Eighty-degree weather, beaches, freedom. While we ride on the winding road of UW midterms, it is difficult to ignore our much-needed Spring Break.
I prefer warm, tropical locations, probably because I absolutely love the clothes that go with it. It may be a tease to shop for skirts and bathing suits, but for a study break, it is totally warranted. Get ready for sunshine and relaxation, Madison! Even if you aren't vacationing in the tropics, you can still enjoy avoiding your 8:50 on Mondays by planning out what you'll wear as you kick back and lounge.
What to wear in a time of relaxation? Anything you want. To my fellow travelers, the biggest mistake you can make is to over-pack. The more I travel, the more I realize how many superfluous items I drag along. Regardless of location, Acopolco or South Beach, no one needs more than four pairs of shoes. Flip-flops, sneakers, pumps and strappy sandals should do the trick. If you are super savvy, you can wear one piece more than once with different outfit combinations.
Taking less 'stuff' with you is the easiest way to keep track of your belongings and survive the hauling of a 40-50-pound bag. Many people our age run into the fallacy that they need to take their entire shampoo bottle or soap. Go to an outdoors store or pharmacy and pick up some small plastic bottles. Travel size items are meant to be used for travel. When you get to your final destination, you are going to want to relax. It will be difficult to relax if you have a suitcase that is half your size.
You will look gorgeous in whatever you wear once you shed the pale stigma of Wisconsin. When you get color (unless you've already made regular trips to fake bake), it is easier to wear color. The colors that are hot for spring are white, navy, tan and gold. Shed your winter skin of scarves and gloves for linen pants, flowy dresses and flip-flops.
Despite what many think, I don't believe in the so-called 'rules' of fashion. Wear white pants after Labor Day, wear mismatched styles, wear your bathing suit everywhere. When you dictate your personal style, you make the rules.
One of the hottest and most versatile trends for spring is the sailor-type look. Several high profile designers such as Ralph Lauren and Michael Kors are creating the most beautiful clothes to fit the trend and the season. The best part about this style is that it is diverse, utilizing stripes, bright colors, buttons — the works. It also incorporates vintage style from the '40s and re-creations from decades past.
Another great style anyone can flaunt on the beach is the sarong. Whatever your size, a sarong always fits. It can be manipulated into several different styles. With a simple sarong, make a skirt, dress or even a towel for the beach. As evidenced by the sarong, the best way to stay comfortable is with light fabrics. A couple of great fabrics for summer/spring weather are lightweight cotton, rayon, linen and chiffon.
Another way to stay beautiful: Use sunscreen. I don't want to sound like a motherly-type by saying this, but I have woken up from naps in the sun that have cost me big. I hurt everywhere and looked like a tomato. It is easy to wake up with a hangover, go to the beach, pass out and forget sunscreen. Do yourself a favor and remember to apply sunscreen liberally and often — your skin will thank you when you're 40.
Straying from fashion and on a more serious note, in light of Aruba kidnappings, when on Spring Break, never go it alone. Especially if you aren't in the United States. We may be young and cavalier, but we aren't naíve. Buddy up, hold hands, whatever. Ensure you return to school by staying safe and smart.
Otherwise, enjoy yourself. Spring Break is just a taste of the freedom of summer. Wherever you choose to go, we as Madison students have a plethora of beauty to look forward to this semester. This city is by far one of the most beautiful places to be when the seasons change.
We should appreciate and take advantage of our time to relax over break and the splendor of spring semester. For some, this is their last one left. As Ferris Bueller once said, "Time moves pretty fast. If you don't stop and look around once and a while, you might miss it." So take pleasure in the freedoms of our lifestyle, enjoy Spring Break whether here or abroad, and, most importantly, look absolutely fabulous while doing it.
