long necklace and espadrilles for a casual lunch. Take a pair of heals if you are moving from the beach into the evening.
Amy: To create a glamourous beach to bar look, add a giant shopping bag and a diamond belt.
Sailor Girl – Striped Flares
Amy: I love the flares, wide-legged trousers are very cool at the moment but in my eyes they always have been in style. Add a bra top in clashing print with a turban and big sunnies.
Helen: They are perfect for a day with the girls... shopping & lunch! Simple white t-shirt or teamed with the Lelloue ruffle spotted shirt (Also, from the ‘Sailor’ collection).
I agree with Amy on the accessories, a chunky necklace, stripe turban from the ‘Sailor’ collection and slip-on loafers would complete this look.
Sailor Girl – Knot Bikini
Amy: You can pair this bikini with an open shirt and oversized metallic shorts. For cooler evenings, throw on a bomber jacket.
Helen: I like the Lelloue striped shirt with this bikini! I would add statement necklaces if you are heading straight from the beach for a cocktail or two.
Wrap Top and Skirt
Helen: Pair it with a matching Lelloue leopard headband, big earrings & your favourite pair of designer sunglasses. You’ll be ready for sundown drinks or an early dinner.
Amy: Don’t forget your vertiginous heels and red lips!