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Sassy Styles for Summer Vacation

Now that summer is nigh, it's time to think about our social lives. (Okay, I know we think about that endlessly, all year long, but let's pretend for a moment that we're really responsible adults who care about our jobs, current events, and other relevant daily details the most.) And in the summer, this includes a fair amount of nights-away-from-home travel, which falls under the happy moniker VACATION. Not just a day off to get that pesky annual dental checkup taken care of, but a real, honest-to-goodness, going-away-for-fun vacation. Anticipation buoys us all week beforehand, and we daydream of the luxury of self-indulgent laziness (in comfy yet incredibly stylish summer togs), new environments (and new wedge rope sandals), reconnecting with nature (in a gorgeous shoulder-baring racerback dress made from all natural fabrics), or finally finishing that involved conversation you and your girlfriends have been trying to get to for months (which is most likely about whose sassy new sundress makes the best beach coverup). But the lingering question remains: what to pack? How do you include ideal ensembles for all of the potential activities the joyous sojourn could hold, while still avoiding hiring a Sherpa to cart your luggage to the train, bus, airplane, sailboat, or car that will bring you to your destination? Because over-packing makes you look so, well, Paris Hilton (pre-penitentiary, of course). Below lie some streamlining hints to cover a number of weekend hops; your schedule may vary.

The City: Well, if you're here, there are two scenarios: 1) you're wanting to look fantastic, because all the fashionisti live here, or 2) you're feeling pretty relaxed, because all the people who really matter leave town in the summer. But trust me, keep your edge; look fantastic, because you never know who's watching (Robert Verdi could be just around the next corner!). City shorts are the perfect start, with a loose eyelet blouse and great sandals. Or a day dress, with sassy flats that will let you schlep all over the city looking for the best bargains (and still respectable enough for lunch at Bergdorf's). A straw or light-colored tote will stash all your loot and keep your silhouette streamlined. For dinner, change the flats for heels, or switch to your slimmest trousers and a dynamite, jewel-toned silk blouse and add a little sass to your wrist—you can slide right into Bungalow 8 because the bold-faced names are at Diddy's White Party in the Hamptons.

The Mountains: I suppose we better start by assuming that fashion must, to some extent, give way to function here. If you're staying in somewhat rustic accommodations (or ::ulp:: a tent!), there's no point to bring any shoe with a heel. And you might as well dispense with a skirt, too-you can't haul firewood (ooh, romantic fire pit, complete with s'mores!) in a pencil skirt. It may well be warm at midday but cool in the morning and evening, so plan to layer. Take shorts and a tank for each day, but keep at least one pair of really comfortable jeans or one pair of cargos for each evening after the sun sets, and a long-sleeved tee or sweater for the top. And sneak in a parka or jacket with some water-shedding ability in case of a shower or some fog. Shoes: sneaks for hanging around, a sandal with a buckle strap to keep your piggies cool and your ankles secure over uneven ground, and a simple simple flat in case you head to the main camp for the Saturday night barbeque and cocktail party. If there's a lake (or hey, even if there isn't-how much space can it take up?), bring a bathing suit-more on the sporty side than the slinky side. Jumping off the dock into an inner tube can do a number on the bottom of a string bikini!

The Beach: The most traditional summer getaway, this also offers the most potential variety for one short weekend's worth of clothing. Walk on the beach: loose chinos or drawstring cargos, a girly tee, and a slouchy sweater will keep you warm in the morning chill. Going to the beach for the middle of the day requires a bathing suit: make sure you're comfortable in it! You can't enjoy yourself if you're just lying flat on the towel or sucking in your abs all day. Choose a two-piece with enough support for the girls that you can walk around, or a sweet one-piece with sexy details for a little more coverage. After the beach, now's your chance to show off your skin in a darling maxi-dress, pedicure-flattering thongs and a beach-themed bracelet for the sunset and some grilled fish. Repurpose your chinos with a polo shirt or a tank and some flops for the second day brunch and the ride home.

That should get you started; and this fabulous weekender from Jimeale is just the bag to get you to and from your little holiday. Also, make sure you remember the sunscreen, insect repellent, and mini-sized products (in this nifty little cosmetic case) for all your beautifying (you should look dewy and polished, but not over-done). Grab a deep conditioner, and consider leaving the blowdryer at home and embracing your natural texture; that humidity is murder on a blowout anyway. And you won't want to miss a minute of the fun on fighting your waves. Don't forget a hostess gift, and make sure you send me a postcard!

Bon voyage,

Shop Girl

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