It looks as though we’re finally seeing some light at the end of the tunnel, might that light be the sunshine gleaming back at our eyes from the ocean’s surface. Yes, I see it, I’m not dreaming. A beach vacation finally doesn’t seem like such a far-fetched dream, it’s one you can finally grasp, so get booking and packing.

Of course, if you’re like me, you’ll want to carry your whole world with you in that carry on, but since we love the idea of being organised and packing lightly. Here’s the ultimate list of things every fashion girl should pack. Don’t fear repeating items, all you have to do is mix and match them smartly and you can have a new look almost every single day. Read on for more.

Here’s a look at 12 items you should definitely pack for your beach vacay:

1) Sunscreen

Sun damage is the worst thing that can happen to your skin because the signs will only show as you start to age. So make sure you invest in the right kind of sunscreen that will guarantee protection against the harmful rays of the sun and  and always use the recommended amount.

2) Lip Balm

Summer means you need to do every bit to stay hydrated, that includes keeping your lips from getting chapped. Look for a good hydrating lip mask to wear before bedtime or one that you can wear in the daytime as well.

3) Sunglasses

Everyone needs a pair of fun shades for the summer that allows you to express your funky, cool side whilst protecting your eyes from the sun’s harsh rays.

4) Co-ord Set

The co-ord set trend hasn’t died down even an ounce, so get yourself on the bandwagon if you haven’t already. Choose these in a range of prints in lightweight fabric, opt for skirt sets, short sets, essentially whatever floats your boat. Look how cute they are and how fresh and put together you can end up looking.

5) Necklace

Since it’s the season for beads, opt for something tasteful that you need not worry about having to expose to summer sweat and water. Stack them or wear just one, either way these are going to stand out.

6) Sun Hat

I’m all about that, let’s take a nap on the beach kind of human but I also love my blinds and no light, so how does one kill two birds with one stone? Get yourself a nice oversized sun hat that you can cover your face with and take a nice long snooze by the pool or ocean-front.

7) Summer Dress

A soft cotton dress to absorb all your perspiration and keep you looking glam is after all the goal for beach holiday’s. We all want a dress that is easy to slip in and out of and one that’s not going to not prove to be a task to dress up for the night.

8) Heels

I don’t recommend heels for long nights on the town but if you have a special evening planned and don’t shy away from the glam, get yourself a real statement making, funky pair of heels. They’ll stand out on the plainest and simplest of dresses and you’ll be able to mix and match seamlessly if you love nailing the print on print trend too.

9) Swimwear

There is nothing better than a swimsuit that doesn’t make you feel conscious. For me it’s all about those high-wasted bottoms and a good print. But if you enjoy the one-piece or the regular two-piece suits try to opt for the two-tone colours or interesting prints if you like riding the waves of trends..

10) Sandals

Nobody likes getting sand in their shoes, so don’t be a smarta** and wear sneakers to the beach. Opt for flip-flops, slip-ons, tie-up sandals anything that lets your feet breathe.

11) Cover Up

If you want to truly be carefree and walk around in your swim suit make sure you pack a nice and easy cover up that can take you from the pool/ocean to a nice restaurant to grab some quick grub. You won’t regret it.

12) Beach Bag

Raffia and wicker bags have been all the rage for quite a while now, so it makes perfect sense that, that’s the kind of carry all you would want to take with you to the beach. Also handy when you need to clean out all the sand from your bag as well.

And don’t forget to get your bonus summer manicure in place to reflect your summer mood.

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