The Gingham Dress You Need For Your Summer Vacation

It's gingham, it's midi, it has a big bow on the back and it's currently 50% off. What's not to like? I have had my eye on this Claudie Pierlot dress since it came out this spring but I decided to wait until the sales because I wasn't going to be able to wear it until summer anyway. Lucky me, I found my size for half the price. I'm definitely taking this beauty with me everywhere this summer.

Today I want to give you some ideas on what to pack if you are traveling to Spain or somewhere hot this summer.
If you are coming to my beautiful country, my advice is for you to pack lots of dresses: midi, mini, maxi, all kinds! If you are not a dress kind-of-gal, cutoffs and shorts will be your best friends. Jeans are out of the questions, living in Spain my legs are bare from June to September otherwise I can't stand the heat. To sum up, you need lightweight pieces.

As for shoes, old Europe is filled with cobblestone streets so comfy sandals or espadrilles should be in your suitcase. Don't freak out if you forget the latter, Spain is famous for their espadrilles (trendy Castañer is Spanish) so you can always get a pair here.

Protect yourself from the sun! When I was a teenager I used to avoid sunscreen because I thought that was the only way to get that summer glow...Oh, how I wish I hadn't been so stupid! Fortunately, I'm older and wiser now and pack my straw hat, sunglasses and sunscreen first.

North vs. South
You may have heard many stereotypes about Spain but good weather doesn't apply everywhere. If you are traveling north, pack a cardigan because the nights can get cooler. It's more likely to rain too, so don't forget your umbrella.

Colors and patterns
Ok, this one is more for Instagrammers and those looking for the perfect photo. Colorful outfits will help you get that Spanish vibe. Red, yellow, orange, fuchsia... Polka dots say flamenco like no other pattern. The perfect finishing touch? combine any of those with ruffles.

I've been talking a lot about clothes but of course, don't forget to pack a good book! I'm reading Inferno by Dan Brown at the moment. What are you reading?

THE PRETTIEST GINGHAM DRESSES