Motif Madness: Beachcomber

To “beachcomb” is to look for things of value, interest, or utility along the beach. The original beachcombers were mostly unemployed European sailors who lived in coastal communities in South Pacific island countries in the mid-1800s. Nowadays, it’s not uncommon for seaside vacationers to refer to themselves as beachcombers.

I’m neither an unemployed sailor nor a seaside vacationer. This beach is a short stroll from my home. If I so wished, beachcombing could be an everyday activity. But so could just relaxing on the sand and enjoying the activities happening around me.

As a motif inspiration, I imagine a beachcomber being a bit carefree about their attire. Wearing what’s comfortable, familiar, and utilitarian. Nothing too matchy-matchy. A mashup of patterns and colors. Tropical and camo anyone?

My oversized white shirt provides me with some protection from the sun as well as against the chill of a late in the day onshore breeze. The multiple pockets of my cargo capris can hold all sorts of treasures as well as a house key and cellphone. A scarf on my wide-brim hat that in a pinch could be used as a mask if the beachcomber crowds refuse to maintain proper social distances. In reality, there hasn’t been much danger of that.

Good thing that ugly sandals are so hot this summer ‘cuz these would definitely not win any beauty contest. They were the right price, though, and a necessity for the walk to and from home. And what beachcombing outfit would be complete without a straw bag to hold a towel, sunscreen, and hand sanitizer?

While I may lack in some of the typical beachcomber characteristics such as being male, very tan, and spending a lot of time in the water, that’s just proof that we can define ourselves as we see fit. This beachcomber enjoys the value of time spent watching the waves roll up on the beach or walking in the sun-warmed sand. Sartorially speaking, you may or may not be seeing beachcomber inspired collections in any upcoming S/S 2021 fashion week runway shows but if you do, remember that you saw it here first. Come stroll along the beach with me.

Be well and let’s connect! Subscribe, tweet, follow, friend, love, pin … all options are available and waiting for you. I look forward to hearing from you.

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