thumb image

There’s nothing more blissful than a warm-weather vacation to help ease into the last stretch of winter and thaw out for spring. Here’s what I’m packing for travel to tropical destinations this season.

The Alémais Soleil linen sundress is the most beautiful dress to throw on after a day at the beach, paired with some delicate gold jewelry for instant elegance. The fabric reminds me of a collage of Matisse prints and feels very one-of-a-kind.

You’ll rarely catch me out in the sun without a hat on, and this season I’m packing my Lack of Color Cove hat with its wide, protective brim. This brand is known for its beautiful, natural and sustainable fabrics as well as a high level of sun protection.

Lisa Marie Fernandez was a top New York City stylist prior to identifying a need for chic, high-performance swimwear. Unrivaled in quality and fit, her swimsuits stand the test of time. My first LMF was a neoprene one-piece Bond girl silhouette with cap sleeves. Purchased in 2016 for diving in the Galápagos, it’s still perfect — proof that choosing quality over quantity is always your best bet. This year, I’m opting for her vintage-inspired seersucker Magdalena bikini in powder blue.

Artful Living | Publisher's Take: Spring 2023

Photography provided by Alémais, Lack of Color, Lisa Marie Fernandez, Vacation, St. Agni and Raie Eyewear

As my friends and family know, I’m a bit of a sunscreen connoisseur. Vacation sunscreen has a playful take on this essential item with Chardonnay Oil. The texture is reminiscent of tanning oil, but the formula is rich with emollients with a subtle tropical scent and broad-spectrum SPF 30. It was developed with the help of dermatologist and Skin Cancer Foundation Senior Vice President Elizabeth Hale, MD, who says that “the best sunscreen is the one you’re going to wear.”

I’m always adoring St. Agni’s minimalist designs, but I particularly love this small rattan tote with leather details for seamless utility from beach to dinner. One of the most important items I’ll slip in that bag is my travel soundtrack — a custom playlist to fit the vibe of the trip. I love the magical feeling of being transported back to my vacation when I hear those songs for years to come.

Raie Eyewear has become my go-to for a great pair of sunglasses. The brand’s signature cat-eye frames are made of bio acetate, which is renewable and biodegradable. The lenses are ultra dark with 100% UV protection, making them perfect for beach reading. Happy spring break!

My very best,

Emma Cutler Velez, Publisher

Read this article as it appears in the magazine.

Pin It on Pinterest

Share This