Every time I get out of Los Angeles and head to Palm Springs for the weekend, I always wonder why I don't do it more often. It's only a two-hour drive away, and the desert environment feels so inspiring. Of course, the weekend I happened to stay at Life House Palm Springs, the temperature was pushing 110° in the middle of the day, but I didn't let that deter my stay! I might be getting ahead of myself, but now that I survived the hottest weekend I've ever experienced, I feel like I can pack for any kind of climate.
The hotel thankfully had a pool—the main draw for any Palm Springs stay, TBH—so you could dive right in once the sun became too much. (In my case, it was after about five minutes, but I digress.) Although I only stayed for the weekend, packing multiple outfits per day was necessary because you'll shower and change at least three times in 12 hours. Here, I rounded up my must-haves pieces for a Palm Springs trip that would fit the colorful, retro vibes and help you withstand the heat.
Printed Dresses
This lightweight Dôen dress was a real winner on the trip. It didn't stick to my skin thanks to the breezy silhouette, and the buttons at the front made it versatile as a pool cover-up. The true reason why I loved it, though, was the striking print that I felt really fit in with the Palm Springs scenery and my hotel room.
Here is my exact style if you're convinced to get it for yourself.
Obsessed with the floral print and bright-red hue.
This slightly sheer, floral number will definitely turn heads in the desert.
Polka dots are experiencing a serious renaissance this summer.
Blend in with the mid-century modern style in this retro plaid halter dress.
Loving the brown-and-blue combo of this midi.
Lightweight Pieces
A (literally) hot destination like this is where linen and sheer pieces come in and save the day. I wore an Em on Holiday camp shirt, my go-to Solid & Striped bikini, and a Cou Cou skirt for a relaxing day at Life House's pool and restaurant, Minerva's. A huge tote was absolutely vital to fit my book, towel, and 10 different types of sunscreens that I brought with me.
Dip your toes into sheer dressing with this simple yet versatile cotton skirt.
Short-sleeve button-downs are always a staple in my closet. You can wear it fully open with a cute bralette or bikini top underneath when those summer temps kick in.
I like to opt for a swimsuit that I can wear as a top underneath a button-down. This timeless black one definitely fits the bill.
Shop the matching '90s High-Leg Bikini Bottoms ($50).
A semi-sheer cover-up is a fun item to bring, especially when it has chic contrast hems like this one.
Wear this from the pool to the pool bar to cool down with a much-needed drink.
This easy white pullover will get so much wear, whether you're in Palm Springs or not.
Long-sleeves are your friend if your skin easily burns, and this one is sheer and in a fun color that fits the Palm Springs aesthetic.
Versatile Sandals
Even the parking lot is photogenic when there's a convertible that serves as a cactus planter. Though you might not be doing tons of walking when it's over 100°, I brought sandals that worked with everything, from dresses and skirts to shorts and swimsuits. If you are doing a lot of walking in Palm Springs once the weather cools down, comfortable ones are even more necessary.
The Floridian in me can never resist platform flip-flops.
These lace-up sandals are so chic, no?
I recently got a pair of these slip-ons, and they are one of the best purchases I've made. They resemble water shoes, are super comfortable, and give any 'fit a sporty look.
Simple, inexpensive, and sophisticated—what's not to love?
You'll get a lot of wear out of these neutral slingback sandals.
Make the most out of the space in your bag with a pair of easy-to-pack flip-flops.
The cording on these sandals is similar to *that* Miu Miu pair, but for way less.
Shop more Palm Springs–approved pieces:
For even more Palm Springs–inspired clothing and accessories, keep shopping below for undeniable musts like sunglasses and sunscreen.
You can never wear enough white tops during summer.
Denim shorts will work with tank tops, bikini tops, camp shirts, and so much more.
The warm brown tones on these oval sunglasses just scream Palm Springs.
The eyelet details on this easy white frock give it something extra special.
The shape of this bag is so striking.
Make sure to throw a skin-baring halter top in your suitcase.
Hit the town in these heeled sandals.
Feel the breeze and cool down in a see-through crochet dress.
Flower hair clips are popping up in case you haven't noticed.
This aqua bikini will look so good with your new tan.
Wear this as a swim cover-up or as a regular dress with a stylish bag and slides.
Lean into your wild side (sorry, had to) with these statement snake-print wedges.
This gingham straw design is my new favorite summer tote.
If bold colors aren't really your thing, opt for this chocolate crochet top and matching skirt.
This pretty blue shade will stand out against the arid landscape.
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