Same Same But Different: We’re Officially on Island Time

Welcome to Same Same But Different. As Gen Z and millennial fashion commerce editors, respectively, we know a thing or two about shopping—for all ages, and especially our demographics. As we find the best products for you, we can’t help but do a little shopping for ourselves and build our personal (age-appropriate) wish lists. And now, we’re sharing them with you. Ahead, check out what’s in our hearts and in our carts lately.

Dale Chong: Despite not having any trips planned for the foreseeable future—more specifically, trips to a warm-weather destination featuring me and a body of water—I find myself browsing through my favorite fashion retailers anyway. My virtual shopping cart has been teeming with pieces that were meant to be seen by fellow travelers, or even star as an extra in someone else’s sightseeing photos. TL;DR; mentally, I’m in Fiji. With that in mind, I’m putting together a summer vacation wish list. Are you with me?

Meg Donohue: Hell yes. I love resortwear. Give me bikini tops and a pair of cut-offs any day! A classic string swim set is my go-to, but everyone needs a strapless option. Blackbough does some really fun prints and styles; I’m a fan of this ruffled bottom in particular. And blame it on my affinity for Baywatch reruns, but I wholeheartedly believe in the power of a one-piece. Hunza G’s classic black suit is my choice pick. As we saunter up to our imaginary swim-up bar, what are you wearing—and ordering? It’s a strawberry daiquiri for me.

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DC: First of all, my order: a spicy mezcal margarita—period. Okay, maybe some salty tortilla chips on the side…

MD: Adding queso to the list. I don’t care if it’s a mess waiting to happen.

DC: As for what I’m wearing, I have a few options I’ll be packing in my carry-on suitcase. A mainstay for me this season has been a classic triangle string bikini from Reina Olga; it’s cheeky and fun—plus really good for my small bust. (I’m a 32A, and this top makes me feel extra confident on pool days.) When I’m not planning to work on my tan (or might need a little more coverage), I opt for this minimalist set from MIKOH. I’ve worn it on a boat with a cute sun hat, and it’s been perfect. And finally, like you, I adore a chic one-piece swimsuit, like this one from Solid & Striped or—for a more glamorous setting—Christopher Esber. Throw on a pair of linen pants or a dress, and you’re ready for wherever the day may take you. What are you sporting after your time in the sun?

Reina Olga Sam Bikini Set

$183 at Free People $91 at Luisaviaroma

MIKOH Strength Shelly Bikini Top

$124 at Revolve $124 at Shopbop

MIKOH Lami High Waisted Bikini Bottom

$104 at Revolve $145 at FWRD

Solid & Striped The Veronica One-Piece

$118 at Solid & Striped $137 at Saks Fifth Avenue $148 at Bloomingdale’s

Christopher Esber Embellished Cut-Out Swimsuit

$292 at NET-A-PORTER $385 at SSENSE $387 at Mytheresa

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MD: When I’m on holiday (as the Brits say), I am a casual soul. Anywhere I can be barefoot, I’m happy. So, jean shorts and a beaded anklet will suffice for most of my days. But it’s hard to top the romanticism of showering after a day of sun and surf, putting on a new dress, and going to a nice dinner. Getting ready never hits harder than it does on vacation. If I do opt for full glam, I have a soft spot for Cult Gaia’s designs. The open back and pearly straps on this knit dress epitomize resortwear. What about you?

Loewe + Paula’s Ibiza Square-Frame Tortoiseshell Acetate Sunglasses

$380 at NET-A-PORTER $380 at FWRD $380 at Loewe

Pura Vida Rainbow Bead Stretch Anklet

Now 30% Off

$8 at puravidabracelets.com

Levi’s 501 Original Fit High Rise Shorts

$125 at Levi $69 at Amazon $69 at Nordstrom

Cult Gaia Cassi Knit Dress

$798 at Cult Gaia $798 at Neiman Marcus

Bottega Veneta Sardine with Chain

$4,900 at Bottega Veneta $3,400 at Nordstrom $4,900 at FWRD

DC: I’m not going to lie, I am probably the most casual when I’m on a vacation. Who am I seeing other than my loved ones?! To your point, there is definitely something to be said about wearing something that would otherwise be out of place back home, like this beaded miniskirt that shimmers with every step.

I’d top it off with a linen button-down shirt and jewelry so I’m cool and comfortable yet still polished. And finally, some boat shoes—I wore block heels on a boat not too long ago, and let me assure you, that was a struggle.