Kelly Bensimon on haute Hamptons style, plus perfect host(ess) gifts

If you're heading to the Hamptons for a weekend getaway this summer, there are some easy items to get you in the spirit -- and help you look like you have a home behind the hedges.

You never know: A Hamptons magazine photographer may want to snap a shot -- or you may be standing next to Christie Brinkley at a restaurant or boutique.

But if you're just in the mood for something casual and low-key, the Hamptons has it all, from kiteboarding to clamming to bonfires on the beach. With the right look, it's easy to pack.

I always pack a sweater and a cute dress (I love the floral Canyon Clover neoprene dress at Blue & Cream, which has locations in Manhattan and out east), plus a festive pair of Havaianas flip-flops. Also on my list: A nautical-inspired tee by Saint James and a pair of print capris or khakis from J.Crew.

I also love Denim & Supply by Ralph Lauren's dresses, which are great for all shapes and sizes. Flowing and romantic, they're perfect for summer -- especially at the drum circle off Sagg Main Beach on Monday nights. Add an army jacket or a fun printed barn coat, and you have a cool look.

For a day on the sand, I'm obsessed with Charlie by Matthew Zink. His bikinis are colorful and sexy, and his leggings and flowing shirts make the transition off the beach hot, sexy and fun.

Gotta run -- time to pack.

PERFECT HOST(ESS) GIFTS

If you're lucky enough to have friends invite you to stay at their home out east, you definitely need to bring a gift.

You can offer the re-launch of my first book, "In the Spirit of the Hamptons," a beautiful home accessory from Aerin (which just opened shop in Southampton), monogrammed towels (I always monogram everything with the number of the house) or a beautiful Hermes coffee cup from Turpan in East Hampton.

If you want to go to the wine route, pick up a bottle of Andre Balazs' Sunset Beach Rosé (available at Andre Balazs hotels) or a white wine from Wolffer Estate Vineyard in Sagaponack.

Hosts with a sweet tooth will also love an assortment of "sour sushi rolls," a special recipe from my daughter, Teddy: Sour Patch candies rolled in sour belts from Dylan's Candy Bar.

And don't forget that home accessories store C. Wonder has two shops out east -- one in Southampton and one in East Hampton.

Follow Kelly on Twitter @KellyBensimon or visit kellykillorenbensimon.com.