I sort of have a packing problem. In theory you don’t need all that much for a weekend away, it’s only two or three days after all. I always start out very organized and plan my outfits to save space by avoiding redundancy. This forces me to think of what I will need, and that’s where I go wrong. How can I possibly pack for all the potential occasions, weather, activities, meals? There so many possibilities I just can’t plan for. I don’t know where to begin, or more appropriately, I just don’t know where to stop. That’s why I am doing a serious inventory of what one actually needs for a summer weekend away… scratch that, what a slightly obsessive fashion lovin’ gal “needs” to pack for a weekend away.

While most are annoyed about the jelly shoe comeback, we have to admit we’re kind of thrilled. Jellies are pretty, comfy, the coolest texture, and are wearable in the sun, in the rain, on the beach, and pretty much everywhere else. Plus, the word “Jelly” is just so fun to say. These jelly (see, it just rolls right off the tongue!) sandals are only four bucks, and just looking at them puts a smile on our faces. Four bucks for a smile and some cute footwear? We’ll take that any day! [$4, Bath & Body Works]

If these Nike gladiator sandals were a person, they’d be the middle-school bully who beat up all the wimpy gladiator sandals from last season. They’re the brainchild of Art Center College design student Nancy and were created for Nike’s Remixed and Recut hybrid footwear line for Summer 2009. Hybrid is the perfect word to describe the sandals. They’re perfect for hitting the pavement while shopping or sightseeing, but they could transition to night with the right mini-dress. Sadly, they’re sold out. But if you love them as much as I do, you’ll keep checking Colette in hopes of scoring your pair. [Fashion Indie]

You might think summer starts when the temperature finally reaches 80 degrees Fahrenheit, your roof deck opens up, and the beaches start charging admission, but you’re wrong. Summer doesn’t actually begin until you put on a fresh pair of flip-flops. Whether they’re the cheap plastic ones from a drug store or a work-appropriate leather pair, or a fancy bejeweled pair, flip-flops are the shoes of the season. Here are 10 that will let your feet take in the fresh air and sun – just don’t forget to paint your toes. We like a bright, punchy coral color like Coral Reef by Essie.