(The Shopping List)

Let These Las Vegas-Ready Looks Inspire Your Next Trip To Sin City

Chic ideas for concerts, pool lounging, and beyond.

Updated: Feb. 20, 2024

Originally Published: Feb. 11, 2023

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After tuning in to Usher’s Tiny Desk Concert last summer I knew his Las Vegas residency was in my future. It would be part belated birthday present (courtesy of my mother) part family vacation, as we invited my aunts to tag along. Once we set a date and booked our flights and hotels, I decided that the finer details of our adventure were a problem for 2023 me. It was her job to figure out what to pack for the long weekend.

As we settle into February, I realize that I am 2023 me, and it’s crunch time. We touch down in Sin City (for the first time ever) in less than a month and in that time I need to sort out a fresh nail set, appropriate protective hairstyle, and outfits. For the most part, I plan to stick to what I already have in my wardrobe but am allowing myself to splurge on a few pieces as I assemble my going-out looks.

The Main Event

My typical concert uniform consists of a crop top, comfy pants, and sneakers but this time, I’m going all out. It is Usher, after all! Despite being dressed up, comfort is absolutely key. Kitten heels and an easy dress anchor the outfit.

Hanifa

Soraya Mini

$269

I’ve had my eye on this dress for years now, and I’m hyped to finally bring it into my wardrobe. The comfy knit material balances the sexy undone buttons and body-hugging silhouette so I can dance, scream, and sing to my heart’s content.

Luv AJ

Marbella Hoops

$55

I like to keep my earscape simple and stick to graduated gold hoops, always starting with a small to medium-sized pair in my first set of lobe piercings.

Only Made

Rowe Mini Bag

$395

This bag fits all of my essentials, and then some, but is still the perfect size to get into the venue without issue.

BCBG Maxazria

Favari Cushion Strap Kitten Heel Sandal

$209

$125

I bought these for a wedding I’m going to be in later this year but this will be a good test drive.

Dinner & Drinks

Aside from seeing Usher, the only major activity I have in mind is dressing up and going to the buffet. Keeping it cute but comfy as I eat to my heart’s content is once again key, balancing a more casual top and bottom with stand-out accessories.

Nike

High-Rise Woven Cargo Pants

$80

I bought these after I spotted them in my friend and Hung Up writer, Hunter Harris’s gift guide back in November. They’ve been a constant in my wardrobe ever since, taking me from errands to parties and everywhere in between.

My go-to purse! A spacious statement piece, perfect to liven up this all-black ensemble. (FYI: This is almost sold out, but you can also find limited stock here and here.)

Thong heels are such an easy way to elevate otherwise casual looks. I love the sculptural, bamboo-like element on the heel.

Poolside

I don’t know how much time I’ll actually be in the water but I definitely plan to spend some time by the pool, reading and working on my tan before we return to the probably still frigid East Coast.

Gap

100% Organic Cotton Big Shirt

$60

A big button-down shirt can be many things, including a coverup!

H&M

Bandeau Swimsuit

$35

I love the bright blue and the cutout detail on this one-piece. It’s a cute departure from my usual high-cut, scoop-back, American Apparel number.

Zenni Optical

Rectangle Glasses

$25

My tried-and-true (but also on trend) prescription sunglasses.

Baggu

Nylon Shoulder Bag

$54

I bought this bag for work but I also plan to use it as my personal item on the plane. It’s roomy enough to carry snacks, water, and a book or two — and the nylon material makes it splash-friendly.

This article was originally published on Feb. 11, 2023