The six beachwear items Country Road have got so right this summer.

The sun is shining, the nights are lighter and longer and you can’t (or shouldn’t) go anywhere without slathering yourself in sunscreen. Yes, summer is officially here.

Even though I’ve known it’s coming, the warmer weather always seems to take my wardrobe by surprise. After months of relying on layering and bulkier items, coming up with a beach-appropriate outfit that’s stylish AND practical from what I have already suddenly throws me into an existential crisis that ends with me on the floor along with most of my wardrobe. Not pretty.

You see, there’s a particular vibe I’m trying to channel this summer. Glamorous but effortless. Put together but comfortable. The kind of woman who floats effortlessly down the beach, rather than sweating in the heat and tripping over her thongs in the sand.

Fortunately Country Road has come to the rescue to ensure I at least look the part, with the Aussie favourite once again nailing beachwear fashion. A flick through their summer gifting catalogue has me mentally (and probably very shortly physically, to be honest) restocking my wardrobe. It’s not just gifts to treat yourself with though – there are pieces anyone in the family would appreciate unwrapping under their tree this Christmas. Plus, if you buy them online with PayPal, there’s a massive perk I’ll tell you about a little further down.

Here are my top summer picks:

1. Gathered Sundress, $179.95.

Whether on the red carpet or the streets, orange really is proving to be the new black this summer and quite rightly. It’s fresh, bright and suits all skin tones. The dress itself is linen so it will be beautifully crisp and cool to wear on those hot summer days and nights, the elasticated waist means it’s super comfy and the tie back detailing gives it a little something extra.

2. Woven Detail Panama, $59.95.

If this doesn't scream chic-but-cool woman on the beach, I don't know what does. The wide brim protects your face and eyes from the sun while the black band and detailing around the rim make the classic style look modern and stylish. Wear to the beach or to brunch and keep it on for the bar when you head for drinks later.

3. Poppy Fringe Slide, $79.95.

Fringing has been a huge trend this year, and the newest (and easiest in my opinion) way to wear it is on your feet. The Poppy slides are fabulously fringe-y without being too fussy, and the cream colour means they'll go with anything and everything. Simply slip them on and be on your (very stylish) way.

4.  Stripe Poncho, $49.95

This may be child-sized but we're very tempted to steal it for ourselves. Made from terry cloth, it's the perfect cover up for long days at the beach. Oh, and it's also so very, very cute. It will also make the trip home that bit easier (and hopefully less messy!).

5. Pineapple Print Board Shorts, $79.95.

The perfect gift for the stylish man in your life - or one who needs a little guidance - these tick all the boxes of a great Christmas beach gift. They're fun, fit well, can be worn in AND out of the water and most importantly, are covered in pineapples. What's not to love?

6. Byron Peg Game, $69.95.

Upgrade your family's annual beach cricket game with the ultra stylish Byron Peg game instead. Simply arrange the pins, then use the throwing pin to earn yourself points. The highest wins! All ages and sizes can get involved but warning: you'll get competitive very quickly!

Of course once you look the part, you’ve obviously got to have somewhere to show it off, right?

Country Road are offering shoppers the chance to win the ultimate summer escape to arguably the most iconic Aussie summer location - Bondi Beach. The winner will enjoy the ultimate Bondi getaway, with the prize including a $1500 QT Boutique Hotel Bondi voucher, a $400 voucher for Icebergs Restaurant, a $1500 Flight Centre voucher, two scenic helicopter flights, two Bondi surf lessons, a $200 taxi voucher and a $100 Fishbowl Bondi voucher.

Anyone else planning their outfit already? To be in with a chance of winning, simply use PayPal to shop online with Country Road across Woman, Man, Child and Home. Competition ends 31 December 2017.

This content was created with thanks to our brand partner Country Road.