Packing for a Florida escape means adhering to a polished warm-weather dress code. At Beach Club, a hotel within The Boca Raton resort that just completed a $120 million renovation, this means curating a travel wardrobe that looks as at home in the water as it does on a yacht. Dress in shades of soft sand and palm green for the scene at the Harborside Pool Club, where butlers deliver pitchers of rum punch to private cabanas; come sundown, glam things up with a flash of gold or pearls. You’ll feel right at home in guest rooms that have been reborn with teal and coral-colored velvet accents—the same classic, refined image of Florida that The Boca Raton helped invent when it opened nearly a century ago. Below, our curated list of vibrant and chic packing essentials for a trip to The Boca Raton. Colorful two-piece sets, embroidered linen tops, and timeless accessories are all included.
This article appeared in the December 2024 issue of Condé Nast Traveler. Subscribe to the magazine here.
The Boca Raton–inspired pieces we love:
The essential linen top
A breezy button-down shirt is a non-negotiable on almost any packing list. When you’re headed somewhere warm, opt for one in a breathable material like linen. These staples can be dressed up with slacks for dinner or worn more casually with shorts or light-colored pants for a boat day.
The evening dress
When the sun sets and it’s time for dinner, you’ll want a colorful, lightweight dress to throw on. These dresses from Reformation, Free People, and Lily Pulitzer are easy to rewear on future trips and look elegant with a pair of nude or white kitten heels. Monochromatic two-piece sets that transition well from day to night are also great options for nighttime in Florida and help trim down your packing list.
The everyday bag
A trusty tote bag is a must-have on any trip, but it’ll often take up a lot of space in your carry-on. To save space, pack a roomy and versatile bag you can wear each day with any outfit, like the Loewe Compact Hammock bag or the Coach Brooklyn shoulder bag. To wear poolside, I recommend something a little bit more lightweight, like the Mango maxi tote bag or Sézane’s raffia bag.
The swimsuit
Don’t forget your swimsuit! Boat rides and pool days call for a well-made bathing suit (or two). For trunks, colorful swim shorts from Brunello Cucinelli or Lululemon will do the trick. And for a suit, we love these chic and comfortable one-pieces from Monday Swimwear and Free People.
The open-toe sandal
A sandal you can easily slip on and off by the pool and to lunch is another must-have. Anyone staying at The Boca Raton will likely be living in a pair of cute and comfortable open-toe sandals. We suggest a neutral-colored pair that will match just about everything in your suitcase.
The timeless accessories
Don’t forget a few nice accessories to help dress up your vacation fits. Think oval Celine sunglasses to wear by the pool and a sleek gold watch that pairs well with any dress or trousers you decide on. Fragrance says a lot about you—and can leave an incredible lasting impression—so we included one of our favorites from Louis Vuitton. With key notes of ginger, cedarwood, and sandalwood, the LV Lovers scent is sophisticated and seductive all at once.
