What to wear to the beach

Happy New Year! And what a sweltering start we have got off to in Australia. I did what many millions of other Australians did on New Years day - I went to the beach. And whilst I was there I saw many many crimes against fashion that I felt compelled to pull my self away from the beach to write this. 

It seems that when some people go to the beach all sensible fashion rules go out of the window. So I decided to look to the ultimate Australian beach goddess for tips. That's right, Elle Macpherson, does anyone in Australia on the beach get it more right than Elle does. I'm also impressed by California beach babe Kate Hudson and a few others.

So what can we learn from the ever stylish Elle?

1. Always wear a hat. Not only will it protect your face from the sun (and aging) but it also keeps an unruly messy hair day under wraps and looks stylish. If you don't want to wear a hat, flowers in your hair look cute and add a touch of class.

2. Stick to neutral colours. They are less likely to show up salt and sand stains and blend in with the natural envrionment. They also work fantastic with a tan. Keep colour blocking to one or two colours and mix with neutrals.

3. Be modest. If you are showing off your legs, wear a floaty top. You don't need to advertise everything. This also goes for wearing bikinis and swimsuits that are too small for you or badly fitting.  When you go shopping for bikinis take a friend with you and try buying separates to ensure a good fit!

4. Match your swimwear to your outfit, if you are wearing neutrals, keeps to blacks, greens, creams and matching tones.  Only kids match bright swimsuits to clashing clothing!

5. Get a stylish over the shoulder beach bag that can also be worn out. A straw, linen or cotton bag will work.

6. Get various pairs of sunglasses. Mix designer pairs for 'near' the beach and cheaper pairs when you are active on the beach. No one wants to lose $400 sunnies in the sand. Make sure all sunglasses have the correct UV protection!

7. Work maxi dresses, beach dresses, shorts and skirts like they are going out of fashion. They keep you cool and look good. Take a look at Leighton, Kate and Camilla below. Pure class.

8. Use hair scarfs or wear your hair in a stylish top not. Keeps you cool and makes a bikini look more interesting!

And lastly its just as important for you man to look good too. Tailored shorts, hats and T-shirts are so easy to pull together and avoid anything remotely bogan. Here's my favourite shot of my friends at the moment, all looking very stylish on a 35c day.