Slipping into spring break fashion mojo

Yes! Only one more day of classes until it’s time for warm-weather getaways and hot fun in the… Yes! Only one more day of classes until it’s time for warm-weather getaways and hot fun in the sun.

To aid you in getting your spring fashion mojo, I’ve included spring break essentials that I’ve gathered for my own trip to Negril, Jamaica.

This isn’t by any means a complete list, but think of it as a cheat sheet for sand, sea and street. So, whether you’re headed to an island resort or staying here in the ‘Burgh, these fashion basics will help you look effortlessly sexy while keeping cool for spring.

Printed Dresses: This spring break, don’t leave home without a cutesy, floral summer dress for frolicking on the shore or sashaying along the boardwalk. And even if you don’t wish to look like a flower pot or a home garden, spring 2006 is laced with big graphic patterns and psychedelic motifs that are playful and lightweight.

Swimsuits: Call me crazy, but for my trip I’m not bringing just a couple of suits for the beach – I’m bringing seven (one for each day). Now, they all aren’t name brand, and they definitely weren’t too expensive – well, except for my $100 gold bikini, but hey, every girl has to splurge on at least one or two – but the important thing is that I have a variety.

Flip through any swimwear catalog and you’ll see crochet, bandeau, halter, mesh, even Boho-inspired prints. With these choices, there is no excuse for insipid swim wear. Get cute!

Sunscreen: According to the Skin Care Foundation, UV rays that are reflected off water, sand and even cement are up to 90 percent as strong as those radiating directly from the sun itself, and that’s exactly why I purchased Neutrogena’s Ultra Soft Hydrating Sunblock.

It’s a lightweight lotion that moisturizes and softens the skin, all while protecting you from the rays of the scorching sun. And don’t think that just because your foundation is loaded with SPF 15 you won’t get burnt like a grilled hot dog at a family reunion. Play it safe and sunscreen it up.

Sunglasses: The bigger, the better! This season’s chic sunglasses have brightly colored frames that are hotter than a beach bonfire. Not only are they boldly bug-eyed, but they are perfect from looking anywhere from “surf” to sophisticated – all day long.

Bags: When choosing this season’s perfect bag for the beach, or just a bag to house all your souvenirs and tokens, think big and lots of detail. No longer only used to carry towels and sunscreen to the shore, bags can make bold statements and add a hint of personality to typical swimwear. What’s yours saying?

Spring Scent: Did you know that your olfactory senses are closely tied to memory? It’s true. Every time I catch a whiff of Tommy Hilfiger’s “Tommy Girl” I immediately feel 14 again and even have flashbacks of my ninth grade history class.

Because our sense of smell links us to events in our past, wouldn’t it be ideal to always have a special memory of your vacation? Purchase a special perfume, lotion or shower gel for your spring break trip and I promise you, every time your nose catches a whiff, you’ll be instantly reminded of your fun in the sun.

Flat Shoes: From patent leather flip-flops to peep-toe flats to mini slingback wedges, mix and match these poolside trends to add bling to your spring fling.

Or you could always stick to my old faithful: Old Navy flip-flops in every color. Not only are they comfortable, but they’re small enough to throw more than enough pairs into your travel bag. Rest assured I’ll be lighting up my look in slip-on fashion.

Straw Hat: For the past two weeks, a close friend and I have been on a serious straw hat hunt, and the experience has been less than luxurious. After scouring through department store after department store, I ended up going straight to www.shop.com and topped the season off with a beige straw hat that wasn’t too floppy and wasn’t too churchy.

As for my friend, well, she’s still hoping to take cover in a cool, spring-colored hat and all I have to say is: Keep hope alive.

Deena leaves for Jamaica on Sunday and still has a bit more shopping to do. If you’re in dire need of a shopping buddy, e-mail her at dmc18@pitt.edu.