How to Pack for a Beach Holiday

Hi Imogen,

I am a regular reader of your blog and simply love your advice and tips! Your blog has helped me transform into a more confident person as far as dressing and accessorizing goes. I had a question for you and needed some advice. I am planning a trip to Hawaii in December and was wondering what I should carry. I have a 1 year old baby for whom I have to carry tons of stuff. So space is precious. Anything that can multi-task will be great. I am a petite and have a tummy due to the pregnancy. I have a small bust (32B) and my legs are longer than my upper body. I would greatly appreciate it if you could suggest or create a polyvore for some day outfits and some night outfits for my trip. This will make my shopping and packing much easier. I look froward to hearing from you!

Thanks,
Preet

 There are some for whom lying on a hammock by the beach, listening to the waves while the sun shines brightly with a cocktail in hand, equals a holiday. Some of us ensure we have at least one of these annually while others are lucky enough to head out more frequently. Depending on where you’re headed for your beach holiday it can get quite complicated! You may be blessed with steady sunshine or intermittent rains may play spoilsport. Other than a swim-suit there’s lots more you need to carry if you’re headed to the beach, to ensure you don’t need to buy it! 

My top 3 tips

• Carry a few statement pieces to get that perfect pop of colour. You can also use scarves and jewellery if needed

• Opt for pieces that are versatile. A scarf can also be used as a cover-up!

• Keep the outfits that require ironing or delicate care at home

I’d recommend you get a multiway dress – the one pictured here in green is from American Apparel, and was featured by Jane from The Small Fabric of my Life as one of her holiday essentials, and she shows you how to tie it about 15 ways!  You can wear it as a skirt or dress, wear it with a t-shirt underneath, or on top.

Then bring a few t-shirts that can be mixed with the dress, a pair of shorts, a skirt for evening, that can be teamed with a sparkly top and some jewelled flip flops (or as we call the here in Australia, thongs).  A light cardigan or shrug is essential for cooler evenings or airconditioning.

A couple of pairs of swimmers (I love these ones pictured for hiding that post baby belly), plus the top would work well with the shorts, and some beach thongs (flip flops, I’m not getting into your underwear!), and some sandals for evening.

If you have the space, an extra sun dress would also work well, and of course, don’t forget your hat!

I’ve left accessories out – but I’d take some fun, and not expensive or easily broken necklaces or rings to add some sparkle.

I also love a Maxi dress or skirt on a beach holiday