I don’t know about you, but I am so over all the cold weather and snow we’ve had this winter. Spring break cannot get here fast enough, especially if, like me, you’re going somewhere warm and tropical. If not, there’s always next year. Or you could try turning the heat up really high and watching the classic Mary-Kate and Ashley movie Holiday in the Sun to make it feel like you’re on vacation.
If you’re lucky enough to get away for the week, you’re probably thinking about what to pack, but it’s hard to imagine yourself in shorts and tank tops when it’s 30 degrees outside. Not to worry, I am here to give you an all-inclusive guide to spring break packing.
1. Sunscreen
This is incredibly important because you’ve probably spent the majority of the past four months inside so your skin is as pale as a ghost and even more susceptible to burning. You don’t want to be a lobster all week – that’s just painful and unattractive. The spray on kind is convenient if you don’t want to deal with sticky, sandy hands. And if you have sensitive skin, use baby sunscreen; it’s designed to be the most gentle with the most protection.
2. Hats and sunglasses
Not to continue to be a mom, but as my mother tells me, sun protection is important! Get sunglasses with UV protection to shield your eyes from the sun’s rays. I know hats aren’t for everyone, but they shade your face from the sun and there are so many styles to choose from. A big, floppy straw sunhat with oversized sunglasses can make you feel like a diva. Or get some aviators and a baseball cap for the casual, sporty vibe.
3. Bathing suits
This is an obvious one, but I’ll show you some cute styles for this year to get you inspired. There are so many to choose from – animal, tribal, crochet, bandeau, triangle, tankini, one piece – so it’s important to pick what looks best on your body – don’t worry about how it may look on the models!
4. Cover up
Cover ups aren’t essential, but they’re great to wear while you’re walking around a resort or sitting at the poolside bar. Rompers are very in right now and this tropical print one will definitely make you feel like a beach goddess. The crochet and knitted cover ups are great for showing off your suit and some skin without being too revealing, which is great if you’re going to be walking around indoors before you hit the beach. I love a cover up that can double as a sundress because you can dress it up and get double the wear out of it.
5. Denim shorts
I don’t think anything looks more beachy than worn denim cutoffs, especially paired with a crop top. Light washes look great during the day time, and black is great to wear out at night. You can go for the high waist or low, whatever looks best on your body. White or other bright colors add something fun and different.
6. Crop tops
Like I said, crop tops are great to wear with high waisted denim, or high waisted anything. You can get them fitted or loose; simple or printed; light or dark and they’re so easy to mix and match with. They’re great for warm weather when you want to show off a little skin when you go out without feeling like you’re still wearing a bikini.
7. Skater skirt
Skater skirts are very popular right now. They’re great to wear with crop tops, and they’re great at hiding any unwanted curves. Because they start at the smallest part of your body and the loose material lays on top of your widest part, the look is highly flattering. If you’re sick of the body con club outfits, skater skirts are the ones for you.
8. High-low chiffon skirts or dresses
I know what you’re thinking, high-low has been around forever, aren’t we done with this look? The answer is no and the reason is because it’s a simple, flattering look perfect for warm weather. Chiffon is an airy material that allows you to be covered up without feeling stifled. You can get the look in a dress or a skirt, and pair it with a crop top or simple tee.
9. Maxi dress
Maxis are a wonderful invention because they are so comfortable, but they instantly make you look more dressed up. These dresses are perfect to wear out to dinner on a warm, breezy night. Get something simple or go for a fun, bright print.
10. Wedges
I love wearing heels, but they’re almost always uncomfortable. The prettier they are, the worse they feel on my feet. But wedges are the best because they take away almost all the pain. They’re much more stable and easier to walk in than other heels aka no sprained ankles as you stumble back to your hotel room during spring break.