When I was a student at LSU, I managed the one and only Rode’o Boutique. This Baton Rouge hotspot is magazine material and deserves a spot on Rodeo Drive. Whether you’re a young professional, student, or new mom, it’s nearly impossible to leave the store without a bag full of goodies. When prepping for my trip, I had a feeling Rode’o would have something suitable for the tropics. After all, the Louisiana heat and humidity is “impressive.” Sure enough, the Viviana Romper was the perfect addition to my Puerto Vallarta attire.

Cut out garments are great in tropical climates. They have the same affect as cracking a window in a steamy room! Hopefully the photos do this thing justice The print reminds me of a beautiful acrylic painting. I am not sure what I like more, the vibrant hues or the playful fit! Regardless, I wore this little number to a rooftop dinner at Hacienda San Angel. There we celebrated my parent’s 45th Wedding Anniversary. For this happy occasion, I dressed it with rose gold sandals and matching tassel earrings. But what’s really special about this romper is that it can go from beach to dinner. For a daytime look, I’d swap the heels for flip-flops and throw my hair in a bun. There’s no point in fighting the humidity…clearly!

Shop my Puerto Vallarta Attire here:

Romper (c/o) | Sandals | Purse (similar here and here) | Earrings | Bracelet

A special thanks to Rode’o Boutique for bringing you this post and to Ulises L. Guerrero Photography for capturing the moment.

The post Puerto Vallarta Attire: Cutout Romper appeared first on Kelsey Kaplan Fashion.

Organization is Key

With unpleasant baggage fees and luggage restrictions, packing smart has never been more important. I always try to bring pieces that I can re-wear and shoes that match with multiple looks. But practice makes perfect. If you are still trying to find your packing rhythm, consider coordinating outfits on paper first. When you write everything down, you are less likely to fill your suitcase with excess weight. I usually do this in the notes app on my iPhone. With the new checkmark function it’s almost impossible to forget something…and I need all the help I can get in that department! I also use the UPS app to track the items I am waiting on. It’s free and it will send you push notifications regarding the status of your package. Tip* Use the nickname feature to label your incoming parcels.

Beach Vacation Essentials

So what’s inside my suitcase?! A classic black one-piece – probably the most versatile item for vacation. I also included a fashionable round beach towel. Although the hotel will have them fully stocked at the pool, it’s fun to make a statement with a chic accessory! Also included is a gold statement necklace. I do not like weigh down my luggage with a ton of jewelry when I travel. It is too fragile and easy to lose. This stunner will pair well with my swimsuit as well as a solid top and cut off shorts. Now let’s talk about footwear. Flip flops and the beach go hand in hand. I am packing a black faux leather pair. Although it’ll require me to dry of before slipping them on, I prefer imitation leather because it can go dressy or casual. Finally, if you follow me on Instagram, then you already caught a glimpse of my new beach bag! I have been on the hunt for a straw bag that would fit all my essentials and some. This pretty little thing is just the right size and an unbeatable price ($28)!

If you have traveled to Puerto Vallarta, send your recommendations this way! Thanks for reading and be sure to follow along on Instagram stories to see the rest of my beach looks. In the meantime, shop the post:

Swimsuit | Necklace | Towel | Hat | Flip Flops | Sunglasses | Bag | Sunscreen

The post Packing for Puerto Vallarta appeared first on Kelsey Kaplan Fashion.

This beaut is elegant enough that is it is suitable for many occasions. You could easily pair it with some dainty high heels for a cocktail evening on the town or pair it with some white or gold flats for a casual yet very fashionable happy hour. Whenever I rock a maxi dress though, I go straight for the heels (surprise surprise). But when you’re only five feet tall, a maxi dress has a swallowing effect unless you give yourself a boost! #shortpeopleproblems

I chose this dress for a romantic dinner overlooking the ocean. There’s no better time to wear a dress covered in sea urchins, sand dollars, and sea stars than when you’re on a beach trip. To avoid the potato sack look, I fasted a skinny chartreuse belt around my waist – my fav fashion hack. I accessorized lightly with a white and gold clutch, laser cut sandals and white statement earrings. If you haven’t noticed already, the top knot is my go-to vacation hairstyle and it’s a great way to show off some ear bling! Shop a variety of Lilly Pulitzer maxi dresses here.

In case you were wondering, dinner overlooking the water at Cocina Del Mar at Hotel Esperanza was exquisite! This goes for the service and the food. I highly recommend this four course dinner for a special occasion during your next getaway to Cabo. A special thanks to Chef Cerda for preparing this delicious off the menu steak with chimichuri and mashed potatoes.

If you are reading this post from your email, visit KKandGG.com for the web version and to peruse all other outfits of the day.

The post Sea Urchin for You maxi dress appeared first on Kelsey Kaplan Fashion.