8 Things Everyone in The Hamptons Is Wearing This Summer

When I tell you that everyone in my share house was itching for the pants above, I’m not exaggerating. Across the board, white linen cargos seem to be the staple of Sagaponack with effortlessly chic hemlines and a low-rise waist. On the beach, I saw them paired with bright bikini tops and Celine sunglasses. Then in town, I saw the pants dressed up with designer accessories that elevated them to feel refined yet relaxed. Unlike the more formal linen whites I was used to seeing at The Palm or Dopo la Spiaggia, this season’s look is all about casual luxury. Think: black Loewe tank, Bottega Veneta square-toe sandals, leather Fendi bag and white linen cargos to top it all off. The fit is flattering for all body types, with just enough structure to look put-together (so it doesn’t feel like you’re lounging in your PJs). 

Bathing suits on Main Beach look more like pieces of artwork—or in some cases, lingerie (see above). I’m talking embroidered details that span from lacey whites and beaded gold medallions to camel crochets and ric-rac ribbons. The suits carry an air of fun sophistication, without veering into kitschy territory. The intricate details also add a layer of interest that feels right at home in the Hamptons (where a plain black bikini and Mets hat simply won’t do).

ICYMI, the ‘80s are back—but in a very Revolve meets Zimmermann way. Surf Lodge on the Fourth of July looked like the coastal version of Studio 54, where influencers were dressed to the nines in silky silver, hot rod pink and zig-zag maxi dresses that made me think of Emma Stone’s let’s dance meme. The ‘80s were all about decadence and drama with sequins, bold colors and over-the-top patterns. Fast forward to this summer, however, and Hamptonites have taken the ‘80s vibe and repurposed it with a contemporary coastal twist. Think funky Missoni-style prints, silk materials and lots of loud, colorful disco energy. 

Barrel-leg jeans were the denim of choice at Shagwog Tavern and Stephen’s Talkhouse for good reason. I spotted the laid-back silhouette all over the streets of Amagansett and Montauk at night, where the vibe skews more casual cool than polished prep. What I love most about the pair from Citizens of Humanity above—which I own—is how they instantly cinch my waist. They’re some of the only bottoms I'd wear with a tiny crop top, thanks to the balloon-like silhouette that offers more than enough fabric (you know, so I don’t look like I’m going to a frat house). They offer that perfect balance of structure and comfort, also making them great for when you’re bloated after scarfing down a lobster roll with a Corona. 

Back in May, I predicted that cabana stripes would dominate backyards this summer. And since fashion and home trends tend to go hand in hand, it makes sense that I saw cabana-striped tops at every corner of Gurneys. Not to be confused with pinstripes, cabana stripes are wider, bolder and far more relaxed. Basically, pinstripes say "office chic," to me while cabana stripes say more, "beachfront bonfire." I also saw an uptick of American heritage tones—navy, red and white—which makes the look feel nostalgic and fresh at the same time. 

It’s no secret that tenniscore is the trend of the summer. Perhaps it was the collective urge to channel Zendaya's performance in Challengers, but everyone in East Hampton looked like they were fresh off the courts from Maidstone Club (though their perfect blowouts signaled that they likely came from Warren Tricomi Salon). Some were oversized totes with a structured leather top handle while others were smaller, canvas and rattan crossbodies with a Positano orange stripe. Either way, they seemed spacious enough to carry all of your beach essentials while giving off a sporty yet refined Princess Di look. 

I know, I know—we all have PTSD from the millennial statement necklace. But as with everything in the Hamptons, these pendants were about striking sophistication. Most featured a rectangular link chain supported by a large, customizable round pendant. They carry an heirloom, almost boho meets Capri factor—fun and eclectic while still looking investment-worthy. And on that note, the finish of choice seemed to be diamonds with 18-karat gold—but if you don’t have $4.4k to shell out for a Foundrae pendant, I’m obsessed with this gold vermeil number from Oak & Luna.

Last but not least: Shoes. More specifically, square-toe sandals, which swept the feet of 20-somethings at Blue Parrot and 50-somethings at Pierres alike. They’ve transitioned from a runway novelty to a must-have staple in Hampton’s wardrobes—all with bold, square-toe fronts and a low block or kitten heel. It’s also worth mentioning that there seemed to be a comeback of the ankle strap this season, and my standout selection was this pair of brown leather flats from Seychelles, which were my go-to for a day-to-night look.