Putting Style on the Waves
May 18, 2007
Marie Green is a fashion stylist and writer from San Diego California. She is the former Fashion Editor of FINE Homes and Living Magazine and her column, “Fashion Focus” has appeared in FINE Magazine as well as LaJolla Light, The Del Mar Times, Del Mar Ink, The Carmel Valley Leader, Rancho Santa Fe Record, and The Solana Beach Sun. Marie is also the co-founder of SheWants.com.
Prior to my first surf lesson one year ago, I never had a reason to enter a surf shop. As a stylist, I'd never had a client who was into surfing and my husband always took care of getting our son's surf equipment. I incorrectly assumed surf shops only had wetsuits and surfboards. Imagine my glee as I discovered they carry really great bathing suits, clothing, accessories and so many other cool things.
It all started on a brisk but sunny day last spring. My husband Dennis brought our son, Zachary, to Del Mar Beach for a scheduled surf lesson with the Willis Brothers. I met them there, just to watch. Then, Michael Willis extended an offer for me to "catch a few waves" with them. I laughed and told him, "No thanks, I don't like to be cold." The water was only 61 degrees.
"We'll give you two wet suits to wear layered," Michael said. You'll be warm enough."
I came up with a few more reasons why I couldn't do it, including the fact that I didn't have a bathing suit with me. There was nothing about surfing that ever made me think I could do it, but he had an answer to all of my concerns and finally, I thought, why not?
I quickly walked up to San Diego Beachwear on the street level at the Del Mar Plaza. I had previously shopped there with my daughter, Vanessa, so I knew they had an amazing selection of bathing suits for women and girls, as well as sportswear, accessories and sandals. I purchased a black bathing suit and flip-flops, because of course I wanted to match the wet suits Michael Willis promised me. I thought, at least I will be dressed like I belong on the beach with a surfboard, even if I am totally wiping out. Also, I would get to enjoy the beautiful surroundings, get a little sun and give Dennis and Zachary a few laughs.
We spent about a half hour on the sand practicing surfing essentials, especially "the three-step pop-up." As we paddled out into the water, Michael predicted I would ride the first wave I caught on the board they provided. The Willis Brothers are really into positive thinking.
I didn't think I could even stand on the board, let alone ride it, but he had enough positive energy for the both of us. After letting a few waves go by, Michael said, "Go!" and pushed me out in front of a wave. I paddled fast, pulled myself into a kneeling position, then put one foot forward, planted my back foot and I was surfing. I couldn't believe it! I rode the wave all the way in and was anxious to get the next one. We stayed out for about an hour, which seemed like three, as I completely lost track of time, and returned many times last summer to continue building my skills and having a blast. I discovered surfing is an awesome workout, which is fantastic because fitness is always fashionable.
Now I had an excuse to go to Rusty's Del Mar on 15th Street. At Rusty's I picked up my own wet suit, some plush beach towels with their famous "R" logo, and a St. Christopher Medal -- I thought it would be a good idea to wear it around my neck when I surfed. They carry everything a surfer could possibly need, plus the sales people are friendly and happy to offer advice.
Toward the end of the summer, my husband surprised me with my own surfboard. He bought me a pink 7'6" foam board, perfect for a beginner like me. Since then, many of my girlfriends have taken up surfing. Our kids think we're so hip for getting into it. We are looking very forward to hanging out at the beach and surfing with our families all summer. Oh, and shopping at the surf shops too.
