What to Pack for the Weekend

As Memorial Day draws near and we anticipate a three-day weekend, many of us will be heading to the beach. For some it may be the first getaway of the season, and knowing what to pack just puts you in a tailspin. You may be inclined to just pile all your current favorites into your bag and be done with it. But wait! With a little planning you can look fabulous without taking your entire closet (or laundry basket!).

Packing for travel doesn't have to induce a headache. With a few simple strategies you'll have plenty of clothing for a weekend away and will feel great having streamlined your suitcase.

1/ Pack several neutral bottoms that can go with multiple tops: white jeans or pants, khaki shorts, denim shorts or capris. Give yourself a dressy option and one or two that will work for sightseeing, playing with the kids or just relaxing.

2/ Add 3-4 tops that will inject some color or pattern into your look. Include one basic tee that can be layered under a cardigan and a few chic tops that work on their own. These can be interchanged with any of the bottoms to create different looks.

3/ Stick with neutral, but not boring, accessories: gold hoops, silver chandalier earrings or a simple necklace in gold or silver can be worn with any of these looks.

4/ Pack three pairs of shoes: a pair that are both chic and comfy for daytime, a dressier pair of sandals for an evening out and a pair of flip flops for the beach.

Add in a few other necessities - a great swimsuit, a hat that works both on the beach and off, a sarong that doubles as a skirt or a swimsuit cover-up, and a bag that goes from beach bag to chic purse. A cardigan in a festive bright will work with all the tops if the weather goes chilly, and an anorak with short sleeves is great for an unexpected shower.

Keep your makeup routine simple. Instead of toting along your moisturizer and foundation, why not opt for a tinted moisturizer that includes an SPF? It'll give you sheer coverage that goes perfectly with beach hair. A colored lipgloss and a slick of mascara finish your look off in a flash.

Another item you could include is a sundress or maxidress. Layer these under the cardigan or jacket, or wear the sarong around your shoulders for evening. Tailor what exactly you bring to your activities each day. Don't forget a fabulous pair of sunglasses and some sunscreen and you're on your way to looking fabulous all weekend long. Bon Voyage!