GRAY MALIN X SPLENDID

First, a few notes about this caftan by Gray Malin for Splendid. It’s so light and airy, easy breezy and classic, I love it! I foresee wearing it everywhere from Palm Springs to Nantucket this summer.

I wore it as a dress, with a slip underneath. But you could also wear a swimsuit underneath and wear it as a coverup. It’s quite versatile.

For day, I’d just toss on a simple flat sandal. For evening, if you’re going to dinner, a simple block heel and maybe a cardigan or wrap and you’re all set.

Fit Tip:

I’m wearing a size Small, but an XS would probably be even better. If you’re between sizes, size down.

SHOP THE LOOK:

Caftan: Splendid x Gray Malin Playa Stripe Caftan c/o | SUNGLASSES: Amazon or Matches Fashion | Boater Hat: Hats by Oliva c/o

IMPERIAL SAND DUNES

We’ve shared photos from the Imperial Sand Dunes before (also known as Glamis). It’s an amazingly beautiful place and the largest off-highway vehicle  recreation area for sand dunes in the Unites States.

They’re about a 2-hour drive from Palm Springs, in the middle of nowhere.

If you’re a big fan of Dax Shepard and Monica Padman’s podcast, Armchair Expert, these are the sand dunes Dax is always talking about and where he takes his family. And no, we didn’t see Dax or Kristen Bell, but we did see some adorable little girls on little dune buggies of their own.

WHEN TO VISIT THE IMPERIAL SAND DUNES

On our first visit to the Imperial Sand Dunes in May 2018, we were the only people there. Apparently it was off-season. I don’t remember if it was hot or cold last time (I think a little cold) but I do remember the wind was SO crazy we only got out to snap pictures.

This time, it was a completely different experience, as it was “the season.” The season is October 1 thru April 15th each year.

Permits are $35 if purchased in advanced or $50 if purchased on-site when you arrive. Season permits are $150.

You can buy permits online here.

It was packed, but we were able to find a spot to pull over in Sally Tomato, have lunch and frolic in the dunes and shoot photos. We also rolled down the hill, which was supremely fun, even if we did keep finding sand in unmentionable parts days later.

So, when you decide to visit depends on what you’re going there for. Photos, but you’re ok with wind and non-optimal weather? Go off-season. Want to ride dune buggies? Go in-season. I should also mention that it’s free when you go off-season. Bonus.

WHAT IS GLAMIS LIKE?

Talk about total culture shock.

Tons of people with RVs who pull their dune buggies out to ride the dunes. While I wouldn’t typically think of this as my jam, I have to admit it looked really fun.

There were places you could rent dune buggies, but we had Odee with us and I’m pretty sure you can’t bring a pup on a dune buggy.

While the name Glamis might conjure up glamour, this is full-on camping type accommodations, i.e. not luxury, just so you know before you go.

Have you been to Glamis/The Imperial Sand Dunes?

I’d love to hear all about it!

PHOTOS by FRED MOSER

Sign up for sunshine in your inbox:

Keep in touch!

INSTAGRAM
PINTEREST
TWITTER
FACEBOOK