Brian and I are heading to Big Sur this weekend—just the two of us!—and it’s a trip we’ve been looking forward to for a long time. Ever since I saw this post on Gal Meets Glam, I’ve had my heart set on one day staying at the Post Ranch Inn, and now that wish is coming true. I can’t wait!
One tricky thing about traveling is always deciding what to pack. You don’t want to pack too much, but also want to be sure you’re prepared for whatever comes your way. I always start by checking the weather a few days before we leave as well listing out our planned activities. I also always pack a swimsuit (literally always, haha)! To make packing and outfit planning simple, I use the free Cladwell app on my phone (you can read all about it here).
Get a 1-minute look at what’s in my bag and a few outfit ideas on my IGTV video, and then scroll down for all of the nitty gritty details, plus links!
THE WEATHER
It’s pretty much going to rain the whole time, haha. The good news? I love rain, I love clouds, and we are staying in an amazing room at an amazing hotel. Ever since I shared the forecast on Instagram I’ve gotten several messages from those of you who have visited Big Sur in the rain or live up there and all of you have assured me it’s still going to be great. Plus, a rainy getaway can be super romantic, so it’s not all bad that there will be rain! Consider this post a little guide to dressing for rainy weather in style.
WHAT I’M PACKING
Layering is going to be key, since it’ll be chilly and rainy. I have 11 core items I’ll rotate through while we’re there—some are part of my March Capsule, but some aren’t:
- Olive rain jacket (also similar)
- Brown sherpa coat (also similar)
- Black cashmere crewneck sweater
- Yellow balloon sleeve sweater
- Black turtleneck
- White sleeveless button down
- Black skinny jeans
- Dark wash skinny jeans
- Leopard ankle boots (and similar)
- Black mule loafers (love these too)
- Dark neutral rain boots
In addition to those core items, I’m packing these extra essentials:
- Red bikini (top / bottom) and gold sandals, because hot tubbing is a must
- White pom pom beanie (similar) and baseball cap (similar) in case the cold and rain gets the best of me
- Leopard scarf for warmth, but also as an optional accessory
- Jewelry! Specifically my Julia Earrings in Geometric Mix, Chloe Coin Necklace, Silhouette Locket from Family Print Shop and Emma Hoop Earrings in Brass Circle
THE OUTFITS
Here are a few outfit options I’ll be able to work with (though I imagine I’ll be in my bikini or my robe about 95% of the time, haha.):
Plus, can’t forget my swimsuit! As I said, IÂ always pack a swimsuit, and since we know their pool and hot tub situation is fabulous, we’ll definitely be needing swimwear. I recently snagged this red bikini at Target and it’s seriously SO GOOD. I love the fit so much I even ordered it in the cheetah print. Size-wise, I’d say it’s TTS (I got the small top and medium bottoms).
I promise to share TONS about our trip—both on Instagram and also in a recap post here on the blog. Feel free to leave any questions below about traveling to Big Sur, packing for a trip or dressing for rainy weather…
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Olive Rain Jacket:
Did you get your normal size or did you size down ?
Thanks for your timeđź’—
Olive Rain Jacket:
Did you get your normal size or did you size down ?
Thanks for your timeđź’—
My husband and I go twice a year. It’s BEAUTIFUL. I can tell you that there’s alot of stopping the car for scenic pics. I’d dress casual. More jeans and tennis shoes. Those looks are cool for dinner at a nice restaurant. Definitely not for sight seeing. If you get a chance and weather permits check out the hidden beach. It’s gorgeous.
Jealous! I live in Nor Cal but still have never stayed in Big Sur. Can I ask what jeans you’re wearing in the first pic? So cute! 🙂
They’re old straight leg jeans from J.Crew that are sold out, sadly!
Oh, darn, but thanks for letting me know!
No word robe required to explore the sublime beauty of Big Sur. All you need is layers, sturdy hiking pants and a good pair of boots. If you would like to escape from your concerns over fashion, come take a tour with us – we’ll show you the wild side to Big Sur that doesn’t care what you wear.
Ha! Well, this is a fashion blog so I do love to share my outfits here 🙂 But yes, I agree that Big Sur is so beautiful and look forward to enjoying the nature and the views. No hiking for us with all the rain, though! The hot tub is more my speed, haha.
Hope you bring tennis shoes for hiking point lobos.if you dont do the trail to mcway falls do to rain at least capture pics of the falls on highway 1 turn out.Please be sure to catch whatever views you can from Nepenthe.they have a look out whether u dine there or not.esalen pools 1 to 3am no need for bathing suit. Elephant seals are nursing and having pups piers blancas
Probably won’t be hiking due to the rain sadly!