Spring is finally upon us, and that means it's time to prep for spring break. Whether you're heading to the beach or to a big city, your packing strategy should remain the same: bring essentials you can wear again and again, and make sure you've got shoes that are made for walking. You can't forget a good bag, either, whether you just need to fit your passport and a wallet or a towel and a book — also, a pair of chic sunglasses for that coveted vacation anonymity.
Below, you'll find a selection of clothes and accessories that we'll be tossing into our luggage for our spring getaways. Pick up a few, then head out of town — these picks are made for happy travels.
Banana Republic Cotton Cable Knit Sweater
It doesn't matter if you're headed somewhere warm or cool, you'll always need a good cozy sweater. This sumptuous cotton cable knit [1] ($160) will keep you toasty after a day at the beach (paired with an airy silk maxi) or under a leather jacket during long walks in a far-off city. Pick it up in white or the spring-ready "I love blue."
Vince Warren Platform Sneakers
Like we mentioned before, if you're going to be doing a lot of walking, you're going to need some good shoes. These Vince sneakers [2] ($225) deliver on comfort and style. Simply slip them on for a little platform boost and hours of blister-free wear. And don't be scared to pair them with a little dress. They'll work with whatever you've got packed.
Banana Republic Flounce Hem Mini Dress
With ruching at the shoulders, balloon sleeves, and top-stitched side pockets, this dress [3] ($110-$135, originally $180) was built for stylish exploration. We love that you can wear it relaxed or cinched with a belt — and that it comes in so many colors, including vibrant red and leopard-print.
Miu Miu Platform Leather Sandals
When it comes to sandals, pick a pair that'll give you a little bit of height without compromising comfort, like this chunky pair [4] ($695) from Miu Miu. We love that they'd go just as well with a dress as a pair of relaxed jeans. With a thick rubber lug sole, they'll keep you supported, whether you're doing a 10,000-step day in a city or dancing the night away somewhere exotic.
Banana Republic Ribbed Tank Dress
This ribbed tank dress [5] ($90) will work hard in your vacation wardrobe. We love that it folds up nice and small and can be worn with everything from a denim jacket and booties to a simple pair of sandals. Whether you choose to dress it up or down, you'll appreciate the athletic silhouette (perfect for sun-kissed shoulders) and the super-soft material with a touch of spandex stretch.
Johanna Ortiz Beach Bag
When it comes to toting a beach bag, make sure it's actually big enough to carry all the essentials. This one [6] ($495), by Johanna Ortiz, is made of Iraca palm with leather accents, and it will not only hold what you need, it'll look really good in the process.
Oliver Peoples Sunglasses
Picking a pair of sunglasses can be tricky, especially online, but you can't go wrong with a pair of round frames [7] ($525) from Oliver Peoples. This pair features mirrored lenses and a gold frame — perfect for your casual-cool vacation vibe.
Banana Republic Heritage Leather Belt Bag
For big-city trips, keep yourself hands-free with this beautifully crafted leather belt bag [8] ($120). Pop it around your waist with your phone and wallet, then head out for a day of shopping. Saving your arm strength for all your new treats is always a good idea.
Cult Gaia Yaro Knit Dress
If you're packing for a beach vacation, you'll want a cover-up that'll take you from the room to the sand to the cafe for lunch. This knit tank dress [9] ($328) will do just the trick — and have you looking endlessly chic with the vibrant summer-ready orange.