
Marc by Marc Jacobs Sam Swim trunks in estate blue, $138 at Nordstrom. No one does abstract like Marc Jacobs, which is why his trunks set the trend.

J. Crew 7” board shorts in Anchor Print, $69.50 at J.Crew. The powerhouse creative team over at this preppy favorite incorporates a nautical motif with tiny white anchors printed atop a rich navy.

Saturdays Surf NYC Colin swim shorts, $65 at Mr. Porter. These mid-length trunks have that cool surfer aesthetic that exudes masculinity.

Gant by Michael Bastian the Gym swim trunk in cadet blue, $115 at Gant. A throwback to gym-class prep, these shorts transition well from beach to pool to boardwalk.

Club Monaco board shorts in Melon Dot, $74.50 at Club Monaco. Polka dots are always a fun option. Just make sure you keep the SPF handy—these will definitely not flatter a sunburn.

Robinson les Bains Oxford short-length plaid swim shorts, $240 at Mr. Porter. With a nod to Americana style, this pair also goes perfectly with a white T-shirt and boat shoes for afternoon cookouts or picnics.

Surfboard-print swim trunks, $58 at Tommy Hilfiger. The designer’s Surf Shack collection doesn’t disappoint with subtle prints like this one. The nautical baby blue pattern complements a tan nicely.

J. Crew 6” Swim Trunks, $39.99 at J. Crew. We always pack a pair of these classics, available in a range of solid colors that mix perfectly with prints and patterns.

Ennis board shorts, $75 at Saturdays Surf NYC. If you want to nail that retro, kinda campy beach party style, look no further than these color-block dandies. Stick with the maroon on red and dark green on emerald for a more cohesive look.

Katin Paradise trunks, $85 at Club Monaco. Part of a limited-edition collaboration with surfwear company Katin, these trunks pull off palm trees without resorting to a too-flashy Hawaiian T-shirt vibe.