It's inevitable: If you're going on a summer vacay, you're going to want to buy some sweet new duds for the occasion. The only problem is that you usually wind up buying pieces that are only appropriate for said vacation. Instead of splurging on pieces that you'll never wear again, we've rounded up the best vacay buys that you can wear over and over again.
A kimono is innately summer-y, but a more structured version like this printed denim one will transcend the seasons. It's loose enough to cover you on your late night beach jaunts and polished enough to pull double duty in the place of a blazer when you are back at the office.
Current/Elliott The Kimono Printed Stretch-Denim Jacket, $340
Let us count the ways that we adore the maxi dress: It works for any and all dinner situations. Most pertinently, this splurge will serve you well whether your vacay plans are of the romantic kind or more about wholesome family fun. Even when you get back from your trip, a floor-length dress can be layered with coats and jackets for seasons to come.
Alice + Olivia Cheri Off Shoulder Ruffled Maxi With Belt, $495
Anything in silk is easy-breezy and automatically feels vacation-ready. On vacation, save a silk slip dress for your fancier engagements, like evenings out, but back home anything goes. If you pair the dress with a blazer, it's good to go for the office and if you match it with denim and sneakers, it's the ideal weekend uniform.
Raey Deep-V Silk Slip Dress, $190
Never do we ever leave for a warm-weather vacation without packing a romper...or four. However, an itty-bitty tropical-themed one hardly translates at the office, or even for a date night. For a sophisticated take on the summer romper, all you have to do is look for a wide-leg pant iteration. Think about it: It's lightweight enough to work well on the beach, but also classy enough for, perhaps, a company Christmas party.
Le Ciel Bleu Romper Jumpsuit, $366.94
Strappy sandals are a summer staple, there's no doubt about it. No, you won't be wearing these in the place of flip-flops, but chances are that even when you're back from vacation, there will be a time or two where you want to up the ante with a pair of red-hot showstoppers. Don't go too big (you're on holiday, after all) but make a subtle impact with a pair of tasseled kitten heels that bring the right amount of drama when the occasion calls.
Steven Valen Sandals, $99
We've already raved about the bucket bag, and if you're not on the drawstring carry-all bandwagon—get there now. Especially for vacations, when it's mandatory to lug around as little as possible on your person as possible, this adorable mini one is a must. Once you get back to reality, consider this side bag your go-to for date night, museum trips, theme park adventures and all other weekend or evening oriented outings in which you'll be leaving behind most of your loot.
Mansur Gavriel Mini Bucket Bag, $395
Sunglasses: Is there honestly a day that you ever go without them? Nah, we thought not. We already know you're vibing some new vacation duds and nothing, we mean nothing, will spruce up every single one of your outfits like a rad pair of sunglasses. Trust us: This designer pair is worth the investment.
Fendi Glitter Round-Frame Sunglasses, $406
A printed midi skirt is flirty without being over the top. It's formal without being frumpy. Something about its classic structure makes it feel timeless and sophisticated. On vacay, it will instantly pull your together your basic T-shirt and flip-flops, but back home, you can save it for more formal occasions, say a Mother's Day brunch or a meet-and-great with the in-laws.
Krizia Vintage Foliage Print Midi Skirt, $281.95
You want to know what's not sexy—especially on vacation? A sunburn. No matter how much SPF you lather on, sunburns do happen to good people who don't take shelter. In addition to diligently applying the 50+, keep covered with this stylish hat, which quite frankly never goes out of style.
Sensi Studio Classic Toquilla Straw Panama Hat, $120