Spring may be here but we’re still at least a couple of months away from being able to spend a weekend on the beach (especially those of us on the East Coast). So whether you are planning a quick Caribbean getaway or a long haul vacation to a destination like Bora Bora, for example, getting a healthy dose of Vitamin D is always welcome, and doing so in style is preferable.
And since we mentioned healthy, before we even begin to discuss resort-chic pieces, let’s not forget the most important product you must bring with you—sunblock. Chemicals such as oxybenzone and octinoxate, which destroy coral reefs and are mostly found in sunblock have been banned in Hawai’i and even some Florida cities, so consider sun lotion that contains Zinc Oxide as an active ingredient instead.
Next up on your list—a stylish caftan, sunnies, and a hat, because protecting your skin and eyes from UV rays should be your number one priority, especially after a long winter during which you haven’t been exposed to much sun.
Finally, when it comes to choosing your fashion essentials such as a swimsuit or a sundress, opt out of pieces which sport all over prints of palm trees and banana leaves (we get it, it’s a tropical vacation) and go for a more elegant and less busy aesthetic. You can even find inspiration in the design of wherever you're staying (take the clean lines and minimal, natural toned patterns that adorn the Belmond Cap Juluca in Anguilla).
Here, we rounded up the chicest fashion and beauty must-haves to bring with you on your warm-weather getaway.
Related: Why You Should Travel to the Cayman Islands in the Springtime
The Skirt: Lisa Marie Fernandez Nicole Embroidered Broderie Anglaise Cotton Maxi Skirt
This gorgeous eyelet embroidered skirt sports a breezy flared silhouette with a ruffled hemline and a belted waistline.
To buy: $495, net-a-porter.com
The Top: Alexandra Miro Selma Ruffle Top
This fun off-the-shoulder crop top is the perfect beach getaway piece—pair it with a maxi skirt or wide-legged pants for the ultimate resort-ready look.
To buy: $376, alexandramiro.com
The Pant: Helen Jon Marina Pant
Grab lunch in this classic striped pair of linen pants that you can style with your one-piece swimsuit and sandals.
To buy: $154, helenjon.com
The Swimsuit: Onia Jenna One-Shoulder One-piece Swimsuit
Ditch busy tropical prints and opt for this chic one-shoulder swimsuit that features a multicolored ring.
To buy: $175, modaoperandi.com
The Caftan: Mirth Palm Springs Caftan in Ivory
An easy-to-slip-into caftan is a must when you’re spending long days by the pool or on the beach. This beautiful one by Mirth is crafted from very fine and soft woven Indian cotton and its ivory motif is woven by hand as opposed to machine stamped.
To buy: $285, mirthcaftans.com
The Sunglasses: Burberry Sunglasses
We love the thicker white frames of these Burberry shades that sport a soft cat-eye silhouette.
To buy: $245, sunglasshut.com
The Bag: Mark & Graham Large Hand-Painted Straw Beach Bag
Customize this fair trade, Moroccan handbag with your monogram. The tote is large enough to fit all of your beach essentials and is made from palm leaves.
To buy: $159, markandgraham.com
The Sandals: Stuart Weitzman Summer Wedges
Footwear usually takes so much space in your suitcase but if you opt for a versatile pair of wedges like this one that you can wear both during the day and in the evening, you will have plenty of room left.
To buy: $395, revolve.com
The Sundress: Mara Hoffman Diana Tencel Maxi Dress
The bold yellow hue of this dress just screams “beach vacation.” The flattering silhouette features a drop waist and partial front button fastening.
To buy: $595, net-a-porter.com
The Beauty Must-have: Kuleana SPF 30 Sunscreen
Formulated without oxybenzone and octinoxate, this reef-safe sunscreen is rich in plant-based oils such as Hawaiian macadamia nut oil and Maui sunflower oil.
To buy: $18, kuleanabeauty.com
The Hat: Eugenia Kim Mirabel Satin-bow Straw Hat
A wide brim and a beautiful yellow bow complement this straw hat, crafted by hand in New York City.
To buy: $495, neimanmarcus.com
