Ask Chris Black: What Stuff Do You Always Bring to the Beach?
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If you’re looking for the most powerfulhair dryeror handiestchef’s knife, those things can be easy enough to find. Other objects of desire are a little more taste-based. What’s the next statuswater bottleorhand wash, for instance? Regular readers of the Strategist will know that we’ve previously turned to resident Cool GuyChris Black(he’s a partner at brand consultancyPublic Announcement) to help us answer both of those questions. For more of Chris’s advice, he’s now answering reader questions for us in a regular column. If you have a burning question about the next fanny pack or Noah rugby shirt, drop us an email with the subject line “Ask Chris” at strategist@nymag.com.
Recently, a veteran beachgoer told the Strategist about herutilitarian essentialsfor aday on the sand. Which got me wondering: What products does a stylish dude like yourself never hit thebeachwithout?
Ah yes, a beach day. Nothing likeroasting in the sunwhile trying to simultaneously look at Instagram with subpar Wi-Fi. Who doesn’t love it?
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As an extremely pale person who has left thesandlooking like afire engineone too many times, I now make sure mybeach kitincludes some luxe sunscreen. Chanel UV Essentiel will keep your nose from looking like Rudolph’s. It smells incredible, and it’s also very light and quick drying. I only use iton my face. The Aesop Protective Body Lotion will keepthe rest of your skinprotected and smelling like a stylish, minimalist apothecary. Aesop is a blue-chip brand that I trust; I simply walked into the store asked what sunscreen they had and bought it. No comparison shopping needed.
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Maybe you are looking to BRONZE. If you want to encourage a deep, dark, tropical tan, put on yourtiny batherand slather some of this on your pectorals. Nothing says “beautiful tan” like Tom Ford, the man and the brand. A disclaimer: I have not used this product, but I probably would.
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When you become overheated and need a breakbetween chaptersofNormal People, pull this out and soothe your face with arefreshing spritz. A couple of hits and your skin will feel moisturized after a day ofcooking in the sun.It’s also great for the plane!
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You will, of course, have tohydratecontinually. I fill up my Snow Peak Kanpai — the Rolls Royce ofwater bottles— withcold waterbefore I leave the house, and it stays cold for roughly six hours. Refreshing!
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You are going to need atowel, obviously. If you’re staying at ahotel, it will likely provide one, but I think it’s nice to make a statement with your own. This Missonibeach towelwill dry you off and telegraph your support forItalian family-owned businesses. It’s a not-so-subtle way to stand out among the more basic towels of your friends and fellow beachgoers.
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If you are afilm buff, A24 (the studio behind the new folk-horror flickMidsommar) has a Widescreen Beach Towel that will let other beachgoers know you are happy to discuss this season’s Oscar contenders with them when you needa break from the sun.
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This sand-colored tote from Engineered Garments can beslung over your shoulder, and would easily fit all of thesebeach essentials(it’s also sold innavy). The brand doesn’t skimp on quality, and its products always feature just enough interesting detail to make them stand out without being loud or obnoxious. Quiet luxury, it’s a lifestyle.
I’ve never been much of ahat guy, but I’m headed to some hot places this year and thinking I should get abaseball cap(which seem to be your headgear of choice). I’m intrigued by a Noah cap, but I worry people will think my name is Noah. What are some others you like?
I have mentioned this on the World Wide Web before, but my summer look is “Ivy Sport.” The goal is to look like atennis playerwho has been kicked off the tour. Or maybe I am a slightly disheveled pro at an exclusive beachside club, having an affair with a member’s wife. I don’t know!
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Nike AeroBill Featherlight Cap
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For even moreprotectionfrom the sun, Beams Plus has you covered with this long-billedfishingcap. Don’t be afraid to make a statement, summer is the time for experimentation!
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If you didn’t get into Central St. Martins, but love ketamine, warehouse raves, brutalist architecture, and youactuallybuy things at Dover Street Market, an Affix hat is a must-have (if you like this one, act fast, because it’s on sale).
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Whentraveling, I think it is always necessary to let people know that you are a card-carrying member of the liberal coastal elite! Thankfully, the paper of record makes a hat that just says Manhattan. It is a thing of beauty.
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Or, if your idea of a perfect evening is enjoying apicnicwhilecryingto The National playing live, this Hollywood Bowl hat is perfect. It would also look great while picking up a fresh loaf ofBub & Grandma’ssourdough at Cookbook in Echo Park, while your cutechildanddogwait in your BMW station wagon.
The Strategistis designed to surface the most useful, expert recommendations for things to buy across the vast e-commerce landscape. Some of our latest conquests include the bestacne treatments,rolling luggage,pillows for side sleepers,natural anxiety remedies, andbath towels. We update links when possible, but note that deals can expire and all prices are subject to change.
