When traveling to Phoenix, Arizona and the surrounding area, one must be sure to pack two major necessities: a good lotion with SPF (we like Skinceuticals and Kate Somerville because they contain zinc oxide) and your most reliable pair of flip flops (think Reef, Rainbow or Havianas).
Don’t assume that Arizona is bathing suit season year-round! Although it is typically sunny year-round, there are a few exceptions, mainly: monsoon season (roughly July till September), winter-like temperatures, and cold desert nights. Even during the boiling hot summer, the temperature inside most restaurants is kept very cool. So, ladies, always pack and carry with you a wrap or light weight sweater in which you can stay warm.
“Monsoon” season in Arizona starts in early July and goes through September. These are the months in which the state gets the majority of its rainfall. The daytime temperature will be upwards of 100 degrees and a potential rainfall can cause humidity. Now, don’t let the word “monsoon” scare you. A monsoon in Arizona is nothing like a monsoon that you would find elsewhere in the world. This just means you may have some on and off encounters with rain, wind, but also a chance to witness some beautiful lightening that illuminates the desert sky. Monsoons usually bring some serious humidity with them, so don't forget to pack the straitening iron and the anti-frizz!
We believe the best months, temperature wise, are November and December, followed by a close second of late March through May. It starts to get really hot again toward the end of May (really hot meaning temperatures of 100 and higher). January is beautiful and sunny, but can be very chilly and you may find true winter-like temperatures of 65 degrees and less, especially in the evenings. It can stay this way into mid March so pack wisely.
What does all of this mean for your suitcase?
Must packs:
- A couple of bathing suits (or hit up Everything But Water at Fashion Square Mall in Scottsdale once you arrive).
- Suntan lotion with zinc oxide.
- Bathing suit cover-up or something to throw over your suit for walking from your lodging to the pool.
- A trusty pair of flip flops or sandals.
- Nice outfits to go out to dinner in. Most restaurants or night clubs will not allow flip flops, so bring appropriate shoes as well.
- Plenty of shorts and t-shirts or tank tops.
- A sundress or two.
- Sunglasses.
- A hat.
- Slacks or a great skirt.
- Jeans.
- Aloe for after-sun care.
- A pashmina wrap, fitted blazer or cute sweater for when the weather is less than perfect.
Speaking of less than perfect; Arizona is very dry, so bring a good cream to keep your skin hydrated. Be sure to drink plenty of water. Water will do miracles for your skin and complexion; so don’t think of this as a task, but as part of your beauty regimen. We recommend carrying an Evian's Mineral Water Spray in your bag, it helps rehydrate your skin and also revives your makeup throughout the day!
Fashion and style during the day in Arizona is comfortable, cool, and casual. Light and flowy fabrics that won’t stick to your skin or add to the temperature are a smart choice.
Ladies: you can’t go wrong with a sundress, shorts/skirt and a tank or tee paired with your favorite flip flops or sandals (Havianas now come in great metallic shades that go with everything). Linen pants are comfortable for this type of weather, but remember that the lighter colors may show sweat marks. Women tend to get pretty dressed up to go out at night in Scottsdale. Be prepared to see a lot of women in dresses showing skin! Leave your flip flops at home for a night on the town. Heels or a cute pair of strappy sandals are a must. Fashionable boots, leggings, and tights always look good during the winter months. A stylish pair of jeans topped with a sexy top are always acceptable if you feel like being more casual. If dressing up isn't your thing, there are some great neighborhood places (The Vig in Phoenix, The Lodge in Scottsdale and the always popular Coach House in Scottsdale) where shorts and sandals are the norm.
Men: during the day it is typical to be seen in a pair of board shorts, golf shorts, cargo shorts or jeans (if it is not too hot). A nice t-shirt or golf shirt on top and a pair of flip flops or tennis shoes on bottom will make you fit right in! Linen pants often look great on men, either for daytime or nighttime wear. Night time wear is dressier. Most of the night clubs will not let you in if you are wearing flip flops. Beware! Many men will wear a nice pair of jeans, a button up shirt and dress shoes. Dress pants and linen pants are good alternatives to jeans. Don’t be scared to spice up your usual going out uniform! Just, PLEASE, leave your disco shirts at home.
Make sure to save space in that suitcase for some great shopping! Plenty of it is available in and around Phoenix for whatever your budget, or list, may call for.
For shopping, listen closely… head to Kierland Commons for a great pair of jeans. A store called 42 Saint has the best selection for both men and women, by far. If you aren't sure which styles suit you best, ask one of the owners for their advice!
Be sure to check out the boutiques in the Waterfront. Moody Blues has great designers like: Mike&Chris, Geren Ford, and Alexander Wang. Across the bridge is a place called The Mix which houses a few posh shops, and also a great restaurant called Canal that has runway shows while you eat! If you make it to 44th and Camelback be sure to check out Bliss Boutique and Nouvelle Armoire, which carry new designers that sell their samples. Hey, everyone loves a one of a kind!
For a good bargain try Neiman’s Last Call (think Phillip Lim dresses for as little as $100, Vena Cava tops, Alice & Olivia dresses, Prada, Derek Lam, Louboutin) and Saks Off 5th, both located at the Arizona Mills Mall. Nordstrom’s Last Chance, located on 20th St. and Camelback, may also be worth checking out, but you really have to be in the mood to dig.
Men, Be sure to check out the Clotherie located at the Biltmore. Their staff is like none other and their style is impeccable and reasonably priced. They style many of the Phoenix Suns basketball players. If you go, ask for Joey and tell him the Rolfe family sent you! He may throw in a free pair of cufflinks!
If you happen to be visiting friends in Phoenix and are looking for a great thank-you or hostess gift be sure and check out The Willows on 38th St. & Indian School for a great selection of upscale home decor or The French Bee at Indian School & 24th St. The French Bee offers European-flavored antiques, elegant gift items, one of kind artwork and unique accessories at reasonable prices. For the most amazing fresh flowers in all of Arizona, be sure and stop by Fresh Cut Romance at 40th St. & Indian School where buds are flown in from Holland, Columbia, Ecuador, New Zealand, Hawaii, Thailand and California.
