MONTAUK MEMORIAL DAY: WHAT TO PACK, WHERE TO GO

Where do all the New Yorkers go for Memorial Day Weekend... to the Hamptons of course!  While I usually head to my parents beach house in New Jersey to commemorate summer's beginning, this year I will be headed to the very popular, over-populated town of Montauk. I haven't been out East (that's what New Yorkers say as code for the Hamptons) in over a year now. The first time I ever headed to the Hamptons was several years ago and I was unsure as to what to expect. I pictured federal-style mansions, fancy foreign cars and ladies in their Sunday best at all times. However, I was slightly surprised. It is unusually laid back, but retains its glamour with fine dining and swanky dinner parties to attend. Now, rest assured, Montauk is different than its western neighbors like East Hampton and Amagansett. It is a bit more laid back and the crowd is less families and more couples sans children or newly graduated youngin’s looking for their first-time Montauk fun. If you happen to find yourself heading "out East" this weekend, you too are most likely racking your brain for just the right outfit to announce the arrival of summertime magic. This is my personal packing list and will have you covered for your Hampton beach days:

Early Morning Rise

Montauk fun starts immediately following your morning coffee. After your Love Yoga session, you will want to make sure you look chicly sweaty while grabbing your smoothie at Joni's. Be sure to pack a chic workout look that sides more with edgy sophistication than hum-drum black.

Brunchin' Babe

Before heading to La Brisa for some Mexican fare, be sure to keep your uniform beachy and on-trend. While I am sure Gucci mules will be everywhere, I am going to steer towards a more laid-back vibe and don a tasseled sandal with some distressed denim and a fun, flouncy top. No swimsuit required this weekend when highs will reach around 65.

Dinnertime Fun

Beach-side dinners always turn into late night drinks, so dress accordingly. Before heading to the many Montauk options like Navy Beach, South Edison, The Hideaway or Crow's Nest, make sure you bring a light jacket. I like this robe option , but again I will retain a laid back vibe and jazz it up with some fun earrings or jeweled sandals.

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Overall, expect to see lots of high-fashion labels known for casually chic clothes like Ulla Johnson, Isabel Marant and Nili Lotan. Wishing everyone safe travels this Memorial Day Weekend!!!