I planned my spring break packing list ahead of time this year. I made a cup of coffee, opened my laptop with genuine confidence, and filled a cart with things I was excited about: new shapes, new silhouettes, the jelly sandal trend I’d been eyeing for a year.
Then I returned almost everything.
Package after package, almost everything ends as “not me.”
In my defeat, I grabbed a pencil and paper and tried to figure out what went wrong. I wanted loose, easy pieces, but I still felt like I was swimming in them. Like he was wearing a costume. A little trick I learned from a somatic therapist was helpful: Feel where the disappointment is in your body and let it speak. Don’t interfere or give it meaning.
What I really wanted was freedom and space. I wanted to feel feminine and refined but completely on my own terms. Not dressing for anyone’s gaze but mine.
That became the summary. And the second edition was completely different. I pulled out what I felt good in and then made some outfits from there. I trust that bringing what I like will be enough.
This is what was left on my packing list for spring break in Mexico
1. linen shorts with a cool edge detail that felt like themselves.
2. A crochet dress with a donkey, technically a swimsuit, which got an immediate yes on first wear.
3. A swimsuit I actually bought and returned last year, then ordered again and kept it this time. Bold pattern, big energy, a set on its own.
4. A Y2K style black halter that goes with everything.
5. The perfect sun hat.
6. Some chiffon blouses.
7. Likewise chiffon shorts to combine with the above.
8. A funny t-shirt that will overlay anything.
10. Simple flip flops.
11. classic rope sandals.
12. My little one sunglasses.
13. A yellow mesh grocery store bag for beach things.
The shell anklet and basket are also on the list, but they are things that are bought on vacation, not before. Some things you have to earn by actually being somewhere.
I’ll try to take some pictures while I’m there next week and share what actually turns out. It took a lot of effort and overthinking to realize that I was definitely doing it the wrong way.
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Kate is the founder of Wit & Delight. He is currently learning to play tennis and is always testing the limits of his creative muscle. Follow her on Instagram at @witanddelight_.
