Spring Break Essentials

As spring break approaches, our hearts are filled with excitement and joy. Whether it’s a trip to Mexico, or to a sunny California beach, proper planning is vital to an organized and successful trip. The only thing standing in our way is the relentless loads of work that typically restrain our preparations before any trip. Whether it’s a professor or boss, loading up the workload, there is a mile long list of things to get done before you depart. Consequently, our brains are usually so flustered by the time our break starts, that we inevitably forget the most essential wardrobe pieces to any vacation. Luckily, I have the perfect list to keep you looking fabulous from your departure to paradise, and your arrival back home.

1. The Perfect Swimsuit- I have been there. You know, that moment when you’re about to hop into the Jacuzzi only to realize you left your swimsuit at home? Thankfully, this garment is number one on our list for that very reason. Now that you have been reminded to pack yours, let’s talk about what it should look like. First and foremost, it should reflect your personal style. Of course I’m always encouraging all of you take risks when it comes to fashion, but when you have to put yourself in a situation most women (and men) aren’t really comfortable in anyway, you might as well be wearing something that is your own style (even if it does reveal parts of your body you wish weren’t reflected…). One of the worst things is an age inappropriate swimsuit. Most women over 40 (unless you’re Jennifer Aniston) shouldn’t wear a bikini. On the same token, if you’re under 20, and rocking a suit my Nana would deem “too modest”… You probably don’t look very appropriate either.

2.A Large Tote-When traveling, even around the resort, you want to know that you have everything with you. Totes are essential to successful trips because they will hold your life. When selecting a tote, make sure it’s big enough to hold your wallet, keys, mobile, a small cosmetics bag, a towel or that a towel can drape over, and a change of shoes (more on this later in the article). I love natural fibers such as rattan. But if you’re going to go this route, you should choose one with bold hardware and even leather accents, such as ones done by Michael Kors. This will allow your tote to transition from day to dinner. Leather is also a great option. From ecru to caramel, a simple leather tote will take you far. Prints are also a nice addition, but I do recommend staying away from materials too flimsy to last a whole trip (or even day).

3.Maxi Dress/Caftan- This is one of the most versatile items you can pack. Maxi dresses and caftans can be a wonderful statement look while walking around or shopping, but also, pulled over a swimsuit, they can transform your beach look to evening with a simple shoe change and bold cuff bracelet. Not only do they come in comfortable jersey, but with endless variation in patterns, colors, and styles, it seems all these dresses have in common is their prominent floor skimming length.

4.Tunic/Mini Dress- I know, this is second dress on a small list. But trust me, you won’t regret it. As hard workers, have a tendency to play even harder, especially while on vacation. A tunic/mini dress is an ideal look around the clock. For daytime, pair yours with simple flats and your gorgeous new tote. For evening, take your look to next level with strappy sandals and box clutch. All of the sudden your embroidered tunic went from sightseeing to cocktail hour and you don’t have an excess of dirty laundry in your suitcase.

5.Denim Shorts-Just because they’re shorts, doesn’t mean they have to be very short. Denim Bermudas’ are a great look for daytime with gladiator sandals a flowing tops. If you are going to go the short-shorts route, pair them with your shorter tunics or over your swimsuit for modesty on the beach. If you have darker pair of sleek denim shorts, trying pairing them with heels, a tank, and a sequin cardigan. Why not? It’s vacation after all…

6.SPF- This is VERY important. Never leave you hotel room without it! Lots of it. And don’t stop putting it on. Try to aim for a product over SPF 30 with a light ungreasy feeling. I like Clinique’s line of sun protection, but different skin types will gravitate towards different products. The most important thing to remember is that the best way to keep our skin looking good is to prevent sun damage during our younger years. The affects of sun go deep into your skin and sometimes won’t show up for many years afterward. So lather it on, even if you don’t plan on getting too much sun, and you’re future self with thank you. Now go have fun!

A change of seasons always sparks new inspirations and fresh takes on beloved classics. By the end of any season, the novelty of weather depending clothing, starts to wear off. Sure, by August, I cannot wait to pull out my timeless v-neck sweaters and herringbone coat, but even during these crisp February mornings, my brain is yearning for a much warmer, sexier climate.

Spring represents rebirth and new beginnings, so what better time to refresh your wardrobe or louden your fashion voice? Like I always say, I’m the HUGEST fan of black. I always look slimmer, feel more comfortable, and add a little edge when I wear it. But it’s hard to keep this running when everyone around me is switching into neons and florals. Luckily, designers all over are keeping black in their Spring and Summer collections while adding bright pops of color with one of the season’s biggest jewelry trends: bangles! Now, we’re not talking about the cheap looking ones from H&M (although, those *could* be an affordable substitute). Designers are covering this wrist candy with everything from brightly dyed exotic skins, to the latest technology in resin patternmaking.

Speaking of LBDs, the most prominent silhouette for spring has got to be long sleeves, strong shoulders, and an ultra mini skirt. We’ve seen this style explode at almost every premiere event on the most fashionable celebutantes. It’s an exquisite throwback to the eighties, and a fabulous way to show off your gams. Either try a striking color choice like turquoise or magenta, or stick to black and punch it up with some of the aforementioned colorful bangles.

Finally, if you can all recall the denim-legging hybrids I predicted for fall? Well! My goodness have they taken off and going strong as the weather heats up. But don’t forget to try new silhouettes. Choose from drop crotch, to slouchy waists or even puffy pleats. Anything but the ordinary is what we’re going for here. I’m not sure when pants got so boring, but this is the opportune time to spice things up. These intricately designed pants pair flawlessly with silk tank and sky high sandals.

With everything changing these days, it’s nice to know we can always count on spring to come around, giving us the chance to a fresh start. Although we might hold onto a few past trends of season’s past, there is almost nothing more exciting than adding in a few new trends.

-Robinson Maynes

Editor’s Note: Diane von Furstenberg, who has always represented a feminist tone in a somewhat male dominated industry, partnered with Vital Voices (a non-governmental organization which provides women with resources to become business leaders and social entrepreneurs) in distributing woven bangles made by women in Zaire. These beautifully crafted bangles, some with striking ikat motifs, are a great way to punch up any LBD or even a strappy, one-piece swimsuit.