Style Report: Chic Beach Essentials For Your July 4th Getaway

I like to think I’ve mastered the daytime summer look: breezy maxi dress, gladiator sandals, aviator shades and a bold-print scarf. But put me near a beach and I turn into a major fashion victim. Shorts are a no-no, that much I know, but can I wear a sundress as a cover up or is that trying too hard? And what about shoes? Flip-flops are my go-to, but how can I step it up a notch while still chasing after my kids and ensuring they don’t drown? Even makeup confuses me: I try and go natural but end up looking like I have Norwalk virus. Really, what’s a mom to do?

Just in time for July 4th/Canada Day long weekend, I’ve enlisted the help of celebrity hair and makeup artist Paul Venoit (you’ve probably seen him working his makeover magic on Look A Like and The Rachael Ray Show or as a judge on Canada’s Next Top Model) and fashion stylist/L.A. Times Magazine contributing fashion editor Hayley Atkin. If fellow moms Gwen Stefani and Heidi Klum can pull of the “cool beach” look, why can’t I? (Oh, right, because I’m not a top supermodel or rock-star-cum-fashion-designer.) Never mind. These style experts know just what it takes to look effortlessly chic this holiday weekend.

(Photo: KOKOPIX/WENN.com)

[ITPGallery]