FASHIONISTA LOOKS: Travel/Vacation Style: Do's & Dont's

We're right in the heart of summer and for some of us, it already feels like we're living out of our suitcase.

Truth is for the past few weeks, I am in a semi-packed situation, since I've been traveling a bit, so unpacking and then re-packing sort of feels like a waste of time. This has been an incredible summer so far and July has been very kind to me. I finally start to feel like the pressure is lifted off my shoulders after a hectic spring/early summer with continuous exams and intensive studying sessions.

Feeling inspired by my own little trips and whereabouts I decided it was appropriate to make a post on my travel essentials/outfits and tips for packing the right things.

When packing I feel like always less is more. Especially when you're traveling abroad you have to keep in mind that your suitcase will come home with more stuff than what you originally packed.

Outfits

When it comes to clothing, less is more. Do not pack 'options'. Decide what you're going to wear and where and stick to that. I usually go for outfits that comprise of 2 pieces (meaning a top and a bottom) so I can mix and match during my trip.

As far as accessories go, do not overdo it. When you're traveling, especially during summertime, you should aim for comfort and casualty without looking basic of course. Take a couple of statement pieces as these will give life to your simple tees and shorts. As for shoes, I say no to heels unless I go somewhere really special. You always have to keep in mind the environment and the concept of the place where you're going to flaunt your outfit. If it's a Greek island, with its narrow, cobblestone pavements and rocky landscape, heels are definitely a no-no. If you're going to a glamorous metropolitan city like Paris or New York, or staying at a fancy resort, then why not don these fab stilettos?

Here's 2 outfits I wore when I was in Mykonos and Milos: (taken from my Instagram)

Mykonos outfit by fashionistalooks on polyvore.com

Milos outfit by fashionistalooks on polyvore.com

Beauty/ Makeup

The good thing about makeup during the summer holidays is that you don't have to think too much about it. Going makeup-free on most days feels right. You also got that tan that makes everything better, right? However, we do want to glam it up from time to time so packing a few lifesaving products is a must.

My advice is go for lightweight but long-wearing products. My go-to picks would be tinted moisturizer/BB cream, waterproof mascara, a long wearing cream eyeshadow and a little bronzer-blush palette that can also serve as eyeshadow. And as for the lips, get yourself some lip balm and a couple of cute colorful lipglosses. No heavy liners, cakey powdering or heavy-duty concealing. Let your natural beauty show through.

Your skincare though, is not something to go easy on. Good cleansing and moisturizing is absolutely necessary at this time of the year (or any time really) since your skin will be exposed to a lot of sun, dirt, sweat and the like. Never, but NEVER skip your SPF and make sure to re-apply during the day. I made that mistake myself when I was in Milos and forgot to re-apply my facial SPF after I got out of the sea so I ended up with a red nose - not cute.

Make sure to also keep your body moisturized with a good body lotion, I suggest a cooling one with aloe vera that will soothe the skin after the sun. Exfoliation is also important if you're tanning to maintain an even color. Keep in mind that you need to pack mini travel versions of the products or if you're staying somewhere really long, buy them from there (if of course the items you want are available).

An extra thing to throw in your beach bag is what I call my "fancy water" which is thermal spring water with soothing properties that make you feel refreshed. Mine is the La Roche Posay Thermal Spring Water, but there is also an Evian one that is quite good and an Avene one. French Pharmacy brands really nail it when it comes to skincare in my opinion.

Here's a few outfit ideas and beach essentials I came up with: