Tessa Faye O'Connell is a contributor known for her work at various fashion houses, specializing in media and public relations, currently working at Coach as its global PR director. She's a mom of two, working to expand her influence in the fashion space through styling while also just making it out the door on time.
I have an outfit folder for day-to-day dressing, so you better believe I have a process for getting ready for break or a beach vacation. I hate overpacking or feeling like I'm wasting time doing anything other than relaxing with my family, and I meticulously do a try-on of all items and coordinate to bring accessories that can mix and match with most everything. Where I used to worry about just me, I now have to ensure my beach bag is big enough for all the kids' toys I'm lugging and that my outfits aren't going to fly off chasing after two girls in the pool or sitting with someone on my lap at dinner.
While it takes some work on the back end, the reward for being prepped and ready to go is well worth it to feel good in what I choose to wear but also to feel functional. Having go-to outfit formulas like the ones below makes packing a bit easier. Plus, what is better than being in warm weather and flowy dresses and relaxing for that trip (not vacation) with your littles when you already know what you're going to wear?
Crochet Pieces
Crochet pieces are some of my favorite pieces for traveling, as they are so cute and wearable, and you never get to wear them in your day-to-day life.
Bathing Suit
Underneath it all: my favorite bathing-suit roundup. Easy, stretchy, comfortable. I love the suits from Anemos, and here are others:
Cover-up
I love to purchase and collect cover-ups and continue to gravitate and come back to styles that are comfortable and wearable, especially when chasing around two little girls who are anything but chill on vacation.
Matching Set
I live in these Chan Luu sets on vacation. They are multiple outfits in one and can be worn together or as separates as an outfit or to the beach—my go-to always.
Minidress
I love this one by Faithfull the Brand. Everything they do is perfect for summer and vacation.
Flowy Top
A flowy top to throw on with anything, from linen pants to jean shorts, is a must. I prefer a fun printed or colorful style that I don't normally wear to the office.
Printed Dress
A good printed dress is necessary on vacation (and maybe always).
Shorts
Shorts can be worn over a bathing suit and can be dressed up if needed for a more casual dinner out or to breakfast in the morning with a T-shirt.
White Dress
Viva la white dress on vacation after sitting outside in the sun all day. (Under a hat, you still get a glow.)
Mini Bag
You can throw a mini bag into your travel bag, which should always be a Dagne Dover carryall or backpack.
Hat (and Sunscreen)
Cover that beautiful face of yours!
