An actual packing list!

Now, I am packing more than I would likely need, but I love any excuse to get dressed and it’s a big part of the gig. So you may not need seven different bags for a long weekend trip, but I hope this breakdown is a little more insightful than just a link on stories.

PACKING LIST

Clothing:

4 truly styled outfits // 2 just-in-case dresses // 2 lounge sets

• Styled outfits: vest + lace shorts // lace top + white jeans // button-up + ruffled shorts // chartreuse dress

Swim:

3 bikinis + 1 one-piece // 2 coverup dresses // 1 sheer maxi skirt // 1 cotton short

Shoes:

3 flips flops (1 jelly pair for the pool) // 3 wrap sandals // sneaker

Accessories:

5 bags and clutches // 2 beach totes // 2 beach hats // 1 shawl (could not recommend enough) // 4 pairs of sunglasses

Athleisure:

2 tanks // 2 shorts

Packing + toiletries:

suitcase // packing cubes // toiletry bag 1 // toiletry bag 2

OUTIFITS

Day 1:

travel outfit

sweater | jeans | black tote | flats (code DIANAMAY10 for a discount)

out to dinner at lulio

shawl | dress | sandal (alternate) | bag | sunglasses

Day 2:

morning workout + pool day

tank | shorts | sneakers | my favorite earbuds

striped tee | terry pant | sweater | sunglasses | coverup | bikini | tote (alternate) | sandal

dinner at marisella

vest | shorts | sandals | bag | shawl | sunglasses

Day 3:

pool day + dinner

one-piece | skirt | hat | sandal | bag | sunglasses

lace top | jeans | sandal | sardine clutch | sunglasses

Day 4:

pool day + dinner

bikini (top and bottom) | bandana hat | shorts | tote (alternate) | sandals

button up | shorts | sandal | bag | sunglasses | shawl

I stayed at the stunning Ritz Carlton Bacara, Santa Barbara and have nothing but good things to say about it. I’ll give you the full scoop about it soon!

The entirety of everything I packed, even if I did not wear it, is saved here.

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1. Every time I see a black mini dress, you know it’ll be added.

2. A very feminine flat for this summer. I’d love to pair the black with blue denim.

3. This organza tee will be a perfect summer swap for me when I just want to throw on a top a shorts.

4. Loving the length and cut of these denim shorts. Will be trying on in person!

5. If you want to dip your toes into the big round glasses, I’d give this pair a try. I also tried the Tom Ford pair in-store and they were fabbbb.

6. I hope to be wearing this red wrap skirt somewhere, dreaming, on the Mediterranean coast.

7. I saw these wrap sandals in burgundy and immediately thought they were the pair I have from A.Emery.

8. This is an item I definitely need to try on, but if this dress works I know I’m going to love it.

9. A sun hat, of course.

10. Lastly, a simple grab and go summer clutch.

Everything is linked on my ShopMy and LTK!

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Where I start my search: Usually The Real Real and Poshmark to try and find dresses from previous seasons that I loved. Even if the size is incorrect, I’ll buy it and take it to my tailor. Could not recommend going to a tailor enough.

Now for the dresses. I’ve added a range of styles and prices that would be suitable for casual to black-tie occasions, but if you’re looking for something specific, go ahead and drop a comment so I can look for some others.

I wore the brown dress on the left (but in blue) last weekend and it may be one of my favorites yet. The red polka-dot Dries dress is on my wishlist for a wedding this fall, and I will definitely be trying on in-store.

A few quick summer stylings.

left: Maygel Coronel Batista Dress | heels | earrings

right: Cinq a Sept Olena Gown | sunglasses | heels | earrings

Where I continue my search: I love a multi-brand retailer so I can browse a plethora of designers. My go-tos are Net-A-Porter, Mytheresa, Saks, Moda Operandi, Revolve, Couper, The Outnet, Shopbop, and Casalina for a very beach inspired option. From here, I’ll dive deeper into specific brands, or see if I can find any similar dresses secondhand. When it comes to rental platforms, I can only speak to the ones I’ve used, but I do think Rent the Runway is great for occasion dresses/gowns if you can get the timing right.

Don’t sleep on accessories when it comes to wedding guest dressing. I don’t think they’ll break your outfit, but a good bag and sunnies combo can definitely make it. Again, I love searching Etsy, Poshmark, and eBay for bags (especially beaded) because you come across such unique options.

accessories

I recently styled a client for an entire wedding weekend and these two things helped tremendously during the process.

1. Knowing the colors that worked best for her.

She sent over her color analysis which helped tremendously in narrowing down the dresses and lessened any worry that a certain color may not work.

2. Knowing the style of dress to go for.

Understanding her body type and what she liked was the reason I picked out halters, deep v-necks, and one shoulder dress options rather than square neck options or a cut that would accentuate the shoulders.

And for the fall stylings.

The black heels you see on the right were my most comfortable heels last year and I am thinking about getting them in cream this year.

left: Demi by Gabriella The Sabine Dress | earrings | sunglasses

right: Lovers and Friends Angela Gown | sunglasses | earrings | heels

Cheers to wedding season! x

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1. This dress has the potential to be my go-to summer event dress in the city.

2. Just in case you have extra room in your kitchen cabinet, I’m loving these bowls.

3. The perfect small woven tote for all summer outfits.

4. Another easy but elevated dress to throw on in a pinch.

5. I think these mismatched earrings would be perfectly playful for weddings this year.

6. A gorgeous tassel necklace that looks even better in person.

7. My jaw dropped when I saw the color of these flats.

8. Loving these poplin shorts in every color and print.

9. I have too many black wrap sandals, but I really want to make some room for this pair.

10. I saw this striped tee and immediately thought Staud. Will be packing in my pool bag.

Everything is linked on my ShopMy and LTK!

welcome party

I have come to learn that even when the invite says casual, everyone is dressing up. Fine with me! I think this dress could be for a welcome party or even a cocktail attire wedding itself. And although it’s not pictured, I’ll always recommend bringing a shawl. I love mine from J.Crew and Petite Plume.

Dress | Clutch | Shoes

wedding day

Starting out this wedding season with what may be my favorite dress! The color, the texture, and the playfulness were all so perfect. This is my second wedding guest dress I’ve worn from Aje and have not been disappointed.

Dress also here | Clutch | Shoes

travel day and free time

The wedding was in the evening so luckily we had a few hours to bop around Atlanta. We grabbed coffee at Spiller Park (delish iced vanilla latte) and shopped/ate around Ponce City Market.

You’ll rarely find me with just a carry-on, but in order to pack lighter I always make sure my airport outfit can double as my day time outfit. All I did here was swap out my jacket!

Trench cape | White Mitchell Jeans | Flats | Navy Clutch Bag | Earrings Stack | Sunglasses | Troy Jacket | Suitcase | Tote

Wedding guest dress Substack coming soon, stay tuned! x

1. I saw this towel in person today and loved it along with its matching bag.

2. Of course, another wrap sandal.

3. This red mini dress being on sale and fully in stock feels too good to be true? Can’t wait to wear it this summer.

4. There’s no such thing as too many pouches, especially when traveling. This light pink one may be my next addition.

5. I shared this terry set (top and bottom) in chartreuse and I’m sharing again, but this time in blue. I love it!

6. A jelly tote bag so it’s easier to clean this summer.

7. The navy and yellow combo for activewear specifically is one of my favorite combos. This bra and short set is currently sitting in my cart.

8. The cutest beach hat. And yes, it comes in tan.

9. I was looking for a red tank to go with my red J.Crew luna pant and stumbled across this one. I have high hopes.

10. Just another casual dress to throw on when you need something easy.

All linked on my ShopMy and LTK!

1. Loving this printed sandal, but especially because they look like they have a bit more cushion than your usual flip flop.

2. This linen halter top, a pair of jeans, and a printed sandal? Easy outfit done.

3. And if you need an easy mini to throw on, here’s a black linen option.

4. I saw this tank in store at Madewell and I did leave with it! I sized down one size to an XS.

5. Do these yellow tie-up sandals need any more convincing?

6. A statement pair of earrings for any beach vacation this year.

7. This dress to fill my white maxi dress gap.

8. A poplin pant? In multiple lengths? A no brainer.

9. I think this dress would make a gorgeous beach coverup.

10. These sandals are my favorite H&M find of the week.

Everything is saved on ShopMy and LTK!

1. A loose and flexible short I think I’d enjoy working out in.

2. Giving you a little sneak peak into my Sephora Sale favorites from Saie! My top three are the glowy super gel, city set ultra fine mist setting spray, and the sun melt cream bronzer.

3. Let the summer bags roll in. This pouch feels like a perfect go-to.

4. As you know, a swimsuit is basically required on every Tuesday Ten, and I’m loving this multicolor top and bottom. There’s also a pink/red version!

5. A darling crochet mini dress that I will be styling for the beach and for the bar.

6. I did order this terry set (top and bottom) for a casual run around look and can’t wait to style it.

7. If it’s light blue, it’s in my cart. These flats are no exception.

8. A poplin pant for the perfect beach day.

9. J.Crew currently has an extra 40% off of sale and I think these pants are perfect for the days you need to get dresses but are not in the mood for jeans or cords.

10. Making it my mission to wear more mini dresses this summer, why not!

Everything is linked on my ShopMy and LTK!

1. I have this summer hat in tan and love it!

2. This fringe scarf is something I’d throw over my coats in the fall or tie around my waist in the spring.

3. I’m picturing this easy soft polo with baggy white shorts, tie up sandals, and layered jewelry.

4. A fabulously studded pair of flip-flops.

5. Loving the simplicity of this one-piece swimsuit and the low back.

6. I know this eyelet tank launches tomorrow, but if I share it next Tuesday it’ll be out of stock.

7. All I have ever wanted is for Crown Affair to put their dry shampoo in a pump and they did in this collab! If you want to buy the separately the balm is here and the dry shampoo is here.

8. Another simple black mini dress to throw on next Tuesday when it hits 80 degrees.

9. Oh you know I will be checking out on these red linen pants.

10. Beautifully embroidered cream jeans for this spring.

1. A black maxi dress with a low back for the summer days you just want to throw something on without a thought. I’d probably tie a fringe or lace scarf around it as well when styling.

2. A pair of silk pants is a closet essential for me, but I actually prefer when the pant is not 100% silk because they wrinkle so fast. Loving this pair from J.Crew.

3. An itsy bitsy teenie weenie yellow polkadot bikini. Love this top and bottom from Aerie.

4. The cutest crochet mini skirt for the beach. Plus a longer crochet skirt as another option.

5. My cosmetic bag from Etsy is finally back in stock! And while we’re at it, I still love my personalized compact mirror and passport case.

6. I know these butter yellow loafers are just over $100, but with the discount code on their site they’re under $90.

7. My apartment is slowly coming together and something I want to elevate is my bedding, so I think these pillow cases could be a fun addition.

8. FYI you can have this cheese knife set personalized for the next time you have a party to host. Love all things Lazy Jamie.

9. I saw this J.Crew dress in the store the other day and loved it (on the hanger) immediately. I think it would be fab as a coverup, but also as a summer dress with a mini slip underneath.

10. I love anything bandana print and these shorts are no exception.

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More cities to come! x

LONDON

The Twenty Two

At the top of my list! I don’t know if I’d leave the room it’s so stunning. They also recently opened a location here in New York.

Six Senses

The spot to book if you want to lean into wellness.

The Chancery Rosewood

Another recently opened spot that feels like an escape from the city.

At Sloane

If you’re not staying at the hotel, might I recommend stopping into their reaturant for a bite or a moody glass of wine. I also love being a 20 second walk from Sloane Square.

The Connaught

A suite here would make me feel like a princess, and you would find me at the Aman spa for majority of the stay.

NoMad London

Situated a bit more near central London, I always keep the Nomad in my back pocket for an impromptu stay.

The Ned

This is where I’d stay if I knew my plans were mainly located in east London.

1 Hotel Mayfair

I’ve been here for a few events and every time I think to myself that I need to book a stay. It’s also in a wonderful location for bopping around.

Broadwick Soho

I just stayed here in January and loved it! Very centrally located and the rooms are beautiful, eclectic, and the staff is wonderful.

ENGLISH COUNTRYSIDE

Estelle Manor

My number one pick for this half of the list. I need a summer trip here.

Cowley Manor

The Bull

The Bull is part of Public House, who are also behind some of my favorite spots in London (The Pelican, The Hero, and The Fat Badger), so this one has been a favorite on my list for some time.

Soho Farmhouse

This one and Soho Beach House in Barcelona feel perfect for an unplugged weekend getaway. I also hear the food is better here than at Estelle Manor just an fyi!

Margate House

A perfectly pink boutique hotel with sea views. It’s a no brainer.

PRO TIP!

I book some of my hotels through the Shrtlst for a discounted rate, or I book with a Fora travel advisor for special perks during my stay such as room upgrades, early check-in, dining credits, and so much more.

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1. Hoping this is the last coat I share as we head into warmer weather. Unless I spot a wool coat on deep sale of course.

2. A pop of Missoni for your bathroom perhaps?

3. Another Doen-esque top, but for a third of the price.

4. Oh you will see me wearing this blue/grey funnel-neck walking around Central Park very soon.

5. Where was this babydoll cover-up when I needed it! Will definitely be ordering for beach trips later this year.

6. I won’t be serving clams any time soon, but for some reason I do need this plate.

7. If I had to describe myself in a cocktail napkin, it would be this.

8. A cute take on a simple flip-flop.

9. One of my favorite graphic tees is one sale! I sized up for a more lax fit.

10. The cutest woven summer bag.

Everything is saved here.

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Clothing

I eye this green skirt every time I walk by J.Crew, so next time I’ll stop in and try it on.

I need to pair this blush pink skirt with my polka-dot, pony-hair Manolos.

This light blue skirt? Very much a TBD.

Tibi always knows what they’re doing when it comes to pants.

Dreaming, drooling, and swooning over this silk-satin mini dress.

I need to see this blue leather jacket in-person stat.

Me. This dress. A beach. A spritz.

Bags + Shoes

Oh I love a studded mule.

As soon as size 39 comes back, these A.Emery sandals will move to buying.

I love everything Loeffler Randall does and cannot decide between the pink or black mesh flat.

The perfect mini baby blue bag.

I will be eyeing these next three bags until they’re in my closet. Starting with this stunning feathered clutch.

My favorite hug bag in chartreuse.

And a mini ponyhair hug…for weddings of course.

Jewelry

Currently can’t decide if I love the Henrietta or Bella earrings more.

Home

Fabulous drinking glasses that remind me of juicy mangos.

Clothing

I just ordered this yellow mini for a wedding welcome party and would love to pair it with a fun, floral heel.

You will see me wearing these pep rally pants at the bar during this March Madness season.

Bags + Shoes

You already know I bought these sneakers and walked 27k steps in them, so they have my stamp of approval.

Skin + Beauty

A restock of my favorite lotion.

Everything is saved here.

ICYMI!

1. A tank and pant beach set in case you’re headed somewhere warm. I’m patiently waiting for the dress version to come back in stock.

2. These denim shorts may be swaying me to go longer this summer?! Loving the light wash and the darker blue wash.

3. Oh I am a sucker for a woven bag and will be checking out on this brown one.

4. Unfortunately, it’s still sweater season. Fortunately, this one is still in stock in multiple colors.

5. Dare I say this is my favorite skin tint? I don’t love wearing face products outside of skincare, but have no issues with this! I am shade 7 and would say it’s a perfect match.

6. The never-ending search for “the top” continues, but this off-the-shoulder top may be a contender.

7. A simple pair of chocolate brown sandals to throw on instead of flip flops.

8. I shared the linen version of this black pant last week, and now here’s the crepe pair. They look like Madewell’s version of The Row gala, GAP easy wide-leg, and Clyque’s tommy pant.

9. Thinking ahead to my summer outfits, this necklace will go so well with strapless tops and tanks.

10. This week’s little kitchen luxuries are these blush pink glasses.

Everything is saved on ShopMy and LTK!

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Eat, beach, read, sleep, and repeat. Here are my thoughts on my recent stay at the W.

I’ve been to a handful of all-inclusive properties, so I felt I had a good baseline to compare. This is the W’s first all-inclusive, and my quick take-away is that it was good, not great. Truly still worth going if you already have it booked. It’s beautiful and clean (!!), but IMO can lean into being a better all-inclusive, or not be an all-inclusive at all.

I don’t go into all-inclusive’s thinking they will be the most luxurious stay, but I hold the W to a high(ish?) standard and felt that nothing really exceeded my expectations. My sister and I both agreed that to feel more like an all-inclusive there would be more activity options (exercises, wine tastings, evening parties, etc), and a better food scene (more options).

The stay was not bad by any means! The staff was wonderful, the property was beautiful, and I had a lovely, relaxing time. If I were to recommend an all-inclusive that I would return to, it would be Sanctuary Cap Cana which I chat a little bit more about here. If I were to recommend one of the nicest beach trips I’ve been on that’s not all-inclusive, it would be The Four Seasons Cabo San Lucas (not Los Cabos) that I wrote about here.

ROOM/RESORT

My sister and I stayed in the Premier Deluxe room with a private pool (2 King) and thought it was fab. So spacious and we loved having our own pool. The property had two pools (we mainly stayed at the more lax one and read), and we never had issues finding a chair. IYKYK. The gym was small but mighty, and unfortunately I cannot report back on the spa because I did not go.

FOOD

Let’s start with the best.

Satsuma Rooftop: Omggggg my sister and I still text about our meal here. It was hands down our favorite. The sushi and other raw fish dishes were so flavorful and fresh. My sister is basically a chef in my eyes (she loves to cook), so take her word for it!

Taman: Our second favorite spot that was good for lunch or dinner. Also loved it’s location on the beach.

Scena: A good backup option, but I would eat at one of the first two spots again if they’re open.

Trade Market: Buffet style which I don’t hate, but the options could’ve been better.

Noodle Bar: This was the first restaurant we ate at and were nervous what the rest of our meals would be like, but trust me it only went up from here. My sister and I agreed that they should scrap this restaurant and bring in one with a different cuisine.

33 1/3: Their speakeasy bar that I never made it to because I fell asleep before it opened, but my sister had good things to say about it.

Room service: We ended up ordering room service most days for breakfast instead of going to the Trade Market and I recommend going this route!

OUTFITS

BEACH

DINNERS

Let me know if you have questions and safe travels! x

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1. Every time I stray from the ilia base face milk, I am reminded why it’s my favorite. I’ll keep you posted if I ever find anything I like just as much.

2. A lighter jacket that would be perfect to pair with evening outfits.

3. These braided flats now come in cream!! The closest I’ve been able to find to the pair I wore all the time last year.

4. Do you mind if I put a swimsuit on every Tuesday Ten moving forward? Loving this one (top and bottom) from J.Crew.

5. An easy linen throw on pant that I’ll probably wear well into summer. Bonus points because they come in standard, short, and tall.

6. This striped polo felt cool, but simultaneously darling, so of course it’s in my cart.

7. More fringe please! Such a fab way to add some interest to an outfit and this top is doing just that.

8. A butter yellow bucket bag because spring has sprung (yes it is supposed to snow next Wednesday 🥲). It also comes in a handful of colors.

9. I'm imagining this twill cape with white eyelet shorts and a mesh flat.

10. This 2-in-1 gua sha and jade roller is the type of little luxury I love. It’s also gorg!

Everything is saved on ShopMy and LTK!

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1. Rosettes, but make them subtle. This one-piece swimsuit comes in a handful of colors and I really don’t think you can go wrong with any.

2. Cara Bastone’s new book, No Matter What, is officially out and I can’t wait to read it this week!! Last year I enjoyed reading One Golden Summer by Carley Fortune if you need another beach read.

3. Farm Rio will always be a warm weather fav and this sarong/swimsuit combo is on my list.

4. I spoke about this new sunscreen from Sofie Pavitt on socials, but my gosh I love the way it feels. Will be re-applying all week!

5. A classic pair of black sunnies for everyday and a bigger pair for fun!

6. Looooving this fringe scarf and would wear over my shoulders, but also as a beach skirt coverup.

7. I’ve been on a lilac kick, so of course this seersucker bikini (top and bottom) caught my eye.

8. If you’re headed to the beach or pool without a hat, let’s change that. Here’s a cute one on sale, and I’ll share my favs soon!

9. Once you go square toe flip-flop, you can’t go back. I alternate between these Tkees and my Havaianas.

10. And a tote to carry all of your beach essentials.

Everything saved on Shopmy and LTK.

A quick recap from my time in Switzerland! It really was eat, sleep, ski, and repeat everyday so this should be simple. It was my first time ever skiing (iconic place to start) and was certainly humbling, but I’d love nothing more than to add a few ski trips to my travels from now on.

I’ve broken down the details of the trip below, but let me know if you have any questions! x

Stay

Bergwelt Grindelwald

This property is part of Small Luxury Hotels! I love browsing their site for unique and boutique hotels, or for inspiration on new places and cities to stay in.

The hotel included breakfast in our stay and it was so nice to to have the ease of going downstairs, grabbing a bite, and heading out to ski. In addition, they have a fabulous spa and gym with multiple saunas, indoor and outdoor pools, and various spa services.

Transportation

I booked a car service with Blacklane to and from the airport and have nothing but good things to say about them! I also used them while in London and had no issues.

To get to the top of mountain I took the train (8 min walk from hotel) to the last stop, Kleine Scheidegg.

Ski

Gear: I bought everything prior except for boots and skis, but was able to rent both at the WYSS sports store which is conveniently located at the top of the mountain. I also rented a locker at WYSS so I could leave my boots and skis there instead of hauling them to and from the hotel everyday.

Ski pass: I bought at the hotel reception desk when I checked in.

Lessons: I also bought through the hotel, but emailed them ahead of time to make sure I could secure lessons. So worth it to take lessons!

Eat

It’s a small ski town with many people, so I’d recommend making reservations if you can. I dined at the below spots.

BG’s Grill (the hotel’s restaurant)

Basecamp

Golden India

Barry’s

1. I have this navy tank and just saw that it came out in different colors, so you’ll likely see me in the grey sooner rather than later.

2. And sometimes, H&M will get it done in the shoe department. Will be trying these studded flats on in person and will report back.

3. Still not over tassel statement necklaces and currently loving this one!

4. My most complimented pair of flats last summer was an off-white version similar to this red pair, so of course these are sitting in my cart.

5. Butter yellow for spring? Groundbreaking. But actually I’d love to pair this sweater with denim and would likely size up for an oversized look.

6. Ultra Violette released a new glowy spf ! Perfect for the days in the summer when I don’t want to wear makeup, but still want a little something.

7. Always on the lookout for the top. You know what I mean. Hoping this one fulfills the never-ending need for the “just a top and jeans!” text.

8. I know it sounds silly, but Bombas really does have incredible socks. I just got this perfect quarter ankle pair and will be replacing all of my old socks.

9. This cozy pair of mules for the days I want to wear my slippers everywhere I go.

10. A new favorite workout tank of mine from Free People! So comfortable and true to size.

Everything saved on ShopMy and LTK!

Clothing

A fun and flirty wedding guest dress

• This has actually been in my cart since last wedding season

The perfect vacation mini dress

Yet another stunning fringe top from SEA NY

My last grey hoodie I swear (for athleisure purposes)

The perfect grey zip hoodie (for an elevated version to the previous “last” grey hoodie)

Manifesting a tropical vacation for this dress

Waiting on the Madewell version of this top…unless

Call me when these beautiful yellow silk shorts go on sale

Bags + Shoes

A bag I want to carry around Mallorca

A bag I want to carry during a summer GNO (while dancing to Aperture in London)

Home

I raise your pink Ginori dinnerware for this brown teacup and plate

Beautiful glassware to make drinking water more fun

Accessories

These socks (with a pair of loafers mhmmm)

Skin + Beauty

A restock of eyepatches (a little morning luxury)

Clothing

A leather jacket I actually love

• I usually find them to be quite a harsh contrast to my usual style, but the fur collar softens it up for me.

A colorful striped swimsuit

• Will be styling soon!

Home

This s&p mill to mix and match with my yellow one. How gorg!

Everything is saved here.