Spring Break Wardrobe Essentials: How to Pack for Your Spring Vacation

Everyone deserves a little getaway in the spring. After the long, dark winter — and after a productive start to the year — everyone needs a brief break where they can relax and re-energize for the warm months ahead.

Regardless of where you are vacationing during your spring break, you want to look and feel good in your outfits. Here are a few style tips to ensure that your spring break wardrobe is comfortable, functional and fly.

Cropped Wide-leg Jeans

The end of the skinny jeans era came suddenly — but not unexpectedly. After more than a decade as the dominant silhouette, the skinny and slim pant profiles have been replaced by straight, wide and even baggy jeans. If you are headed somewhere warm, you might opt for a cropped version of a wide-leg jean, which will help you keep cool as you enjoy your spring vacation.

Trench Coat

Spring might bring warm weather, and most spring breakers travel to destinations where temperatures are quite hot. Even so, the occasional spring storm can cause temperatures to dip — and spring evenings can still be quite nippy — so you would be wise to pack a light outer layer, like the ever-fashionable trench coat. You can find lightweight women’s coats for springtime in a variety of materials and colors, so you should choose one that matches the rest of your vacation wardrobe palette.

Blazer

A blazer or a sport coat is a light outer layer that provides multiple functions on a spring vacation. Like a trench coat, a blazer can offer warmth during cooler evenings. Additionally, blazers help to dress up more casual looks, which means they can be useful to bring along for nice dinners or more formal events. You should opt for a slightly oversized blazer or sport coat, which follows current trends for large, boxy and baggy silhouettes.

Mule Loafers

Mules are a style of shoe that has no constraint around the heel, which makes them easy to slide on and off — perfect for a casual vacation look. However, if you want a slightly elevated mule option, you might search for mules that mimic the look of loafers in the front. Loafers can be dressed down or up, making this an excellent option for spring break, when you will need multifunctional footwear to fit in a variety of events.

White Sneakers

The classic white sneaker is always a wardrobe staple. You should pack a comfortable pair of sneakers for your spring break trip, as you will likely want a strong and supportive shoe to wear during days when you will be walking more than usual. If your white sneakers are bulky, like the dad-shoe style, you can wear them on the plane to save space in your suitcase.

Flowy Maxi Skirt

Spring fashion trends indicate that floor-length skirts will be in this season. A lightweight maxi skirt that allows for flowy movement will help you stay cool during your warm spring getaway. You might opt for bright colors and a busy pattern, which are also in style, and pair the skirt with a simple cropped top.

Soccer Tee

One of the more unique clothing trends to arise this spring is the soccer tee — or football tee, depending on where you live. This tee shirt is made of a shiny, sporty fabric and uses bright colors in simple patterns, much like the uniforms worn by soccer (or football) players. Popular designers like Gucci, Balenciaga and Martine have their own takes on the soccer tee, but if you have a team that you already support, you might invest in their merch before your vacation.

Bohemian Dress

No woman’s spring break wardrobe is complete without a dress. In following the fashion for flowy, feminine skirts, your dress should be somewhat bohemian in style, with a loose draping that allows for easy movement. You might look for a flat or square neckline and simple tie straps, which are also in style this season.

Triangle Bikini

If you are going to spend time in the pool or on the beach during spring break, you need a swimsuit. This spring and summer, style experts expect the classic triangle bikini — tied in the typical way — to make a major comeback. For a chic look that contrasts with the bright color and patterns of your wardrobe, you might choose a bikini in solid neutral colors, like white or brown.