It’s that time of year again, when the freezing, huddled masses are given a week or two to shake off the chill of winter in warm and sunny locales. But what to pack? Anna wrote in saying, “I know its spring break for a lot of colleges do you have any outfit ideas for those who are traveling?” We gotcha, Anna. For warm-blooded gals like myself, dressing for the heat is second nature. Here are a few items you should definitely pack before you jet off.
1. Skirts and Shorts
You well know my #1 rule for warm weather dressing is no pants. You’ve been trudging in tights and trousers all winter, it’s time to let your legs breathe! Look for shorts and skirts in crisp whites or bright patterns solid colors. Spring break is the perfect time to experiment with the latest spring trends, so look for Aztec prints and flouro hues this season.
For a strange reason, the longer the skirt, the cooler I feel. Miniskirts are sexy, but sometimes rather constricting. I say, unless they have a relaxed fit, save your minis for the evening when you’re out partying. For day, choose a midi or maxi skirt, but if you must show lots of leg, try a hi-lo hem. Combine with an easy tee, tank, halter, or strapless top and you’re good to go!
2. Dresses and Rompers
Probably the most wonderful thing about warm weather is that you can comfortably wear dresses without having to throw on tights. For day, keep the fit easy and breezy. If you get hot easily, look for frocks with cutouts– they’ll keep you nice and cool. For evening when the temperature drops, feel free to throw on a bodycon dress.
If you’re worried about flashing your underwear, rompers are a fun alternative .
3. Swimsuits and Cover-ups
If you’re headed to a warm spot, you’ll most likely be hitting up the beach. Bikinis and more modest one-pieces are a no-brainer, but if you’re feeling adventurous, try a monokini. They’re a stylish alternative to your run-of-the-mill swimsuits, and they’re slightly less revealing than your average two-piece.
If you’d rather not walk around the beach or pool with every inch of flesh on display, throw on a brightly printed cover up to feel chic and sexy without being nearly naked.
4. Wide-brimmed Hats
Floppy, wide-brimmed beach hats seem to make any relaxed spring break instantly chic. Their wide brims frame the face, bringing an air of mystery and sophistication to your look. Plus, they protect your skin from the sun’s powerful UV rays, so they’re both fashionable and functional.
5. Flat Sandals
It’s always nice to stunt in a pair of sky-high wedges or heels, but I’d say save those for the club. Warmer places tend to require a more relaxed wardrobe. Pack a few pairs of flat sandals. Couldn’t your feet use a vacation as well?
6. Large Beach and Pool-safe Tote
Your hot pink Céline luggage tote is cute and all, but I’m sure most would be loath to carry damp clothes and towels in it. Would you put your precious purse in the way of a young, innebriated gentleman precariously carrying a glass full of rum punch? Thought so. Look for bags made of cotton, raffia, or mesh material– you’ll be glad you did.
And there you have it! Need more inspiration? We’ve got several guides on vacation dressing in our archives so be sure to take those out as well. Do you guys have any other suggestions? What do you carry along when you go on vacation?
~Jihan
March 9, 2012 6:09 pm
yay!!!!! i am sooo excited for warm weather!!!!
March 9, 2012 6:33 pm
I am going to get me a fabulous wide-brimmed sunhats :)
March 9, 2012 6:44 pm
People ask what to wear questions for the most basic things or occasions.
March 9, 2012 11:33 pm
i’d like to find a bag like the one rihanna is rocking for the beach. that definitely steps it up from the average beach bag.
March 10, 2012 10:34 am
Nice showing off the legs when you have good legs *humph*
March 10, 2012 1:44 pm
i love halle’s dresses! ciara’s shorts are too short IMO! even for someone with a bangin body and no cellulite like ciara. she doesn’t look bad from the front but i’m sure she looks stank from the back.
March 10, 2012 3:57 pm
Great post Jihan! I love that you emphasize that a RELAXED fit is necessary. My suitcase for Thailand was a straight up disaster. I am saving this post in case I ever go to warm humid places again.Cheers!
March 10, 2012 8:33 pm
Too bad I spent my Spring Break with the bf in chilly Pittsburgh :-/
At least I have something to look forward to for spring/summer :-)
March 10, 2012 11:04 pm
Sooooo ready for the hotness!!!! Love the looks
March 11, 2012 11:14 am
Great job Jihan
March 11, 2012 11:23 pm
Wish I was home for spring break…. :( loving this deployement desert weather. ill be ready for summer… thank you for the moral boost.