It's Time to Pack: Winter Beach-Vacation Essentials

The number one beach essential is a great bathing suit. We love this super-flattering, sophisticated one-piece ($43). With a scoop neck, a low back, and a high-cut leg, it'll hug you in all the right places and feel comfortable if you're partaking in any water sports. (Snorkeling and parasailing are not easy in a barely there bikini, FYI.)

To take yourself from the hotel to the beach or pool, you'll need a great pareo ($320). We love this eye-catching red number by Toteme; made from cotton and silk, it's soft and luxurious. Wrap it around your suit during the day, then wear it as a scarf in the evening. A versatile piece like this is essential when you're deciding what to pack.

This Panama straw hat ($350) will shield you from the sun, whether you're walking along the beach or heading out for an early drink. We love the structure and the rich chestnut color, and since it's hand woven, it's a one-of-a-kind piece you'll travel with for sunny vacations to come.

For casual days of sun and sand, you'll need a pair of cutoffs. We'd go with these denim shorts ($60) for their bleach-washed color and flattering high-waisted fit. Wear them over your bathing suit as is, or pair them with a tee or linen blouse for the perfect OOO look.

After a long day by the water, it's always nice to have a lightweight top to throw on over sun-kissed shoulders. This puff-sleeve blouse ($43) is just the thing: it's airy and billowy in all the right places. Wear it half-tucked into your jean shorts or with a nicer pair of pants or a skirt for a dinner out.

There's nothing worse than arriving at your sunny destination only to realize you've forgotten sunglasses. So add them to your list this instant and pick up this pair of chic unisex frames ($19) from & Other Stories. We love the tortoiseshell frames and the bronzed lenses. They'll work well with all your outfits and protect your eyes from the elements.

Since shoes by far take up the most space in your luggage, the key is to pack a pair that can do it all: comfortable enough to walk on daily jaunts, that'll give you a little lift, and that will look good whether you're dressing way up or way down. Such is the case with these white espadrilles ($890). The platform will give you height without compromising comfort, while the top white webbing provides a cool, eye-catching look.

Every vacation needs at least one fancy night out. For that, we recommend this stunning linen mini ($850). With puffy, billowy sleeves; a center cutout; and an eye-catching pattern, it's practically begging to be worn somewhere tropical.

We get elegant vacation vibes from this beautiful tote ($898) that features pristine wicker cutouts, a plexiglass tortoise handle (that will look very nice with your sunglasses), and leather trim. Not too fancy for a day in the sun and not too beachy for a night out, it's sure to pull its weight in versatility no matter where you tote it.