Beach Fashion: What's in for Summer 2011?

Summer is coming up fast, and pretty soon we can turn in our coats and wool socks in exchange for bathing suits and cute sandals. Summer fashion is one of the most fun to play with: you can step out on the beach in a cute dress without worrying about dragging a sweater along, show off your new tan in a halter top and stomp around with strappy sandals in confidence that your feet won't turn into ice after a few minutes.

But before you step out on the beach this year, you may want to give your wardrobe a summer makeover. Going beach-chic in 2011 means being a little bit feminine, a little bit mysterious and very practical. What are some hot summer must-haves for the beach this year? What should you send to the recycle bin? Keep reading!

Tote bags: Au naturale summer fashion

Totes are a must for any beach-goer. But which to keep, and which to scrap?

Love it! This summer, go for a nice breathable straw tote like the Kaylee bag by Straw Studios, $36. Natural patterns are hot this year, so these bags will keep your stuff cool and look fashionable at the same time!

Lose it. Plastic and leather. Not only will these bags traps heat and ruin anything meltable inside, but the shiny, synthetic look is phasing out of fashion for summer 2011.

Sunglasses: Bigger does not mean better

Don't hit the beach without them! But before you go, check out what's gone out of fashion.

Love it! Aviators and wayfarers. These styles are making a big splash in summer 2011 fashion: cute, quirky and just a little bit mysterious! If you don't want to splurge on a $200 pair of Ray Bans, check out some less expensive (around $50 average) styles from brands like Guess.

Lose it. Bug-eyed, oversized sunglasses that hide half of your face. This look can go right back to where it came from-the 1960s.

Sandals: Jewelry for your feet!

Traditional flip-flops are so last summer...

Love it! Rhinestones, a little feminine sparkle. You might not want to bring jewelry to the beach, so get your shine from your shoes! Adorable sandals from David Tate ($75 average) feature rhinestones for just a hint of girly flare.

Lose it. Gladiator sandals. For the love of Fashion, keep these out of summer 2011 fashion. Looking like an ancient warrior is far from summer fashion-forward.