One-pieces have elevated from the weird ruched and wrap styles our moms used to wear. Between daring “eff the tan line” cut-outs, on-trend one-shoulder styles, and glam hardware details they’re becoming bona fide fashion statements. But will you be trading in your bikini for a onesy at the beach this spring break and summer? I’m curious!

The trends for spring/summer are a mish-mosh of ‘80s rock and ‘70s boho with “luxe,” “relaxed” and “edgy” pieces that fit into each category – so I asked Bluefly’s buyers (who have to shop wisely for a living) to break down ONLY the things the fashionista-on-a-budget absolutely needs. Here’s what they had to say:

1. A FLIRTY, FLOWY DRESS

You can interpret this trend a few different ways, according to our dress buyer, Sandy. Long or short, one-shouldered or sleeveless, a bold floral print or solid bright color, the goal is to have a dress that can easily translate from day to night with some statement-making detail. If you’re big on weekend trips, go with a jersey dress that packs well.

2. A CLASSIC TRENCHCOAT WITH A TWIST

The trenchcoat is a timeless spring classic and a great way to buy into the season’s biggest trends. For example, instead of the traditional khaki, go for a bold-color or a double-breasted style, or a belt with a wide buckle or oversized buttons – some detail that updates the trench so it feels timely.

3. AN “AGGRESSIVE” ACCESSORY

Whether it’s a pair of shoes or a new bag, it’s all about the over-the-top statement piece. Shoes: sky-scraping platforms heavy on the straps, studs, cutouts, fringe or perforations. The bolder the better, which means flats – unless they’re gladiators or timeless Cole Haan – are out. Jewelry too. Chandelier earrings, stacks of bangles, Grecian cuffs and ethnic pieces are the bling for spring. For bags think bright-colored or exotic-skin leathers, hardware like studs and grommets, and less obvious shapes like the clutch. If you can’t afford a designer bag right now, hot indie labels like Rebecca Minkoff (a celebrity fave) and Treesje have amazing wallet-friendly pieces that are totally on-trend.

4. “BOYFRIEND” BASICS

We got a preview of this trend when Katie Holmes was spotted wearing a pair of pegged jeans around town last summer and now “boyfriend” jeans are back. Our denim buyer, Jessica says worn, torn and “distressed” wash jeans are an important trend this spring mainly because people want to look good without looking they tried to look good. Our tees and cardigans buyer, Kate concurs, “It’s very, ‘I just threw it on,’” as she explains why some of spring’s hottest tees are made from “slub” – a cotton fabric looks deliberately broken-in and the trend in cardigans is cozy, oversized comfort with luxe nautical details.

5. A “BOHO GLAM” SWIMSUIT

Think graphic tribal prints, hardware details, embroidery and embellishments, our swimwear buyer, Joanna advises. If you want more bang for your bathing suit, go with a one-piece that can transform into a super-glam top over a flirty skirt or jeans.

You. Easy as a summer breeze. A Bikini, sparkly sandals, and off you go. The only piece missing? A killer cover-up that will take you on and off the sand. Here are three smashing looks sure to showcase you as the million-dollar babe that you are. Surf’s up.

The Kimono

Lolita Jaca of Saint Barth designs some of the most feminine, unique beachy creations on the planet. Her kimonos look sexy-cool over a two-piecer and can also double as tres chic cocktail party tops when paired with chandelier earrings and white jeans. The tops average between $500-600 each, but are classics that you will reach for in your closet summer after summer.

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When I pack for vacations, I tend to fall into the following two traps:

1. I pack too much. And by “too much,” I mean that I literally have to sit on my suitcase to get it closed. It then resembles something my sister fondly refers to as “the bloated whale.”
2. I pack too much black clothing. It’s easy, yes, because everything matches, but it’s boring.

For a beach vacation, you shouldn’t pack too much (think about all the shopping you’ll do!) and you also should not pack black, unless it’s a swimsuit. Who wears black skinny jeans at the beach?

Here are the absolute essentials you’ll need to pack:

1. More than 2 swimsuits and less than 5. If you take 5 or more swimsuits, you won’t ever wear them all as you’ll end up wearing your favorite over and over anyway. Besides, leave some space for picking up a new one at the local boutique. Mix and match bikinis, one-pieces, tankinis…whatever you prefer.
2. 2 beach cover-ups. Make one more athletic and casual, and one a little more dressy.
3. 1 sarong. Tie it around your waist, at your bustline, or turn it into a halter dress. Make sure it’s large enough–don’t skimp on size. Look here for some tips on tying sarongs into different shapes.
4. 2 dresses. Like the cover-ups, you should aim for one dressier piece and one more casual dress, but don’t go too overboard: beach towns are generally laidback and you shouldn’t have to worry about feeling underdressed. You’re on vacation! Leave the Spanx at home!
5. 2 pairs of flip-flops. Bring one pair in a fun color and the other pair in a neutral color, like brown or black.
6. 1 pair of dressy sandals. Try some with ankle ties or beading.
7. 1 pair of comfortable flats. Just in case you do some serious shopping or walking, pack your most comfortable flats.
8. 1 blouse/shirt with sleeves.
9. 1 tanktop or sleeveless shirt.
10. 1 pair of stylish shorts. Look for linen fabrics, cuffed bottoms and a slightly baggy style (avoid the Daisy Duke syndrome!)
11. 1 hoodie or light sweater. It’s sometimes cool at night by the water, so don’t forget a layer.
12. 1 beach tote. Keep it a little more formal than a backpack so it can double as your handbag for going out.
13. 1 wide-brimmed hat.
14. 1 pair of sunglasses.
    
15. Self-tanner/sunblock.

Don’t worry, I’m not going to leave you hanging…I’ll post my suggestions for all of these items over the next few days. Let’s get the one that causes us gals the most consternation out of the way, shall we?

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