After a long winter and a stressful week of midterm exams, it’s finally time for spring break! During the month of March, thousands of college students will celebrate the start of the season on a vacation from their studies. Whether you’re headed to the beach, back home, or staying on campus, use this guide as the ultimate checklist with your 4 spring break essentials for festivities!
1. Oversized Cardigan
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Enjoy tank tops and short shorts while beating the chill in an oversized cardigan.
Brandy Melville USA, $52.00
Spring is a time of year synonymous with breezy nights, so for evening walks on the beach and boardwalk, a cozy sweater is a must. A neutral-colored cardigan is the ideal piece to layer over any of the looks you plan on rocking, and is sure to make a fresh tan pop; while a sharply-colored or patterned cardigan becomes the statement piece to otherwise neutral outfits.
- Dress it up:
An oversized cardigan instantly transforms a scandalous ensemble to something more conservative, so pair it with low-cut tops or tight dresses, skirts, and shorts for dining or a night on the town.
- Dress it down:
This style sweater is that “something extra” you’ve been seeking to spice up the classic jeans and tee shirt — it lets the original pieces you chose shine through, while making the look more complete. Simplicity is key here, so a pair of statement earrings and a basic tote bag are the only accessories needed for this outfit.
2. Tank Dress
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While this cute dress is far from a frumpy tee shirt, it is just as easy to throw on.
Brandy Melville USA, $30.00
Spring break is a time to get away from all the stresses your college studies put on you — and that includes fussing over daily ensembles. A loose-fitting tank dress will become your go-to piece for daytime. Perfect for a lunch date, a shopping trip, or as a cover-up on the beach or poolside, you can’t go wrong with a tank dress.
- Dress it up:
Take this simple dress a step further and style it with turquoise jewelry, a sleek ponytail, and a neutral-colored wedge. Add a pair of oversized sunglasses for that iconic, effortless West Coast look.
- Dress it down:
A tank dress is super-stylish with gladiator sandals, a big tote, and saltwater-induced curls. Don’t forget the straw sun hat!
3. Fun Pair of Cut-offs
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The denim cut-offs you know and love get a blast from the past with an acid wash and a high-rise fit.
Urban Outfitters, $49.00
A unique pair of denim shorts is one of the easiest ways to spice up your warm weather wardrobe. While most spring-breakers are likely to bring along basic blue-jean styles, look for pairs that are embellished, embroidered, or dyed unconventional colors to stand out from the crowd. Bring out your inner fashion designer by adding studs or patchwork to shorts you already own, available at craft stores.
- Dress it up:
Give these shorts a feminine twist but pairing them with a lace or chiffon blouse and ankle booties for a day or night out. Curled hair with a middle part is an additional way to make this look more girly.
- Dress it down:
Crop tops and concert tees make these shorts beach- and boardwalk-ready. For fuss-free hair, a fishtail braid never fails on vacation. When all else fails, your favorite bandeau and go-to sandals complete the beach babe look.
4. Hi-Low Skirt
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Forever 21, $17.80
While on break, it’s likely you will encounter at least one celebration that requires dressy attire — a hi-low skirt is well in order at these events. Hi-low skirts are all the rage this season, so it is certain you will find a color or pattern that is the perfect asset to your unique personal style.
- Dress it up:
Depending on how formal the event is, both stilettos and flat sandals (and everything in between) are acceptable footwear options when it comes to hi-low skirts. Patent stilettos are certain to maintain a fresh and youthful vibe, while worn leather sandals are boho-chic. Keep your blouse plain — since the majority of your legs are covered, a simple, solid tube top can be an appropriate option — and carry a clutch-style purse. For additional charm, pearl jewelry brightens up the look.
- Dress it down:
It’s nearly impossible to go wrong with neon colors or graphic tanks during the spring and S\summer; tuck a longer tank into your hi-low skirt for instant glamour that is still fun and casual. Depending where your spring break adventures take you, both street sneakers and sandals work with this outfit. Keep up with the boho look by braiding your wet hair, and then shaking it out once dry, for the perfect beach waves.
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