In My Bag: Molly Martin
Columbus fashion guest blogger Molly Martin is an Abercrombie & Fitch stylist and blogger onLovely + Rust.
I love to travel, and I don't get to nearly as much as I'd like. I'm also one of those people who think the word "vacation" is synonymous with the beach.Sightseeing and big city trips are wonderful, but I don't feel like I'm truly on vacation unless I'm soaking up the sun.Isn't the sound of the ocean the most relaxing thing ever?
So, what's on your packing list? I always try to pack items I can mix and match to create different looks. If you can't wear it with more than one other item, don't take it; this rule really helps with my over-packing tendencies.
Below are my top 10 picks for a beach getaway.
1. Beach bag
The best options are easy to wipe clean and shake the sand out of. (B+W Striped Tote, Hayden Reis C/O – also available at Rowe, $144)
2. Lightweight scarf
It can double as a sarong over your swimsuit. (Old, Forever 21)
3. Maxi dress
Long dresses are my summer staple. They're easy and comfortable. Wear it during the day with flat sandals, and transition to evening with wedges and statement jewelry.(Old, Language via Leal)
4. Jean shirt
The perfect summer layer. Throw it on at the beach when the ocean breeze picks up and over your maxi dress at night. (Chambray shirt, Madewell, $69.50)
5. Straw hat
The crushable, packable kind are the best. (Roxy, $35)
6. Sunglasses
Ray-Ban wayfarers and aviators are always a classic. I'm also coveting this Karen Walker pair. (Vintage Raybans, gift from a friend)
7. Statement jewelry
A lot of women love shoes, but I'm a jewelry girl. The bigger and bolder, the better. Accessories are one of the easiest ways to change an outfit. (Both necklaces - vintage, bracelet - City Market in Charleston SC, on my honeymoon)
8. Clutch
A colorful clutch will hold all of your essentials for a night out, and then you can throw it in your beach bag during the day. (Borrowed from friend - Kate Kamalsky, Banana Republic)
9. Swimsuit
Mine is a basic, black bikini. I like it because I can throw any cover up over it, and it doesn't clash, but there are so many fun prints out right now! And I'm loving the retro high-waist styles. (Old, J.Crew)
10. Shoes
They can take up a lot of space, so try to narrow it down. I would pack a pair of wedges, flat gladiators and flip flops for the beach. (Wedge sandals, Target, $24.99)