Intern Hilary: All I want for Christmas is…resort wear

At a time when I should be focusing on finals, I can’t to get my mind off of one thing; resort wear.  Maybe it’s because the weather in Nashville has been unbelievably dreary, or perhaps it has something to do with the leaky window next to my bed that leaves me waking up every morning to freezing, damp air.  Whatever the reason, I find myself obsessed with the thought of sun, warm weather, and beach vacation attire.

I am counting down the days until my family’s annual Christmas trip to Palm Beach, where we do nothing but lay in the sun and eat all day long.  Although it will only be for four days, the thought of escaping the cold makes me eager to leave Nashville as soon as possible.

For anyone else embarking on a trip to warmer climates, I’ve compiled a list of what I think are the essential beach items:

1. A strapless bikini:  I’ve always been a fan of strapless dresses, so why not take that style to beach wear?  There are so many great choices out there, and I suggest looking at the options from Trina Turk and Victoria’s Secret for a wide price range.  I have my eye on a blue suit from J. Crew.
   
2. A straw fedora:  I’m aware this is a risk, as fedoras are trendy on the verge on being tacky.  However, the right hat, worn with the right amount of confidence, will not only complete your beach style but will also protect your nose from the harmful rays of the sun.  Look on amazon.com for some inexpensive choices.
3. A men’s shirt:  I’ve always been a fan of the oxford shirt, especially oversized flannel shirts from the men’s side of Gap or J. Crew.  While these button-downs have always been cold-weather staples for me, I’m dying to bring the trend to the surf.  My choice for this resort wear season is J. Crew men’s Secret Wash button-down shirt in classic gingham.  To translate gingham from picnic blanket to beach, I’m going with Southport green and adding a canary yellow monogram (after all, I will be in Palm Beach).
4. Simple leather sandals:  After seasons of drooling over the same pair of K. Jacques sandals, I may finally take the plunge despite the hefty price tag.  I’ll look at it as an investment because the classic styling and great quality will last longer than just a few seasons.

So while many of you will be toughing it out on the ski slopes come the holiday season, I’ll be kicking back on the beach and relaxing in the sunshine.  But before I can enjoy the warm weather, I’ve got to get through my finals.  Nothing’s worse than finding out you failed an exam when you’re on vacation, even if you are outfitted in the best resort wear.