the getaway wardrobe

There is nothing more luxurious than packing a bag and heading off on a tropical winter getaway--except for, of course, packing a very large bag and heading off on that same getaway! For my recent trip to Careyes, Mexico, a few weeks ago, I brought along more swimsuits, dresses, and kaftans than I could possibly wear in a week, but it felt so indulgent to have those options with me (and, as it turned out, unpacked for me as well!). With the holidays coming up--and high hopes for warm weather vacations ahead--I did some reconnaissance on all things resort wear and came up with a list of the latest and greatest must-pack items. Because the list is quite lengthy, I thought I'd break it up into two parts and start with swimwear and cover-ups today. For starters, the array of swimsuit options is immense, but I love that you can get a bunch of styles to try on from sites like Netaporter, Asos and Shopbop with free shipping and returns--and avoid the harsh lighting of a department store dressing room! I tend to bring a mix of staple suits (i.e., the solid black bikini) with more adventurous styles (the cut-out one-piece) and wear according to mood/agenda. I actually just bought this crazy sexy Asos suit, which I fantasize wearing on a far-away beach with just my hubby, but I also fancy this one-shouldered lovely and this floral gem, all of which would be suitable at a family resort! Bikini wise, I still swear by this Victoria Secret's hipkini (I took it with me to Mex!) as it's perfect for all sun, sand and sea outings, but I also love these just-out stunners by Lisa Maree, Vix Swimwear, Charlie by Matthew Zink and Asos. Statement-y kaftans and tunics that go from the beach to the bar, such as this one (on sale!), this one and this one are fantastic in my book, but the easy ones you can throw on over a wet swimsuit and feel dressed are also practical, like this one, this one , this one, and this one. Stay-tuned for winter-getaway part deux, where I will cover sandals, apres beach wear and accessories!