There was a time when this stretch of the year meant full spring break mode — coordinating school calendars, trying to pack up the kids, and trying to squeeze in a little rest somewhere between it all. Those were the years of busy suitcases and even busier itineraries.
Now, as empty nesters, it usually looks a little different. Most often it’s just Derrick and me, and honestly, we’ve grown to love our staycations. Slower mornings. Dinner reservations instead of theme parks. A little more spontaneity, a lot less packing stress. There’s something sweet about this season of life.
But, this time of year still brings that familiar itch for many. The craving for sunshine, longer days, and a reason to pull out pieces that haven’t seen the light since last summer. Early-in-the-year travel always feels especially exciting.
Em and I have shared mother–daughter packing posts before, and they’re always some of my favorites. There’s something fun about seeing how two generations interpret the same destination. So while we’re currently manifesting our next trip (and fully intend to make it happen), we decided to have a little fun and curate what we’d pack if we were heading somewhere warm.
This season, we’re noticing texture everywhere — woven leather bags, raffia hats, hide sandals. Soft creams paired with chocolate brown. Feminine silhouettes balanced with structured pieces. Fringe bikinis, easy black dresses, vintage-inspired earrings, and relaxed trousers you can wear from beach to dinner.
Consider this our hypothetical suitcase. A little bit mother, a little bit daughter. Same sunshine, different styling. ?
Let’s dive into what made the list!
Bucket Hat | Drop Earrings | Ivory Halter Top | Cream Silk Trousers | Sunglasses | Black Polka Dot Mini Dress | Brown Floral Bandeau Bikini Top |
Brown Bikini Bottom | LV Orange Checkered Beach Towel | Beaded Bag | White Studded Clogs
Emma’s Packing List:
Hi, it’s Em here! If I’m packing for somewhere warm, I want pieces that feel effortless but still styled. Vacays are an opportunity to bring out the pieces that feel most like you and lean into the elements of the location.
Always start with accessories because they kind of set the tone. Personally, I’m a sucker for a basic outfit elevated with accessories. A Straw Bucket Hat and Skinny Tortoiseshell Sunglasses are cute but 100% necessary for keeping sun off your face, and these Aquamarine Drop Earrings are my way of sneaking in something statement-y without overdoing it.
For swim, rich neutrals just work right now. The Brown Floral Bandeau Bikini Top with the Matching Bottoms feels simple but chic. And yes — that is a Louis Vuitton Orange Checkered Beach Towel that I threw in just for the vibe. Don’t you love when something practical also feels like a moment?
Polka dots have been having a serious comeback, and I’m fully here for it. The Black Polka Dot Mini Dress feels sweet but timeless. Easy for dinner with sandals or dressed up with a heel.
Try silk for spring — it’s perfect. This Ivory Silk Halter Top and Cream Trousers are pieces I’d wear straight from the beach to dinner. Silk pants especially feel like the upgrade from denim when you want to look put together but still comfortable.
This Beaded Shoulder Bag adds texture (I’m noticing I’m drawn to texture in everything lately), and the White Studded Clogs bring a little edge so it’s not overly sweet.
If you’re packing, you want options that mix. Pieces that work multiple ways. Things you won’t get sick of after one photo.
Butter Yellow Dress | One-Shoulder Swimsuit | Polka Dot One-Piece | Brown Raffia Hat | Blue Cable-Knit Cardigan | Silk Pants | Woven Tote | Denim Shorts |
Cream Sandals with Gold Detail | Cuff Bracelet | Silk Bandana Scarf
Allison’s Packing List: Classic, Textured, Timeless
My edit starts with silhouettes that move. The Butter Yellow Button-Front Midi Dress feels fresh for spring, while the Ivory One-Shoulder Swimsuit and Polka Dot One-Piece nod to classic shapes with subtle drama.
Texture is everywhere here too — just interpreted differently. The Chocolate Brown Raffia Hat grounds the lighter palette. The Blue Cable-Knit Cardigan layered over the Chocolate Silk Pants (I had to copy Em because I too have been wanting a pair) feels casual for lounging around the hotel or grabbing a chill dinner, but still makes me feel like I tried.
One styling detail I’ve been loving lately is the scarf trend we saw all winter. Tied at the waist over trousers and coats. But, I actually think it works even better as we move into spring and summer.
The key is lighter fabric. Think silk or soft cotton or silk, instead of wool.
This Silk Bandana Scarf is perfect for this. I’d start by tying it around the handle of the Woven and Leather Tote! But it doesn’t need to stop there. Wrap it loosely at the waist over swim, knot it low on the hips with relaxed trousers, or wear it as a headscarf on a windy beach day.
It’s one piece that changes the whole outfit without adding weight.
The finishing details really do matter. The Cream Leather Sandals with Chain Gold Detail feel subtle but special. Elevated enough for dinner but easy enough for daytime exploring. And, I love Cuff Bracelet’s; that chunky vibe is so fun for vacation.
So … where are you headed?
Are you going somewhere warm this season? A beach trip? A European getaway? A weekend escape somewhere sunny and slow?
Even if there isn’t a plane ticket booked (yet), we hope this gave you a little inspiration to shop your closet differently. We tried to keep it flexible. These outfits work just as well for a coastal vacation as they do for dinner al fresco at home, a girls’ weekend, or even just romanticizing your everyday.
Maybe this is your sign to plan the trip. Or at least pack the hypothetical suitcase.
Either way, we’re curious!! Where are you going this spring? And what’s the one piece you’re building your outfits around this time of year? Let us know!
