There’s something so luxe about the Cayman Islands. Grand Cayman is a beautiful, tiny little island with the clearest blue water I’ve ever seen. You can drive around this British territory in just over an hour…it’s that small! It felt super private, especially on Grand Cayman, one of the 3 islands in the Caymans, famous for it’s fabulous beach resorts. A real escape that really isn’t so far away.
How was everyone’s first day of spring? I’m back in NY after what feels like a burst of back-to-back traveling but mentally, I’m still rocking this badass red swimsuit somewhere out in Mexico. Playing with shadows… jumping in the ocean…spending more time behind the lens than ever before. What more can a girl ask for? Every wild experience keeps me inspired to create and write and live and connect with you all. And we all know inspiration doesn’t always come easy after what feels like a long winter of hot toddy’s and oversized sweaters. Spring always gives me a rush of adrenaline and excitement. In with the new, out with the old…and not when it just comes to our closets. I’m excited for my new website (in the works), brand spankin’ new videos (subscribe now) and of course, Los Angeles (even for a few days for an upcoming shoot). Aaah, sunshine. Spring reminds me to take a little hop in my step and breathe a little more. Take more walks along the waterfront. Eat more fresh fruits. Spend more time with friends. Sing more. Take another dance class. Move more. Be inspired. I know, I know…my agenda is crazier than ever lately, and how could I do it all?! Sometimes I can’t even find the time to take that much-needed 1 hour pilates class. But I’m always working for that balance. I like that everyday feels different, especially when waking up in a new city. Tulum was a perfect getaway. I biked every single day. I lived in a bikini and loved the skin I was in, and embraced my body and it’s imperfections. No care in the world. Like I always say, imperfection is beauty. Say hello to spring!
You won’t believe how many bikinis I have tried and tested throughout my years here on NATALIE OFF DUTY and with just modeling alone. Over a decade of super fashionable and chic bikinis have been taken all over the world, but only a few that have held the test of time on countless white sandy beaches with their design. Here are a few that have worked so well for my body, and the various shapes and sizes of my friends. For my boyish body, I try to give myself as much curves as possible. This Vitamin A “neutra” swimsuit I sported in Mayakoba, Mexico has the most unbelievable fit, with still just enough coverage. It’s one of those swimmys to get in every single color, it’s that good. So here are some that could work for everyone who needs a little fun in the sun:
1. Vitamin A: Known for their super classic cuts in beautiful colors. The quality of their swimsuits are amazing, and their designs are timeless. Very Amalfi Coast.
2. Solid & Striped: I love their retro vibe…and of course, killer stripes in gorgeous color schemes. Their one-pieces work best with a simple pair of denim shorts. Beach ensemble complete.
3. Suboo: If you want something unique and stand-out, with great sheers, or ruffles, or cut-outs, Suboo is your swimmy.
4. Mikoh: If you want to go really cheeky…and I mean, literally. Known for their tiny, but beautiful hipsters. It has a super surfy vibe with a sexy, chic twist. They do Hawaiian prints perfectly.
5. She Made Me: crochet, crochet, crochet! She Made Me is handmade. Every single piece seems to feel different, but it’s their neutral soft color palettes that are romantic.
// Vitamin A swimsuit, Shashi NYC bracelet, NARS velvet matte lip pencil in Pop Life //
Currently writing from the Hotel Carmel on the Northern coast in California. I’m so excited to explore this charming little beach town and drive up to the cliffs of Big Sur….even on a rainy New Years holiday. To work from somewhere so calm and relaxing is amazing, before I have to jump back into the crazy NYC groove. These little getaways always get me focused and re-energized for another amazing year to come. A place to fully disconnect. Like here, in some of my favorite looks from Art Basel in Miami. Looks like I’ll be flying back to warmer climates for a shoot in a few weeks before hopping straight into the cold, cold fashion month. I’m savoring these last few days of staring deep into the ocean. Be right back.
// Solid & Striped bikini, Ace & Jig pants, The 2 Bandits earrings //
// Solid & Striped bikini //
26 Comments