Packing for a Vacation

Posted on by Style By Kim xo

Going on a warm weather vacation in the next couple of months? With all the crazy cold weather lately, I wouldn’t blame you if you have no idea what to pack, just because you can’t even IMAGINE a warmer climate. I have some tips that can make the process a bit easier. What happens to most people when they go on vacation is that they pack an entire suitcase, and they only end up wearing their denim cut off shorts and the same t shirt over and over again.

Although there is nothing wrong with that, I encourage you to play with your fashion, wear something different than the usual on vacation! Try to pack comfortable items but avoid anything of a heavier fabric, you’re not going to wear it. Bring items to layer – a denim button up is perfect for this. It is lighter than a denim jacket, you can roll up the sleeves, you can roll it into your bag and bring it out when the weather starts to cool off in the evening. Lightweight items are a must, soft fabrics for the beach are essential. I heard once for packing for warmer vacations, “you want to look casual and effortless, without erring on the sloppy side, yet your outfit can’t be too sophisticated, lest it gives off that dreaded trying too-hard vibe.” (WWW). If you bring items that are a lot of work (sequins, metallics, anything you have to dry clean) you tend to look uncomfortable and part of the fun of vacations is the photos you get to post for those back home, why not look cool and effortless! I suggest going for items with prints, lighter colours, with feminine shapes and details. You’ll feel sexy with a tan, a glow, and happy so have your vacation wardrobe reflect that!

Here are some of my favourite vacay packing necessities:

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A swimsuit is obviously an essential for a beach vacation. When you’re going to the beach you want to bring a swimsuit that is going to withstand the harder climates (dealing with sand and rocks here, as well as the waves) you want something that is going to be comfortable that you can wear it all day, and not feel like its going to fall apart at the seams. I’ve been wearing my B. Swim suit all week, and I can go in the waves with no worries that its going to come off. The designs are so cool and colourful, perfect for spring!

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The perfect sandals that you are able to pair with casual outfits and dressy outfits are a packing must. These Anine Bing ones are my favourite.

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For the most part you might end up wearing the same t shirt everyday. Make sure it is comfortable, and not able to wrinkle easily! My essential tee this week has been this one

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A maxi dress is perfect for early morning coffee runs and as a beach cover up. Go with something soft that you’ll still want to put on in case you burn. This Tylie Malibu is perfect.

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You’ll also need a bag that you can travel with on the plane, and also that is casual enough to bring all your necessities to the beach. This leather Tylie Malibu is everything.

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A straw hat is a beach must. It protects you from the sun and keeps you looking cute even if your hair might be telling a different story. Melissa Odabash has a great one available here

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Bring a denim shirt that you can bring to layer in the evenings. They aren’t too heavy and can keep you looking cool and casual.
Current/Elliott has a perfect shirt.

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Wedges are a must for evenings out. The last thing you may want to do on vacation is put on 3 inch heels, so make sure you’re comfortable. Anything with a pop of colour is fabulous. Mine are Ondademar.

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Flowy pants are a vacation must. I would suggest going with a print. They are perfect for the evenings and give your wardrobe a sartorial boost. These are BCBG and are beyond amazing. Available here

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Tart Collections have some great dresses that I have been lucky enough to wear on my vacation. They are great for the dinner’s out and the soft fabrics have made them so easy to pack. As well, the fabrics help when you’re on your vacation diet! This is one of my favourite dresses to wear with the wedges above. Available here

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Denim shorts are a tried and true staple in my vacation packing. If they are for you too, I suggest going with a pair that is worn in and comfortable. Not too tight or you won’t want to wear them. Free People has some of my favourites, available here.

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Your favourite sunglasses are going to go everywhere from the beach, to shopping, to dinner with you. Make sure they fit your face, and that you bring the case to protect them from the sand!  Mine are available here.

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Coola sunscreen is the only sunscreen I use or recommend. It acts as an antioxidant filled with vitamins that will nourish your skin at the same time as protecting it. You can learn more about it here.

Where are you going this year? What is on your list?

Kim xo

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