If you’re lucky enough to be heading off to a tropical destination in search of some sunshine, you may have found that the high street isn’t ultra helpful right now in terms of beach essentials. The sun may be starting to peek out from behind the clouds, however it isn’t really bikini weather yet in most parts of Europe!

Some of our favourite early beach essentials from The Outnet

For a selection of chic, on-trend summer essentials, the best destination online is The Outnet. The site stocks over 200 designers, including brands known for their fashionable beachwear such as Melissa Odabash, Allegra Hicks, Zimmerman and Michael Kors. Whether you’re looking for itsy-bitsy bikinis, sexy one-pieces or flattering cover-ups, there’s something to suit all tastes – with up to 70% off too. There are also designer sunglasses and a selection of jewellery and accessories to enhance your beach ensembles.

When choosing items for soaking up the sun or lounging poolside, we suggest picking out one statement item – an embellished bikini or printed kaftan is a good place to start. A cover-up that will take you from beach to bar is a must-have – this pretty (and bang-on-trend) floral dress from American Retro has sheer balloon sleeves and slips easily over swimwear so you’re chic for cocktails in an instant. Plus it’s an item that you could also wear to a garden party or evening out once you’re back from tropical climes.

We think that Tooshie’s ultra glamorous metallic two-piece is possibly the perfect gold bikini; it’s shimmery, not shiny and the colour isn’t too brash or bright. This would suit almost any skintone in fact, and the chic buckle detailing clinches the deal.

If you’re the kind of girl who thinks that wearing heels to the beach is a no-no, The Outnet has lots of pretty flats, gladiators and chic flip-flops on offer. On the other hand if you believe that one should never compromise on glamour, there are some amazing heeled sandals that would look super sexy with a bikini – we adore Roberto Cavalli’s intricate wooden wedges. These chunky platforms will up the fashion stakes when worn with a sheer cover-up or cute beach dress.

Add the finishing touch to your outfit with sunnies and protect your skin with a hat – Albertus Swanepoel’s two-tone woven trilby is a modern take on the classic straw hat. Designer sunglasses are always an ideal investment item, so choose a perenially fashionable style such as these retro-chic tortoiseshell frames from Proenza Schouler.

Et voila; ready for the beach! Plus you can buy all of these items for a lot, lot less if you register for The Outnet’s 1st Birthday Party. For one day only on April 16^th the site will host a pop-up sale where all items will be available at the giveaway price of $1/£1/€1.  Thousands of products will available for this frankly ridiculous price including ready to wear, bags, shoes and accessories.

But as with all of the best parties, you do need to RSVP; you can gain entry by registering on www.theoutnet.com until April 11th. This sale has probably already knocked your very fashionable socks off, however one lucky lady (cue serious amounts of finger crossing) will be chosen at random to preview and shop the sale before the rush ensues. Plus they’ll be ably assisted by a stylist from The Outnet to choose a five-piece outfit for the eye-popping sum of $5/£5/€5!

With the savings you’ll make, you could even afford to stay an extra week sipping margaritas by the pool…