Sailing Attire

If you're invited to go sailing, of course you want to be the cutest first mate on deck. But what do you wear when an impromptu invitation arises? Do what every girl does. Raid your closet and make an outfit out of what you've got.

Sailing attire doesn't have to be reminiscent of Mr. and Mrs. Howell on Gilligan's Island. Feel free to take a much more relaxed approach to fashion. You can put together sailing attire that will look absolutely darling from what you have on hand. Have a pair of khaki shorts? Cute. How about a striped t-shirt in blue and white or red and white? Super cute. Now throw a scarf around your neck and knot it to the side. Add some Keds sneakers or a slip on pair of dock siders and you've got yourself an outfit.

Don't forget that you will need sunscreen. The wind and sun will wreak havoc on your skin even in just a few short hours of exposure. Layer it on and reapply during your voyage. You'll also want to wear a hat. A cute khaki baseball cap is the perfect accent to your already darling ensemble.

Don't get too carried away with your sailing attire or you may feel out of place. The other guests won't be wearing clothes that look ostentatious, inappropriate or overdone. So go with a casual chic. Bring a big tote bag that you can stuff some sunblock and a bottle of water in. Bring a beach towel and bathing suit just in case there's swimming. You can always turn down an offer for a swim, but you want to be prepared just the same.

It gets cold at night, so bring a pair of jeans and a sweatshirt as well. Leave the ratty ones at home and bring on your best pair of denim and your most elegant sweatshirt. Leave any fancy or expensive jewelry at home too. The last thing you want is for your favorite Pandora charm bracelet to take a tumble overboard. The less sparkle, the better. You want to appear casual and fun loving.

A fantastic pair of sunglasses-worn on your eyes by day and on the top of your head at night-completes the chic get up. No one will look more pulled together than you. Show up with a bottle of something fabulous and some gourmet cookies and you'll be the hit of the sailing party.

Alexander Sutton applies his direct experience and knowledge of the industry to help people enjoy the best values possible. For more information, please visit Sailing Attire.