Spring break always comes at the perfect time. Just as we’re starting to get burnt out from demanding classes, we get a week of freedom. Some of us use this time to relax, while others use it as an excuse to get wasted. Either way, here’s what you should wear.
Outdoor adventure
You’re probably heading somewhere like Boulder, Colo. or the Grand Canyon for some rock climbing or hiking. Are you trying to make the rest of us look bad with your active lifestyle? Spend your spring break being lazy like everyone else.
If you insist on going, you’ll be moving a lot, so your suitcase (read: hiking backpack) should be filled with comfortable sportswear, which, conveniently, is one of spring’s hottest trends for women.
You should also try to bring layers, because the temperature tends to fluctuate out West and you don’t want to be the fool from Minnesota who freezes when it drops 34 degrees at night.
Partying
If you’re caravanning five deep in a Honda Civic to Panama City Beach, Fla. or South Padre Island, Texas, the first thing you should do is make sure everything you bring matches a red Solo cup.
Next, go to Target and buy every bikini you see because, let’s face it, you won’t be wearing anything other than a bathing suit unless it’s neon or has “blackout” written on it somewhere.
Use the extra space in your luggage for sunscreen and Gatorade, because God knows you’re going to need it.
Home with friends
How close are you to these “friends”? Very close? Good, that means you don’t have to put any effort into your appearance this spring break. It’s sweatpants, fuzzy socks and sloth for you, my friend.
Bring one or two nice outfits in case you choose to go out in public, because it’s scientifically proven that you will only run into your high school enemy or an ex when you look terrible. Skinny jeans, ankle booties and a leather jacket are a safe bet. The combo is simple, yet fierce.
Exploring a city
If you’re spending your spring break traversing a new city, you’ll want to dress like a true city dweller, while also being comfortable on your feet all day.
Depending on the climate of your chosen city, you’ll probably want to pack a coat or two — if you want to impress the locals, choose a trendy collarless coat.
You’ll also want to avoid toting around a heavy purse all day, so choose a fringe cross-body bag, which is both efficient and stylish. And please, no matter how comfortable they are, don’t wear sneakers. No one wears sneakers in public anymore, except old ladies who walk around the mall.
Relaxing beach trip
Unlike your Cancun partying counterparts, you’re going to a chill, coastal city like Tybee Island, Ga., or San Diego, Calif., to actually enjoy the beach, rather than making out with random strangers.
This relaxing environment calls for flowy maxi skirts, simple sandals, wide-brimmed sun hats and a plethora of swimsuit options. Light fabrics and bright colors are your new best friends.
A strawberry daiquiri and a good book will basically make the quaint little beach town into nirvana. Soak up the sun while you can, because before you know it, you’ll be back in Minneapolis, where the entire city is submerged in melting slush.
Stuck on campus
If you’re unable to leave campus for spring break, whether it’s due to work or your tight budget, the only advice I can give you is to wear a parka and buy some whiskey. It’s the only way you’ll get through it.
