Pretty sure that Memorial Day Weekend snuck up on me. How it already the end of May?! For me, it traditionally marks the end of spring and the start of summer here in the Pacific Northwest. And as soon as the temperatures bumped up a few notches here, the first thing I wanted to do was go shopping for all the summer things! Give me all the cute hats, swimsuits, cover-ups, and sunglasses. Add a dash of sunscreen, a cute beach bag, and a good book to read, and I’m set.
Disclosure: This post is sponsored by Fred Meyer. Thanks so much for supporting the brands that support this blog! All opinions are my own. :)
Fortunately, Fred Meyer has all the essentials that I was looking for. They’re kind of my go-to place for anything; they’ve got groceries, clothing, housewares… pretty much everything you need to keep your life running smoothly. It’s kind of perfect to have a one-stop shop, especially when you’ve got a bit holiday weekend coming up and you kind of forgot about it. ;)
With that said, today I’ll be sharing some of my essentials that I found while shopping with a holiday trip in mind! But really, these would be perfect whether you’re planning a staycation or are flying 1,000 miles away!
Swimwear is essential
Having a cute bathing suit is both essential, and let’s be honest, not always easy to find. Imagine my surprise when I saw not just one but several adorable swimsuits at Fred Meyer! To be honest, I didn’t even realize they carried swimwear, let alone trendy styles like this halter top with palm leaves (and it’s totally reversible too)! I also picked up the matching hipster bottoms and a high waisted black bottom.
A cute + comfortable pair of sandals
Sandals are a must, and these pom pom cuties are perfect for the beach or strutting around town in. I love the subtle colorful stitching that really makes them pop! For those who don’t love black, they also come in brown and are under $15!
A cute beach tote
Under One Sky makes some of my favorite tote bags. They have some that are reversible, and right now Fred Meyer also carries a version that comes with a cute printed pouches! I picked the cream/yellow tote that also comes with a pineapple mini bag. Can you say obsessed?!
Keep yourself protected
Of course, safety is always key, and if you’re planning on hanging out at the beach to relax nd get a little sun, be sure to protect your valuables! One way I like to do that is by packing a discreet wallet. This one is by MUNDI, and it also has RFID protection, which means no one will be able to scan and steal your credit card numbers! It’s crazy the things you have to think about these days, but as I always say, better safe than sorry!
Vintage sunglasses
Okay, okay, while these aren’t true vintage frames, I’m really into the retro vibe these give off. The cat eye shape is perfect; the size is just right for my face, and I love the dark tint to block those bright rays. They have 100% UV protection which is always a must for me when finding sunglasses, and at under $20, these are a steal!
Off the shoulder anything
A day at the beach or lounging by the pool wouldn’t be complete with a cute swim cover up! I love this one from Fred Meyer’s house brand, GNW. It’s super lightweight, off the shoulder, and a midi length to keep you warm if the ocean breeze picks up a bit too much. Or, pair it with a cute denim jacket and wear it out to dinner! I love versatile pieces that you can wear multiple ways.
The perfect beach read
When I think of spring and summer vacations, I think of relaxation and getting a little reading done! My favorite books to pack are lighthearted reads; this isn’t the time for science fiction or heavy themes! I love Jojo Moyes books for that; she often has dual storylines happening in the same book which keeps me interested, and often there’s a historical aspect to her novels. Most of you probably have read or heard about Me Before You, but my real favorite of hers is The Girl You Left Behind. I can’t wait to dive into her latest, The Horse Dancer!
A cozy beach towel
I’m one of those weirdos that always seems to be cold, so when I saw these bright and colorful beach towels, and then felt them, I knew I had to pick one up! This one is coral and orange with pineapples all over. My kind of beach towel!
Keep the rays at bay
If there’s one thing I regret about my younger years, it’s that I often skipped the sunscreen. Don’t make the same mistake as I did, and always purchase SPF 30 or higher and apply generously every 1.5-2 hours! I love ALBA Botanics brand sunscreens, and this one is in a convenient spray tube to make reapplication simple!
I also have packed a cute beach hat from David and Young. Not only is it fashionable, but it will keep the sun off your face too!
Add a little glow
I’ve been into the whole less-is-more makeup as of late, and I can’t get enough of thePhysician’ss Formula Butter Blush and Butter Bronzers! Both have a subtle glow to them which means they’ll give you the look that you’ve gotten a little sun without really having to get any. ;) They also have an even lighter peach toned blush that would make the perfect highlight color on medium to deep skin tones too!
Off the shoulder anything
A day at the beach or lounging by the pool wouldn’t be complete with a cute swim cover up! I love this one from Fred Meyer’s house brand, GNW. It’s super lightweight, off the shoulder, and a midi length to keep you warm if the ocean breeze picks up a bit too much. Or, pair it with a cute denim jacket and wear it out to dinner! I love versatile pieces that you can wear multiple ways.
And that’s a wrap for all of my spring and summer holiday trip essentials! If you’re off on an adventure this Memorial Day Weekend, don’t forget to make a stop at Fred Meyer before you go!
Are you heading off to do anything fun this holiday weekend? If not, let me know if you’re planning any trip soon! I’d love to hear where you’re headed in the comments. :)
This is a sponsored conversation written by me on behalf of Fred Meyer. The opinions and text are all mine.
Nice to read. Sandals and vintage sun glasses are my favorites. So useful and informative tips. Many thanks for sharing them all.
Thanks so much for reading, Amy!