JET SET | My Shopbop Vacay (Non)Essentials

A super cute Jonathan Adler passport case.

If you're one of the lucky few to have a boarding pass waiting in your inbox right now, you're likely in the market for some beach-ready packables. Your basic one-piece bather and rubber flip-flops might have sufficed(ish) at the splash pad last summer but when on a tropical vacay, remember the following: you are a beach goddess. Your only mission is to drink heavenly rum-filled concoctions, not do the dishes, and look cute. Drinking and not doing dishes is easily done. The cute part?  You are obviously already cute. But it's tough to completely look the part when you're dealing with unstocked stores and rifled-through racks at Winners. Don't settle for leftovers, goddess. These finds from Shopbop will help you be the prettiest player on the playa. Bon voyage! I personally opt for the 'free shipping' option to avoid having to pay duties/customs up front. No promises but I've gotten away scot-free so far. 

Pitusa Abaya Maxi Dress, $98, Shopbop

Nixon Small Time Teller Watch, $60, Shopbop

Loeffler Randall Sarie Strappy Flat Sandals, $175, Shopbop

Bop Basics Neon Stripe Raffia Clutch, $100, Shopbop

Jules Smith Americana Choker, $98, Shopbop

Ancient Greek Sandals, $185, Shopbop

Marysia Swim Antibes Scallop Bikini

Joie Rose Gold San Remo Sandals, $150, Shopbop

9Seed Tulum Cover-Up, $128, Shopbop

Ray-Ban Mirrored Aviators, $170, Shopbop

Disclaimer: Real Life Runway occasionally receives vendor/brand sponsorships for mentioning their products and services. RLR only picks things that she is seriously tempted by - hence last night's binge-shop of the above products. Now all she needs is a plane ticket. Anyone?

JET SET: 70 Perfect Packing Essentials

A sunny pic from the new La Vie en Rose Spring Campaign. Photo: La Vie en Rose.

Originally posted in The LOOK

As the Sochi Olympics keep telling us, #WEAREWINTER. But by February, even the most die-hard Canadians among us are ready for some warmth. I mean, there's only so much white stuff one country can handle. And so it goes that every year around now, our thoughts start to drift southward. Daydreams of sun, surf and sand make the long, cold days more bearable. In our minds, breezy blouses, floaty dresses and beautiful bathing suits replace our massive parkas and clunky boots. Instead of an ergonomic shovel, we hold a margarita (or dos, por favor) in our outstretched hand. And even if we don't have a flight booked, we know that the warmer days of spring are just around the snowbank.

With Reading Week and March Break quickly approaching, I've put together a dream packing list for your next vacation. And, if you just so happen to have an extra ticket, I know of a certain fashion blogger who would really (REALLY) like to come with. Think about it. I'll even pack your suitcase.

Check out these 70 Perfect Vacation Essentials to help make packing more your next vacay a breeze...

READ MORE...

Sweet Escape

I love our winters and try my Canadian best to enjoy every moment. But, in the middle of a full-blown February Snowmaggedon and spring so close (yet so frustratingly far away), I'm kind of ready to pack it all in. And by pack it in, I mean literally;  I want to snatch my dusty suitcase out of the storage closet, fill it with cute little things, and take off somewhere steamy. Don't you?  Here are 4 perfect looks, ready and waiting for your next spring vacay:

Ray-Ban Wayfarers, $250, Sunglass Hut; Charm Necklace, $16, American Eagle; Floral Corset Bikini Top ($40) and Bottom ($25), American Eagle; Wedges, $100, ALDO; Men's Checked Shirt, $40, American Eagle

Stackable Bracelets, $12, ALDO; Pleated Floral Skirt, $15, American Eagle; Sparkly Thong Sandals, $50, ALDO; Bikini Top & Bottoms, $20 each, Garage

Ray-Ban Wayfarers, $250, Sunglass Hut; Solid Jersey Skirt, $20, Aeropostale; Metallic Flip-Flops, $20, American Eagle; Striped Halter Top & Bottoms, $25 each, American Eagle; Paisley Scarf, $25, American Eagle

Nixon Watch, $200, Boathouse; Polka-Dot One Piece, $37, Garage; Ponte Shift Dress, $150, Le Château; Ankle Strap Heel, $80, ALDO; Tory Burch Aviators, $240, Sunglass Hut; Military Jacket, $80, Dynamite

PS - When that halcyon day arrives and you're ready for take-off, don't forget these 10 warm-weather travel essentials:

1) An Oversized Scarf - this is a chic jet-setter's best friend since it can be used in so many ways - to keep you cozy in flight, as a poolside cover-up, and to dress up any of your neutrals when you head out at night

2) A Perfect Pair of Sunnies - sunglasses are essential for protecting your eyes from the glorious rays, but also instantly glam up any outfit.  If you're going to invest in a designer pair, Wayfarers or Aviators are an always-cool choice

3) A Great Hat - Many of us are intimidated by hats at home but on vacay, somehow, they feel just right. Pack an oversized floppy black hat or cool fedora to go incognito 

4) Sleek Sandals - Forego your grimy old flip-flops and pick up a metallic or embellished pair - they'll look equally at home by the pool or at lunch

5) Maxi Skirts/Dresses - Jersey maxi dresses or skirts are super versatile for a warm weather vacay.  Wear them layered over your bikini, out at the beach bar, or on your next exotic off-resort excursion

6) Statement Accessories - Keep your good jewels at home and hit up a cheap and cheerful accessories store like ALDO, American Eagle or Claire's.  Pick up a great stack of stretchy bracelets (see above), a statement necklace and fun cocktail rings to add instant personality to your tees, tanks and dresses.

7) A Perfect Swimsuit - If you're going to invest in one thing, this is it.  Make sure you pack a suit that fits, flatters and makes you feel like a goddess.  The key? Try, try, and try again (and a little self-tanner never hurt)

8) A Chic Beach Bag - An oversized tote that doubles as a carry-on will hold all your essentials (beach towel? check. steamy novel? check) and is infinitely more stylish than a plastic bag you swiped from your hotel room

9) Mix and Match Neutrals - Neutral tees, tanks, shorts and breezy blouses will all mix and match together so you can pack light.  Go for black, white, and khaki - then give them a makeover with your bright accessories.

10) An Embellished Clutch - A beaded, fringed or embroidered clutch fits easily into your suitcase pocket and makes a major statement when you head out at night.  Mojito on the beach, anyone?

Bon voyage! (Isn't it always?) xo

Originally posted in The Fashion Scoop