I Packed Like a Snowbird for My Winter Beach Vacation

As someone who most often dresses for Manhattan, I’m very intrigued by snowbirds—the folks who flee the northeast during the colder months to spend the season down in warmer climates. They’ve got a chunk of their wardrobe on reserve specifically for this, complete with bold patterns, beachy accessories, and vibrant but sophisticated dresses that make you question why you ever thought denim shorts were acceptable summer attire. What better inspiration for my own winter retreat down to South Florida?

Palm Beach has always been about looking the part—and its inhabitants are well aware. During my stay, I opted in on a walking tour of the renowned Worth Avenue, led by local impeccably dressed icon Rick Rose. As we weaved between historic landmarks and luxury boutiques, he shared that much of the architecture was intentionally designed to look varied, architect Addison Mizner insisting that intentional imperfections would give the street an older ambiance and mystique. It would be more chic that way.