Adrianne's Summer Must-Haves

Adrianne: Chief Aesthetic Strategist, Beach Division, Director of What Looks Good and Works Better—and Beyond!

I believe in form over function AND  function over form. In other words, it has to work, but it also has to be beautiful—If it’s not both, it doesn’t last. Because let’s be honest: if something’s ugly, it gets tucked away in a drawer and forgotten. But if it’s gorgeous, it earns its place on the table or counter—you’ll use it, and so will everyone else. 

That’s the sweet spot. 

These are the summer things I swear by: chic, purposeful, and deeply enjoyable. They’re what I pack, display, and reach for—again and again.

Let’s get into it.

 

🏖 Beach Essentials to Pack, Wear & Flaunt

Summer’s  more than getting a tan—it’s a vibe. You need gear that travels well, performs better, and looks great doing both. As the official Director of What Looks Good and Works Better, I’ve compiled a list of the things I grab every single time: thoughtfully designed, seriously functional, and gorgeous enough to set the tone for the day before you even step on the sand.

  1. Classic Fouta Terry Towel – Turkish-T in light blue 
    Why: This is the towel I toss in my tote every time. It’s whisper-thin, dries fast, and takes up almost no space—perfect for boats, spontaneous swims, or back-of-the-jeep beach runs. Soft as a cloud and the best color palette in the game.  Photo

  2. Hanalei Beach Towel – Kassatex 
    Why: Want to impress, on sand or poolside? This is the one. In a sea of overwashed stripes and faded brights, this towel is plush, elegant, and unforgettable. The deep contrast against sun-tanned skin? Chef’s kiss. This is towel luxury that lasts wash after wash. Photo (pick the dark one)

  3. Chardonnay SPF – For Lips 
    Why: If you’re a lip-gloss addict like me, SPF on your lips is non-negotiable. This one smells like your favorite flan, actually works, and makes people smile at the name. Chic tube, no weird residue, and no regrets under the sun. Photo

  4. Canvas Bags – Lands’ End
    Why: These bags are so chic for the price it’s almost rude. All-black zip-top (XL) for towels and toys, all-white zip-top (small) for lip balm, phone, SPF, and snack packs. Look like you know what you’re doing—without spending like it. These totes say “well-traveled, well-packed.” Photo


🏡 Home Entertaining Group

Let’s be real: it’s all about the tablecloth. Yes, the food matters. Yes, company should feel easy. But the moment your guests walk in, it’s the table that sets the stage. A great tablecloth isn’t just decoration—it’s atmosphere, a signal something lovely is about to happen. It can whisper elegance, shout celebration, or casually suggest “we do this all the time.”

And no—it doesn’t have to be a fancy event. Even if it’s just takeout or an afternoon snack, the mood still matters. Because when the table looks considered, everything else feels a little more special. A playful cotton print can make oatmeal feel like a moment. A soft linen drape can turn leftovers  cinematic.

So—let’s lay these down:


1. The Cuteness

This one is pure delight. Use it once, and your friends will come back just to sit at that table again. The playful fish print is cheerful without being cutesy—nostalgic, a little retro, and somehow very now. Perfect for summer lunches or birthday brunches. A total mood. Photo

2. The “Don’t Be Afraid of Red”

Red can feel risky, but this one is your boldest, happiest yes. It’s bright and punchy without being overwhelming—the perfect pick-me-up for a sleepy afternoon. Pair it with peaches, prosciutto, and laughter. Beige will feel boring after this. Photo

3. The Sophisticated

This is my ride-or-die when I want to impress quietly. Soft mystery, old-world charm—Maison’s gingham and linens channel French tradition. When in doubt—or when your guest list is...interesting—throw one of these on. You’ll look like you planned it all along. (Warning! Pricey) Photo

4. The Frenchy on a Budgety

This gives you safe, stylish, French-inspired design—without the boutique price tag. Pottery Barn nails that tactile cotton and artful detail, nodding to traditional French linens. When you’re not sure who’s coming—or what mood to set—go French. It’s calm, classic, and whispers, “je suis organisée.” Très chic, très easy. Photo

5. The “OH MY GOD”

When I want drama—the good kind—this is the one. Spread it out, and people stop mid-sentence to ask, “OH MY GOD, where did you get that?” It’s bold, romantic, and utterly unforgettable. I use it for those twilight dinners that start with rosé and end with deep conversation. Every meal becomes a story. Photo


🌞 Skin Things That Get Passed Around at Parties

You know the ones—those products that sit on the counter like sculpture. The kind your friends try once and immediately text you for the link. These are the summer heroes: pretty enough to display, powerful enough to earn their place in your daily rhythm.

This is how we treat our skin when the sun’s high and the nights run long. We care for it, show it off, and help it recover after too many boat days, beach walks, and golden hours spent outside. These are the things I pack, place, and use—again and again.

1. Petty Grudges 

Why: Keep this by your bed. It’s your overnight hero—a plush, serious face oil designed to undo the day’s sun and stress. After cleansing, massage in a few drops and forget it. By morning, your skin looks like it spent the night at a spa, not on a pillow. This is what face oils were made for: to work hard. It’s perfect for nighttime recovery. Think of it like a plant—when your body is working less, your skin can work more. (During the night, while you’re asleep—hello!) Photo

2. Supergoop SPF Face Powder 

Why: This is the trick. You’ve already done your makeup. You look great. But it’s 2 p.m. and SPF waits for no one. Instead of disrupting your whole look with a cream, this powder refreshes protection in one elegant swipe. No mess, no smudge. Just a soft matte finish and invisible coverage that fits in your bag and earns its spot. Photo

3. Sea Chrome

Why: Post-shower, pre-cocktail. It hydrates, tightens, and smells like self-assurance. The bottle is too beautiful to hide—which is exactly the point. Use it often, let it live on your counter, and feel that moment of ritual every time.“If it’s visible, it’s usable.” Photo

4. The One Daily Sun Cream 

Why: This is your leave-the-house SPF. I use it in the morning—after face oil, after moisturizer, and before makeup. It’s smooth, lightweight, and gives that gorgeous, lit-from-within finish. Bonus: the bottle is stunning. Looks good, feels better, and makes you actually want to apply sunscreen. Photo

Stay radiant, stay ready.
See you under the sun,


Adrianne
Head of Brand, Biography