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Hi.

Welcome to Bumblemom. As my name suggestions, I’m bumbling along as best I can as I navigate a new culture, kids, and style.

Fiji Looks

Fiji Looks

Fiji was such an amazing trip, and I thoroughly embraced the laid-back vacation style while playing with the kids and lounging around doing not much of anything for five nights and six days.

Here’s what I packed:

  • Grey t-shirt

  • Green and white striped t-shirt

  • Beige tank top

  • Embroidered tunic

  • Jean shorts

  • Light blue shorts

  • White linen pants

  • Floral jumpsuit

  • Black bikini

  • White crochet one piece

  • Navy one piece

  • White crochet cover up

  • Birkenstocks

  • Gold sandals

  • Floppy wide brimmed hat

  • Baseball cap

  • Two workout outfits

  • Pyjamas

  • Underthings

  • Toiletries

I packed all of my clothes into one half of my medium sized Tumi suitcase, leaving the other side for toiletries and extra games and activities for the kids.

I didn’t pack a lot, but I got tons of wear out of each piece in my suitcase so I would have options. I always get nervous thinking that I’m packing too many casual items, then find myself at a nice dinner each evening, or vice versa: too many nicer pieces and nothing casual for the day. I worked out several ways to wear each piece, and some of my favorite combos are below:

Outfit 1

Embroidered Tunic: This is an older Johnny Was tunic from the Biya collection. It is loose, airy, and can be worn either to the pool or dressed up for a dinner overlooking the ocean. I’ve linked a similar style that I think is gorgeous.

Jean Shorts: I mean, these are a closet staple, right? I’m particularly fond of these shorts because I can roll them up or keep them longer for more versatility.

Joie Sandals: Neutral sandals with just enough shimmer and shine to make them stand out are perfect for elevating an outfit. I love these sandals, but I found I needed to size up on Joies. Unfortunately, this color combo isn’t available in the Sable style anymore, but it is available in the Nice style, which I’ve linked.

Floppy Hat: I think I’ve had this floppy hat since 2004, and it is still going strong! It squishes up into each and every suitcase and comes out looking fantastic. I’ve linked a similar version here.

Outfit 2

Floral Jumpsuit: This was such a find on sale at Forever New. I have such a hard time finding a jumpsuit that fits and doesn’t make me look huge and dumpy in the hips. The floral pattern balances me well, and the adjustable straps mean I’m able to get a pretty good fit up top. Be forewarned, this jumpsuit requires “chicken cutlets” to keep my girls under control. There is no padding up top, so I’d recommend nipple covers at a minimum.

Grey T-shirt: A simple grey linen t-shirt from J. Crew tones down the floral pattern for a more casual take on the jumpsuit. Keeping the knot high makes my legs look like they go on for DAYS.

Birkenstocks: I feel that Birkenstocks are as polarising as politics: either you love them, or hate them. I, for one, love how comfortable they are and how I can wear them all day and my feet never ache. My Gizeh sandals are in a wonderful gunmetal color that goes with so many items in my wardrobe.

Floppy Hat: (similar version linked)

Outfit 3

Navy One Piece: Every beach trips necessitates as least one new swimsuit, right? (Side note - Swim suits are commonly referred to as “togs” in New Zealand.) I picked up this wonderful Sea Level Australia number at a store in Newmarket called Hot Body. They had a huge selection at a variety of price points. It’s the only place I’ve found in Auckland that carries swimsuits year round.

White Cover Up: I’ve had this Tommy Bahama cover up for a few years, and it’s simple, classic design never goes out of style. I love the lace up detail in the front. A similar version is linked.

Black & White Sunglasses: Oh my trusty Preen sunglasses! I wish I could find more colors in this style because I love them so much. I’ve linked a similar version here as they sunnies haven’t been around in years.

Merino Obsession

Merino Obsession

First Jumper

First Jumper