Fashion decisions for spring break destinations

What with the weather these days running the gamut from tears-constantly-flowing-because-I’m-so-cold to heavens-to-betsy-isn’t-it-beautiful-for-March?-I-think-I’ll-skip-my-next-class-to-hang-outside, it is only fair that we poor Lexingtonians are quite befuddled by the constant change of climate. Yet, even though the climate keeps us guessing, I find myself waking each morning wondering what sort of magic the weather has conjured up for me to play with. And, not unlike our ever-varied climate, we students will hence be traveling to and fro to destinations beyond our wildest dreams — and occasionally beyond our memory of last night’s party — for one beautiful week of reprieve known as Spring Break.

Destination: Florida

Ahh, Spring Break on the beach, is there anything more relaxing? Luckily, along with total erasure of any responsibility comes the total lack of pressure for legitimate style. No one cares what anyone else is wearing; they’re drunk on the idea that school is almost out and midterms are over, or it’s possible they’re just, you know — drunk. But, you, savvy Florida-a-goer, you — you know that true style never rests and will dress to the nines though it’s possible no one will remember what you wore. For Florida, I would suggest a week of nonstop dresses. Long, cotton dresses, though they cover a good portion of your body, not only hide the day’s sunburn but also give you an air of ease that is somewhat mysterious. Short, flirty dresses with some gladiator heels will show off those bronzed legs and ooze sexiness. Whichever look you go for, try to veer away from the plethora of jean skirts (though I do love them) that will be abounding and stand out with basic style that can’t go wrong.

Party to: Britney Spears — “Circus” (God love her, I know I sure do)

Destination: New York City

Sadly, those traveling to the Big Apple will find that the weather will be similar to the less popular teeth-chattering nights of Lexington. But never fear, what NYC lacks in heat, it more than makes up for with a constant hum of adventure and fashion. As the fashion capital of the good ole U.S., New York almost demands some semblance of style (and if the city doesn’t then the people certainly do). But don’t fret! One word will save you from the “what should I pack?!” conundrum that plagues so many of us: black. Yes, New York fashion is far more intricate and far more crazy than the basic black, but I promise that black cigarette pants with black flats or boots, a slouchy tee and a leather bomber jacket and you will fit right in (oh! you’ll also need to wear an air of, “You bet I know where I’m going but I really don’t so I’m just going to pop into this bathroom so you can’t see me check my big fold-out map” — it’s a classic). If you aren’t a fan of black, then dress just about as crazy as you can and you’ll be fine. Word of warning, though: do not wear Uggs. They may be comfy but they are not fashionable.

Run the streets to: Family Fodder — “Savoir Faire” (would be perfect with a shopping montage)

Destination: California

Finally, if your location for Spring Break happens to be the west coast, then I’m extremely jealous (I’ve never been west of St. Louis — insert sad emoticon). But since I’ve never moseyed my way over there, I did some research and asked around and here is what I advise for a week in the city of angels (or thereabouts): casual hipster. There’s not nearly as much pressure to be fashion-forward in California as in its east coast brother, NYC, so a high-waisted cotton jersey skirt and a racer-back tank top will treat you right. Vintage items are always acceptable, as are any items of clothing purchased at American Apparel. Faded colors and creams match Cali’s laid-back style and are always a good option to pair with a good tan. Either way, make sure to take a camera to document all your celeb sightings (Larry David, anyone?).

Lounge around with: The Zombies — Care of Cell 44 (it will make you want to rent a convertible a la Carrie Bradshaw and company)

Whichever destination and whatever style you choose, make sure to be fabulous (always) and safe (please) so that you can make it back to Lexington with all its strange seasons for the ultimate vacation: summer.

Maggie Lanham is a merchandising, apparel and textiles junior.