1. A little white dress
Forget the LBD, this is the spring of the Little White Dress! A loose-fitting white dress is what you’ll want to wear out to dinner in the tropics. My favorite of the season is this Stella McCartney beaded slip dress.

For a less expensive option, here are some other LWDs I love:

Alexander Wang white asymmetrical drawstring dress

Julie Dillon tiered cotton sheath dress

2. A colorblock or printed tank
This season is all about color–especially colorblocking–and this M Missoni tank is the perfect piece to pack because it incorporates so many easy-to-match colors. The combination of blues, yellows, greens and a touch of black make it the ideal go-with-anything top.

Some other options:

Madison Marcus colorblock silk tank

Upson Downes Parfait tank top

3. A neutral pair of shorts that goes with everything

It pays to have a pair of shorts that you can mix and match with whatever is in your suitcase or throw on over your bikini bottoms at lunch time. I like these Current Elliot green Shorty Captain shorts.

I also like:
Theory white shorts

Kain drawstring shorts

4. A pair of jeweled sandals
Wearing sandals or flip flops with clear crystal embellishments is a smart way to dress up casual beach clothes and add a glam touch during the day or after dark. Right now, I’m loving this pair from Antik Batik.

For a lower priced version, try:

GAP jeweled flip flops

5. A canvas beach tote
A roomy bag to carry to the beach is an absolute must. Look for something that will fit all of your sunshine essentials: sunscreen, water, a trashy beach read, your iPod or Kindle, sunglasses, a foldable straw hat, pool toys and Swimmies. A neutral shade with a cute print, like this Bottega Veneta tote features, works well with a range of outfits and won’t get ruined if it gets wet.

For moms with an XXL load to haul, try Volcom’s Beach Leach beach tote