Resort-chic: 3 Must-have outfits to pack

So you’re heading on a fab vacay to a swanky resort, huh? Lucky girl! While you’re planning away, don’t forget to pack these three must-have outfits!

What would a fancy vacation to a sweet resort be without a couple of nights out on the town? We shudder at the thought, really. To make sure you’re covered for any planned or impromptu nights out, make sure to pack a versatile ensemble that can work for multiple environments.

A flowy maxi dress is an absolute must, and we’re currently crushing on this one from Alberta Ferretti’s collection for Macy’s ($90). You can dress it up with heels (we’re obsessing over these $49 ones from New York & Company), a sexy updo, a statement necklace (try this $70 one from Banana Republic ) and a colorful clutch (go for this $69 one from bebe) for an elegant dinner.

Or, dress it down with colorful T-strap sandals (we love these $36 ones from Express), loose beachy waves and light makeup.

The most important thing you can do on your resort vacation is lounge on the beach. Seriously, ladies, how many other times do you get to be a total lazy beach bum?! If you’re planning to spend many of your vacation days on the beach, make sure to bring along a few fashion essentials.

Let’s start off with the perfect swimsuit! One-pieces are totally in this season, and they also let us get a little lazy with the SPF application. We love this bright one from JC Penney ($42). Are bikinis more your style? Try this colorful polka dot one from Kohl’s ($25). The color is totally resort chic!

Any beach loving lady also knows the importance of a chic cover up. Grab a neutral colored one like this white one from Macy’s ($70) so you can match it with all the lovely colored swimsuits you bring along with you. Last but not least, don’t forget to add a fun pair of flip flops like these ones from Victoria’s Secret ($23), a straw hat to shade you from the sun (we love this $38 one from J. Crew) and a sweet pair of shades, like these Kate Spade ones ($128).

Let’s get real, ladies — you’re going to want to do some sightseeing while you’re on vacay. Even though most of us want to get lazy by the cabana for the majority of our time away, we can never fully shake the urge to explore that gorgeous beachy land we’re visiting. For days when you actually venture outside the spa or the beach chair, make sure to take along a comfy yet totally chic ensemble.

Try pairing these comfy flower espadrilles from Target ($15) with a breezy top (like this $10 one from H&M) and statement shorts, like these fab red ones from the Loft ($45). Don’t forget a pair of sweet shades and an easy to carry purse!

Watch: How to wear your hair at the pool or beach

Love going to the beach or pool but don’t know what to do with your hair? Here are a few quick hairstyle ideas for beach days and pool parties.

More summer style

Brandi Glanville’s top swimwear tips and picks
Summer style made easy: 5 Sunny outfits
Trendspotting with Jill Laine: Summer scarves