What I would wear as a character in an Elin Hilderbrand novel

As summer unfolds, the abundance of free time can be a dual-edged sword—a cherished respite for the overcommitted, yet a daunting void for those without structured plans. This year, amidst an internship and family trips, my summer promised a laid-back rhythm. I became determined to use this surplus of time to the best of my ability and nonetheless reached for another Elin Hilderbrand novel tucked away at the top of my bookshelf. 

For those who aren't familiar with Hilderbrand's work, Elin Hilderbrand is a Nantucket native renowned for her alluring romance novels that take place on the island. Her written illustration of adventures on my favorite place on Earth makes her undoubtedly my favorite novelist of all time. Right now, I am about to begin reading Swan Song. Much like the title suggests, Swan Song will be her last novel taking place on Nantucket Island, although she plans to work with her daughter on a series set at a New England boarding school. 

Knowing that I am on the brink of Hilderbrand's final storytelling adventure on Nantucket, I feel rather reminiscent thinking about the world I find myself in when immersed in the pages of her work. So, as an ode to the novels I so immensely love, here are five outfits I would wear if I were the main character in an Elin Hilderbrand novel.

Outfit 1

It's not a Hilderbrand without the appearance on Main Street. With this perfect polo sweater, paired with light-washed denim from Retrofete, tortoiseshell sunglasses, and gold accented jewelry, this summer red Ralph Lauren sweater is ideal for any gloomy day scene a character would encounter. 

Outfit 2

A Hilderbrand novel must always have its beach day; if I were in a novel, this is what I would be wearing near the sand. This Same Swimwear set's use of a flower accent puts a fun twist on the classic striped swimsuit and will stand out in any crowd. It is a perfect look for a beach day paired with a coverup and hat. 

Outfit 3

At the climax of the story, when the plot is reaching its most intense moments, there's no better way to alleviate some of the stress than with some good old-fashioned exercise. Luckily, Nantucket's bike paths and abundance of sidewalks make it easy to run, walk, or bike ride almost anywhere on the island. This pink gingham workout set from Astoria Activewear is what I would be wearing to get active on Nantucket.  

Outfit 4

Every Hilderbrand novel contains its perfect dinner scene. For my imaginative dinner, my character would be seen in nothing else but this Charo Ruiz Ibiza dress paired with white espadrilles. 

Outfit 5

It feels fitting to end my last Nantucket outfit in the same place where many of my Elin Hilderbrand novels began: the comfort of my bed sheets. One of the island's most popular stores, Erica Wilson, carries a line of Nantucket-themed pj's.

Thanks for reading!

-Sammie