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Outfits for (Most) Spring Break Events

This article is written by a student writer from the Her Campus at U Iowa chapter.

Packing for vaction is definitely a hard task, especially for us overpackers out there! There’s alwasy that “what if” factor. Like “What if I need this really fancy dress to wear to a really fancy restaurant because I will want to look really fancy?!” Chances are, you probably won’t need that dress, and it will just be taking up space in your suitcase that you will need for other very important things (i.e. all of the new clothes you’ll buy on vacation). If this sounds like you, here is just the solution. A combination of outfits that you’ll need for most Spring Break events that you will possibly be attending.

(Photo Credit: https://www.pinterest.com/pin/147070744059146493/)

First, and probably most important considering everyone seems to flock to areas with beaches over Spring Break, is a swimsuit! Now, you’ll need the perfect swimsuit for this trip, especially one that’s in style. Anything with a high waist, frills and an interesting cut are trendy right now; one pieces have even made a bigger splash in 2016. You’ll most likely need a coverup as well — opt for a long denim shirt or a floral kimono to switch things up a bit. Keep your jewelry simple with a choker or a small necklace and some friendship bracelets because let’s be real, no one wants to be the person that loses their jewelry in the ocean. To complete the look, throw on a pair of sandals, some sunglasses and a hat if you’re really feeling it. Oh, and don’t forget the sunscreen!

(Pinterest: https://www.pinterest.com/pin/147070744058724565/)

Next we have the “strolling around town and sightseeing” look. Now this, you can do many different ways, but my favorite is to wear a simple dress. So, if you think you’ll be doing this, grab your favorite spring/summer dress, a pair of converse or really comfy sandals (seriously though, make sure they’re comfy! You’ll be doing a lot of walking!), some simple jewelry (maybe a necklace, or Alex and Ani braclets, or a fun ring…maybe all of the above!), and, depending on the temperature, you can even wear a light jacket (say a jean jacket, oversized denim shirt or a cargo jacket). All of these things combined will complete the look and make you the cutest tourist around *insert sassy woman pushing up her hair emoji here* (That is also legitimately what it’s called, trust me, I Googled it.).

(Photo Credit: https://www.pinterest.com/pin/147070744057345512/)

Okay, so maybe you like the beach, but you like the mountains more, so you’re travelling farther north this spring break. You’re definitely going to need something more than just a dress to get you by. My favorite thing to wear when it’s cold outside is an oversized sweater — it just makes you feel so warm and cozy. Pair it with some colorful jeggings (Because let’s be real, jeggings are pretty much the equivalent of leggings and leggings are life!) or leggings, some thick, wool socks and cute boots. All of these will be the perfect laid-back outfit suitable for a ski lodge. If you want, pair these pieces with a beanie and a simple necklace, and you’re good to go!

(Photo Credit: https://www.pinterest.com/pin/147070744058466689/)

Maybe you’re travelling to a destination that has a temperature in between ski resort and PCB, what would you wear?! Do not fear, for I have just the outfit for you. The key to this outfit is in the layers — seriously, you’ll need A LOT of layers. When you’re visiting a place like this, the temperature will varry throughout the day; sometimes you’ll feel like you’re on fire, while other times you’ll feel like someone turned the air conditioning on full blast. Since that’s the case, start by layering a t-shirt underneath a light jacket, denim shirt or a flannel (These pieces are staples for any vacation wardrobe!). If you still don’t feel warm enough, add a vest on top. For your bottoms, go with your favorite pair of jeans or leggings. Add a cute pair of tennis shoes or boots and complete the look with your choice of jewelry! A stylish, yet comfortable outfit that will be suitable for anything that Mother Nature throws your way! (Well, except for rain…)

(Photo Credit: http://pin.it/vsuk9fW)

What if you actually have a fancy dinner to go to…what should you wear?! A long maxi dress of course! Why a long dress you ask? So you don’t get cold in the restaurant, that’s why! (I don’t know if anyone else has a problem with this, but I am always FREEZING in restaurants and long dresses usually keep me warm.) Add a cute pair of wedges or sandals and…jewelry of course (Opt for a statement necklace if your dress is plain. It will add the perfect touch to your outfit and make it look like you spent hours picking it out)! And, as usual, throw on a light sweater or jacket to complete the look. With this outfit, you’ll look like you just stepped out of a magazine *insert sassy woman pushing her hair up emoji here*.

(Photo Credit: http://pin.it/oJXMhjZ)

And last, but not least, an outfit for my girls that are staying at home for spring break! Whooohooooo! (This will be me as well!) My favorite outfit to wear at home is something super comfy and usually involves some type of workout clothes. However, this year, I’m going to try and switch it up a bit by attempting to make my outfits look a little more dressy. To do this, I’m going to pair a graphic tee with a flannel. For my bottoms, I will wear my favorite pair of high waisted jeans…or leggings — it all really depends on how lazy I’m feeling that day (haha!). Considering that it will probably be slightly cold in Iowa, I’m going to throw on my cargo jacket to keep me even warmer. Maybe I’ll even add a scarf (Wool scarves = my lifesaver! I wear one with pretty much every outfit)! For shoes I will either wear my leather booties or converse. And there you have it, a look that will surely brighten up your spring break! 

Disclaimer: You can change any theses items to work with what you have in your wardrobe, these are just outfits that I would wear for each of these occasions! 

Claire is a student at the University of Iowa studying Business Management and Entrepreneurship with a minor in Spanish and a Certificate in Sustainability. She is a self-proclaimed hippie and loves cacti and cats. Claire is low key (and by low key she means high key) OBSESSED with Vampire Diaries and anything vintage - specifically if it's high-waisted. Her future goals include owning a sustainable company and backpacking across Ireland. Join Claire as she brings you on her journey through the cornfields of Iowa ;)
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