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.
If you think I have an outfit folder for day-to-day dressing, 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 any time 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, now I have to ensure my beach bag is big enough for all the kids' toys I’m lugging, and my outfits aren’t going to fly off chasing after two girls in the pool, or someone at my lap at dinner.
While it takes some work on the backend, 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 some go-to outfit formulas like the ones below makes packing a bit easier. Plus, what is better than being in warm weather, 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, wearable, and you never get to wear in your day to day life.
Bathing Suits
Underneath it all: My favorite bathing suit roundup. Easy, stretchy, comfortable.
Coverup
I live to purchase and collect coverups, 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
live in these Chann Lu sets on vacation, they are multiple outfits in one, can be worn together or as separates as an outfit or to the beach—my go to always.
Mini Dress
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, can dress 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!
