Ahh, spring break—sunshine, serenity, soirees. The mid-semester vacation is right around the corner, so it’s time to start thinking about your destination wardrobe. Given our collegiette budgets, the last thing we want to do is pay for an overweight bag at the airport. Plus, it’s unnecessary! Strategically mixing and matching spring break staples can go a long way. With a little creativity and a lot of fabulous finds, you can hit the beach in style without breaking the bank (or your suitcase)!
Hot Flip Flops
Havaianas Slim Thematic Flip-Flop: Piperlime, $28
Braided Faux-Leather Flip-Flops: Old Navy, $15
There’s no better way to show off those freshly pedicured toes than by wearing a cute pair of flip flops. We particularly love embellished ones, because they bring a little extra style to a spring break necessity. Slip on a waterproof pair poolside and go for a faux-leather version with braiding detail to add fun sophistication to daytime ensembles. Either way, these flip flops will complement that healthy glow you’ll be getting from the sun (with sunscreen of course!)!
Chic Shades
Basic Wayfarer Sunglasses: Wet Seal, $7.50
We have an undying love for sunglasses; no matter how we’re feeling about our body, we can slip on a pair of fierce shades and we suddenly ooze confidence as we strut our stuff. Trendy pairs don’t have to be expensive, either! These retro shades are the must-have sunglasses of the season, and they’re available in a variety of colors and sizes, so scope out a pair that fits your personality and style.
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Springtime Satchel
LPLP Linea Pelle Crossbody Wristlet: Target, $20
No collegiette wants to be bothered by a bulky shoulder purse while roaming the beach or checking out the cuties by the pool. That’s why we love the idea of a cross-body, convertible bag to take on your trip. This satchel is big enough to hold all your essentials without the hassle of falling off your shoulder mid-flirting, and it doubles as an adorable clutch when you tuck in the straps. Plus, adding a vibrant pop of yellow to your ensemble will keep you looking bright and cheery.
Bathing Beauty
Gathered Bow Pushup Bikini; Topshop, $26
Spring break marks the beginning of swimsuit season, so a sizzling suit on your packing list is a no-brainer. Although this could seem completely daunting to some of us after a long, covered-up winter, don’t panic. With a healthy dose of confidence, you can rock anything! From tankinis to string bikinis, there are numerous styles for all different body types, so choose swimwear that gives you some extra pep in your step. This aqua blue suit complements nearly all skin tones and it’s the ultimate summer color. Need we say more?
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Flirty Frock
Single Ruffle Surplice Dress with Belt in Orchid: Forever 21, $17.80
Every collegiette needs a flirty dress in her warm weather wardrobe that makes her feel unstoppable. We particularly love feminine ruffle details, and a cinched waist flatters most body types. The best part? This dress does double duty; wear casual flip flops for daytime shopping, then simply slip on printed pumps for girls’ night out!
Flowy Top
Printed Side-Tie Top in Cool Combo: Old Navy, $26.94
Spring break simply begs you to be comfy and relaxed, so consider a soft, flowing top your vacation go-to. Spring for a style with a chic pattern and bold colors that’ll make you feel fresh and vibrant like this tribal pattern version. It’ll add some chic (and inexpensive) variety to your collegiette wardrobe that also brings any ensemble an extra kick of style!
Denim Diva
AE Destroyed Boyfit Short: American Eagle, $39.50
Beach destinations and denim shorts are the ultimate combo. In other words, they’re your main spring break staple. Effortlessly take them from day to night by switching out your flip flops for embellished flats or summery wedges. They don’t have to be Daisy Dukes to make you feel sexy, either! Choose a slightly longer, cuffed short in medium to dark wash, and you’ll add versatility and sophistication to your bottom half.
Now that you have your spring break essentials, it’s time to mix and match!
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Prepare for Takeoff
Spring break is just a plane ride away, but you can’t be caught in winter wear once you reach your vacation spot! Plan ahead by wearing destination-appropriate clothes that’ll still be comfortable after sitting for a few hours. Boyfriend-fit denim shorts paired with your bold and cozy top are your best bet to starting your spring break off on a fashionable foot. You’ll be ready to hit the beach town streets as soon as you step off the plane!
Daytime Chic
Setting out for a relaxing day of shopping with the girls? You can still be ultra comfortable while keeping your ensemble fun by donning that adorably feminine dress paired with your yellow cross-body. Slip on your metallic flip-flops to complete this relaxed yet chic look, and you’ll be feeling radiant all day long.
Beach Bombshell
Simplicity is key when it comes to oceanside style, which is why we love to incorporate subtle, yet chic details into our style choices. A vibrant and complementary bathing suit will do wonders to your confidence once you hit the beach, and rocking your mod wayfarers will not only make you look like an undercover celeb but also allow you to sneak a peek at the cute guys sitting near you. A loose cover-up with an adjustable cinched waist paired with your all-purpose flip-flops will keep you trendy on and off the sand.
Merona Women’s Swim Cover Up Dress in White: Target, $18
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Classy and Casual
Getting creative is essential when it comes to switching up your vacation style, so transform that cozy cover-up into a sleek daytime dress! Add a pop of color with a long, blue stone necklace complemented by your metallic sandals, and those retro shades will bring some funk to the ensemble. Whether you’re out to lunch with friends or scoping some cuties in the hotel lobby, do so in fabulous style!
Burrows Necklace: Aldo, $12
Girls’ Night Glamour
Who doesn’t want to feel sexy and feminine on girls’ night out? There’s no better way to do that than by rocking your waist-defining dress and sky-high, bold pattern pumps. Be brave and add even more color to the mix with a long jewel necklace and vibrant satchel. Your legs will go on for miles, and we guarantee your feminine silhouette will make jaws drop. How could you say no to this outfit?
Glittered Ornate Pumps: Forever 21, $27.80
What are your spring break style essentials? Share with us below!