Searching for Sun: A Spring Break Packing List

We have spent the better part of the past month here in Seattle getting blown sideways by crazy wind, being relentlessly pelted by sideways rainstorms, not to mention dealing with flu bugs, chest colds, and other curses of the winter. By mid March people are a little blurry eyed from the persistent drama of it all; as for me, knowing that I am heading out for a spring break is what has kept me going. I know we are lucky to be able to take off and escape this freezing weather for a few days, and I am grateful to be headed to the warmth of beautiful La Quinta, near Palm Springs. Super grateful.

It happens to be my birthday on the day we arrive in sunny California for our spring break this year (and it is Easter) and even though I am a fifty-something I actually still love birthdays. I am always in a little bit of shock, and well, denial of my actual age, but having my own personal holiday remedies any angst I have for the most part. I know that having a birthday is a privilege, as is growing older itself, and after all, a birthday is the perfect excuse to drink champagne.
Here is my vacation hit list for wherever you end up searching for the sun this spring:

SWIMWEAR
There are a few things to do before you can get to the lounge-chair umbrella-drink portion of vacation. Getting your suitcase ready means a bit of shopping, starting with swimwear. (Insert round-eyed, deer in the headlights emoji here). While this task can be intimidating, there are so many great suits that work with what you’ve got, and there really is something for everyone out there.  Retire your old suits that are more than about three years old, especially if you have worn them often, and take the plunge for a couple of new suits, depending on what you are keeping from the prior year.

Seafolly Summer Garden Boyleg Suit

The 2016 swim suit styles include cut-outs, high-waisted bikinis, athletic chic, high neck fronts, laces, and sunny stripes, gingham, and florals. I love this Seaside High Neck Maillot for a trendy one-piece look that is perfect for actual swimming and water sports as well as worn with a wrap skirt for cocktails around the pool. I find the swimwear runs on the small side so don’t be alarmed if you go up from your normal size—fit is really important and what size it says on the tag is not.

I really love the suits from SeaFolly like the one pictured above becaause they are a little retro, a little sexy and just right for those looking for a full piece suit with serious style.  The Boyleg suits are a favorite and bikini wearers will love this Goddess Keyhole top in a gorgeous poppy color.

J.Crew Gingham Moto Jacket and Ballet Flats

CHECKERED LIFE
I am loving the gingham and seersucker that was all over the place at the J.Crew ready-to-wear show and online as well. With East coast classic vibe, gingham isn’t just for little girls. It lightens up denim and gives a sunny side to more serious silhouettes. This J.Crew gingham motorcyle jacket is going to a super cute way to cover up at the pool when I want to stray away from the usual flowy looking dress cover and I’ll be wearing it with denim and a crisp white shirt or over a floral dress too.  I may have also ordered the seersucker swimsuit and matching knotted gingham slides but don't tell anyone.

Maslin & Co. Deluxe Animal Print Beach Towel

BEACH BABE
I am a more than a little obsessed with this Maslin & Co. animal print beach towel. Its big enough for two, is shaped like an animal skin, and rolls up in to a neat bundle with its own leather carrier. How fabulous would you be strolling onto the sand with this baby in tow? Use it at the pool or for a picnic…who knew a towel could be so glamorous. For the rest of your gear, I like a big fun tote bag that fits smaller bags holding sunglasses, keys, sunscreen and the like. This beauty by Mary Y Sol from Favery is bright with sassy little pom poms that pretty much scream “vacation!”  You can pop the Elise Clutch in it if you are headed to evening cocktails or dinner.

Paul Andrew Lotus Multi Strap Sandals

EVERYTHING LOOKS BETTER WITH A WEDGE
My friend Kelly and I always said, “Everything looks better with a wedge” when it came to summer dressing and we were right! The one exception…the wedge flip flop…don’t make me go there. Anyhow, a wedge, in all its forms, really is the perfect summer shoe. Wedges have more personality than ever these days, including the cool flatform sandal like these Vince Marett ones (silver shoes of all types are a big deal this summer FYI), plus elaborate decorated wedges, like the Paul Andrew Lotus pair above and of course the sneaker.

Caroline Constas Striped Poplin Off The Shoulder Blouse

Zara Asymmetric Poplin Top

FAVORITE PIECES FOR MY SUITCASE
I was completely in love with the off the shoulder look last summer and that feeling has only increased after laying eyes on Caroline Costas Striped Poplin Off The Shoulder Blouse. I love all her designs. This Zara Asymmetric Poplin Top is also super cool. Whether it is a dress, jumpsuit, romper or top, this super flattering trend should definitely be front and center in your summer wardrobe.
Get yourself a beautiful white summer dress. White is the perfect fresh approach to summer dressing. I love Rebecca Minkoff’s take on it with the Chief Lace Dress, a combination of summer lace, boho, and sweet sophistication.  I also love this Tibi Layered Silk Dress and this See by Chloe Broderie anglaise cotton mini dress, on sale at The Outnet.

Illesteva Leonard Mask Sunglasses

I have always been a Ray-Ban girl but lately my Leonard Illesteva sunglasses have been my go-to’s when we actually see the sun around here. The super groovy Illesteva Leonard Mask sunglasses with mirrored lenses are the latest for Summer 2016 from this company and I think they are incredibly cool. Finally don't forget a hat: my favorite place to get a lid both summer and winter is Madewell. This white Madewell x Biltmore Panama Hat is perfection.

Here's hoping your week is filled with sunshine, inside you and out.