A peek inside my suitcase (and Emma’s too!) as we head off for a much-needed tropical escape ?
We’re Off to the Big Island
It’s been a season, and I can’t tell you how ready I am for some sun, slow mornings, and salty air! We’re heading to the Big Island for a full week of R&R—and this trip also happens to be extra special. It’s my dad’s 80th birthday, and we’re celebrating with the whole family. I’m picturing long dinners outside, beach walks, and plenty of pupus and tropical drinks.
The Packing Mentality
When it comes to vacation packing, I try to keep things breezy—literally and mentally. Lightweight fabrics, versatile pieces, a few fun outfits for dinner out, and always something comfy for coffee on the lanai. I also love to use trips like this as an excuse to try something a little new: a color I wouldn’t usually wear, a trend I’ve been eyeing, a statement earring that just feels right under a straw hat.
This year, I also got a few fun things for Emma. She’s at such a sweet age, where picking out her “vacation outfit” is a whole event. I thought I’d share what she’s packing too, in case you’re a mom looking to add something playful and practical to your girl’s wardrobe.
How I’m Breaking It Down
In this post, I’ll walk you through:
- My vacation capsule (and what I always reach for on tropical trips)
- Fun accessories I couldn’t resist
- Shoes to bring along and how to style them
- Easy beauty finds for humid weather
- A few looks for Emma that I know she’ll live in
Whether you’re planning a warm-weather trip soon or just love the idea of dressing up for a staycation, I hope this gives you some inspiration—or maybe even convinces you to treat yourself to something cute for summer. Let’s get into it!
Crochet Coverup | Sarong | White One Piece | Scalloped One Piece | Sun Hat | Flip Flops | Sunglasses
Beach Days
For beach days, I kept it simple but playful—two easy looks that took zero thought but still felt put together. One is this bright yellow scalloped one-piece that just screams sunshine, paired with a toile-printed sarong and a packable, oversized Janessa Leone sun hat. The other is this adorable cream one piece with the cutest braided straps, paired with the same sarong. Or, with my absolute favorite cover-up from Amazon (I now own it in multiple colors). When I saw this tote, I knew it would be perfect for packing in my suitcase and yet so cool for poolside. Both looks are versatile and interchangeable, which is what I’m going for so I don’t overpack this trip — which I always do!
Sandals | Pearl Necklace | Charm Necklace | Palm Dress | Neon Stripe Dress | Gold Shell Necklace | Sunglasses | Body Shimmer
Dinner in Town
I packed two different looks for dinners out, depending on my mood. One is a green and ivory palm print tube dress—so easy and cute with gold lace up Tkees sandals and a straw bag. The other is a simple wrap dress with subtle orange piping. Both feel effortless but elevated, perfect for walking around after dinner or grabbing a drink in town. Accessories will be minimal, just a gold bangle and my go-to glowy perfume.
Cut Out Top | Cut Out Skirt | Flip Flops | Pearl Necklace | Charm Necklace
Birthday Dinner for Dad
This white embroidered two-piece set is for the special night celebrating my dad. We made a dinner reservation at sunset, and I wanted something sweet but not over the top. The scalloped edges and daisy cutouts felt perfectly festive, and it’s an outfit I’ll wear back home too. I plan to add some dainty earrings and wear my hair up.
Floral Blouse | Denim Cut Offs | Flip Flops | Sun Hat | Sunglasses | Straw Bag
Lunch + Shopping
For wandering local markets and grabbing lunch al fresco, I’m leaning into relaxed pieces that still feel pulled together. This floral puff-sleeve blouse instantly makes any outfit feel feminine — just pair with easy denim cutoffs. Add a raffia sun hat, oversized sunnies, and a woven crossbody so your hands are free for produce and postcards. My go-to flip-flops are in a soft blush tone this year—cute and comfy for all the strolling.
What Emma Packed
Sunglasses | Bikini Top | Bikini Bottom | Sandals | Detangler | Bandana | Sarong
Bikini Top | Bikini Bottom | Crochet Tote | Graphic Tee | Necklace | Lace Shorts | Sunglasses | Sandals
Asymmetrical Top | Clutch | Linen Trouser | Body Shimmer | Sandals | Earrings
Ruffle Top | Satin Pants | Sparkle Clutch | Raffia Wedges
Striped Top | Striped Pants | Triple Ring | Sandals | Gold Cuff | Shell Bag
Embroidered Top | Patterned Pants | Perfume | Jelly Sandals
Dress | Sparkle Clutch | Perfume | Sunglasses
Whether you’re heading somewhere tropical soon or just building out your summer wardrobe, I hope this gave you a few ideas to make packing feel a little more effortless—and fun! A mix of practical, playful, and polished pieces goes a long way when you’re living out of a suitcase. Just remember: take what makes you feel good, try something new if it excites you, and always leave room for sandy toes and spontaneity! ☀️
