By Gretta Monahan
What to pack for the final weekend getaway of summer depends, of course, on where you’re headed. Here are a few of my favorite discoveries and items to bring along, whether I’m going on a mountain retreat or a seaside jaunt.
The destination: Woodstock, Vermont
Where to stay: On the River Inn, a modern farmhouse-themed resort with a super-chic pool scene and a hoppin’ bistro serving some of Vermont’s best farm bounty.
What to pack: Escape the itch of mosquitoes and the awful scent of insect repellent with Aromaflage, a fragrance that doubles as bug spray. Aromaflage is a mix of vanilla, cedar wood and orange, and is 100 percent DEET free. For $65, you’re paying for a beautiful fragrance and protection from bites while on your adventure.
Gear up for a hike with some stylish yet supportive hiking boots. The Danner Mountain Light Cascade Hiking Boots from REI are cute, practical, water resistant and designed for comfort, and the red laces really pop in the woods.
The destination: Cape Elizabeth, Maine
Where to stay: Inn by the Sea, an environmentally conscious and pet-friendly inn filled with luxurious suites overlooking the ocean.
What to pack: Even if a swimsuit and cover-up has been your go-to combo all summer, you won’t want to leave this one behind. It covers you in all the places you need, but shows off your figure where you want it to. The One Piece Plunge from Everything But Water has a daring neckline and strappy X design in the back, but it’s comfortable and keeps your tummy in at all times. Pair it with the Feeling Knotty Caftan cover-up for a put-together ensemble on your way to the beach. When it gets chillier at night, throw on a comfy pullover sweater so you can walk the dunes and stay warm. The Alana Pullover from Free People comes in three beachy colors. Try the Shell Combo color and pair it with the Zigi Soho Mela Gladiator Sandal from DSW.a pack of 10)
The destination: Provincetown, Massachusetts
Where to stay: Lands End Inn, a grand, art deco mansion boasting a high-energy nightly cocktail hour and some of the most amazing water views on all of Cape Cod.
What to pack: Get Cape Cod-ready with a handful of items that are nautical knockouts. J. Crew’s Colorblock Stripe Ponte Dress is the perfect T-shirt, with its navy and ivory stripes and three-quarter-length sleeves. Accessorize it with a rope bracelet from Sailwinds Trading Co. and a cute beach tote from Nordstrom to add some brown leather accents. Now that you’ve got the outfit, add some summer glow to your body with a body glow oil. NARS’ Monoi Body Glow I will add a beautiful bronze glow or add to the tan you’ve been working on all summer.