Dreaming of Summer 2021: What to Pack for A Beach Vacation

For the majority of us, it’s been a since we’ve been able to get out of the house and travel to a beach, lake, ocean, the mountains, or go on a city break. And even though that’s still not going to happen for a while until vaccinations are more common and things feel safer, we can dream about summer fashion and beach vacations

Plus, there are some amazing deals on travel itself and on the vacation outfits and gear you’ll need for when we can get out on the road and explore again, so its time to dream big and stock up. Here are some of our favorite pieces to pack whether we are going on a long trip or simply a family member’s pool…

Summer Fashion To Pack for A Beach Vacation

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Summer Fashion Travel Tote(s)

You might already have a Longchamp Le Pliage or other versatile canvas or leather tote, but there’s something more chill about a straw or raffia tote if you’re on a trip; besides, a straw tote like this one from A New Day at Target won’t show dirt, dust, or sand easily, and it’s cheap enough at $32 to replace next year. 

A Versatile Swimsuit

While having a drawerful of bikinis and monokinis is great for the twenty-somethings, once you get a little older you might want something a bit more classic – the little black dress of swimsuits, for instance. This Norma Kamali swimsuit with its twisted detailing might be just about perfect, and you can pair it with virtually any kind of cover-up (think a sarong or pareo wrap, wide leg linen pants, a long kimono, or a maxi dress) and you will be super chic and confident. 

Scarves To Layer

There’s nothing quite as useful as a big cotton scarf on a summer trip. You can use it to protect yourself from wind and sun, as a hair wrap, or even as a sarong, beach cover-up, or blanket if the scarf is large enough. We always have something like these Rastogi scarves from India and usually a bigger option like these from Genesis via Amazon in our totes. 

Beach Vacation Multi-Use Products

When you have that “escaped on vacation” glow, sometimes all you need is a little shimmer and some mascara and your face is set – and don’t forget the sunscreen of course! This makes something like the classic Nars Multi-sticks ideal (we like Portofino for a nice flush and Copacabana to highlight), and we also like the Three Love Lip, Cheek, and Eye sticks in any of the versatile hues, particularly the rosy pink “Its Gotta Be Love.”

A Pocketable Jacket

One of the most useful pieces in our carry-ons or totes is a waterproof or water resistant jacket that can fold up small. Get some for the whole family at Uniqlo and you can all coordinate (which makes for great pictures!) or choose your own shades if your kids and/or partner are too cool for that. 

Summer Fashion Beachy Headwear

While baseball caps or sun visors can work (don’t forget the sunscreen on your scalp though!), a cute raffia or straw hat is way more fun. We like this modern take on the classic Panama hat silhouette from Halogen at Nordstrom

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“Vacation” Dresses, Caftans and Kimonos

Whether it is a dress, bathing suit cover-up or kimono, a two piece set, or a jumpsuit, we all know those pieces that just scream “I’m on vacation!” even if you are only wearing them on your patio. Try a fun strappy maxi like these vibrant printed ones from GRECERELLE on Amazon, or a simple kimono or wrap like this colorful printed one from Hibluco, also via Amazon.  

Bold Sandals

There’s a place in every wardrobe for neutral footwear, but it’s not part of your vacation outfits. Metallics, animal prints, brights, and anything else that makes your heart sing goes! We like these Nine West Slides that come in a variety of colorways and prints so there is something that is sure to work with your casual summer style.  

Fun Summer Fashion Jewelry

Layered necklaces and bracelets, ankle bracelets, and big chandelier or hoop earrings in luscious tropical hues can make anything feel just a little bit more festive, even if your tiki bar is just in your backyard. We’re fans of the return of anklets for summer (just check out this Fremada 14k yellow gold option from Overstock at only $22.97) and colorful hoops like this pair from SUGARFIX by BaubleBar available at Target.

Don’t Forget The Umbrella!

A portable beach umbrella like these from Blissun can be a lifesaver on a beach vacation or other sun-filled excursion.

Is a spring vacation or other travel in the cards for you now that the weather is warming up, or are you sticking close to home? What are your favorite pieces to pack and what screams “vacation time” to you? Let us know in our Growing Younger Facebook Group or in the comments!

Shop Summer Fashion for A Beach Vacation

–Jacqueline Zenn

You may like to read more of Jacqueline’s styling posts like Essential Spring Rainwear That Will Brighten Your Days and Pajama Trends For Spring 2021 That Will Make You Feel Fabulous.

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