Dear Paper Doll,

I’m looking forward to a beach vacation this summer, but I am stumped when it comes down to packing! It’s easy to gather up the basics, like shorts and flip-flops, of course. Yet I also want to bring a few pieces that are more vibrant, adventurous, and fun. I want to feel effortless yet glamorous—can you help me find some easy pieces with a great vacation vibe? Bonus points if you can recommend something appropriate for outings somewhat dressier than just sitting in a beach chair!

Thanks,

Fun in the Sun

Dear Fun,

Summer is my favorite season, and I’ve got just the thing to solve your packing problems! The key is bringing along a dress that’s well-suited to poolside cocktails, but which can easily be thrown on over a bathing suit like a chic cover-up. Add a few accessories with hints of the tropics, and you’ll be sunning yourself in style in no time! Check out this slideshow for some fabulous vacation-ready fashions from Yale ARTbooks.

Have a great trip—and send me a postcard!

With love and piña coladas,

See the books below for more fashion inspiration.

1. 100 Dresses: The Costume Institute / The Metropolitan Museum of Art
2. Unique By Design: Contemporary Jewelry in the Donna Schneier Collection
3. Silla: Korea’s Golden Kingdom
4. Shoe Obsession
5. Exposed: A History of Lingerie