1) I love Rimowa suitcases they are über light, roll easily and fit a lot. I try to take 2 bags maximum for short trips.
2) My trick is to pull out all of my clothes I want to bring and then go through a process of elimination and cut at least 30-40%. It's not the fastest trick, but that's the only way I can edit properly when packing for a long trip.
3) I always keep creams and hair products in small containers which saves so much room.
4) My summer getaway necessity is sunblock. My favorite being a fantastic new discovery from my dermatologist guru Renee Rouleaus, Colore Science 50SPF (UV and UVA) Powder Sunblock. It is the best sunblock in the world, seeing that it's powder it is not sticky and does not turn your face white. I just toss it in my bag and apply generously several times a day.
5) I love hats and I don't love wrinkles, so I wear them everyday in the sun. I'm partial to Maison Michele and Loro Piana Panama hats. But a hat I've been wanting to get my hands on is a multi-color wide brim hat from Dior.
6) A pair of espadrilles is a must, and the new embroidered Valentino espadrilles are so beautiful.
7) A variety of bikinis is also a must. My favorites are from a new brand called Marysia Swimwear, and of course Eres which makes the best strapless two piece and one piece bathing suits. I can never seem to have enough of them.
8) It's important to remember to also stay sun conscious from the neck down. I recommend checking out Cover Swim, the pioneers of sun-conscious beachwear. Not only are they very cool and fashionable (Anne Hathaway was snapped wearing one on her beach holiday), but they protect your body from those harmful sunrays.
9)When it comes to daywear, I love plain linen dresses, especially from Dover Street Market and practically live in them during my beach holidays.
10) Clothes that work for the beach and apres-swim are a necessity. Rosie Assoulin's white crossed back top is amazing over a bathing suit or paired later with white wide-leg trousers.
11) Rather than packing all your "It" bags, I find that bringing just one great summer tote is all you need. I am currently loving The Row's new raffia runway totes or, for a more street look, Chanel's graffiti backpack.
