Every year, seniors and sophomores pack for Cartagena in November. From breezy beachwear to elegant evening looks, students embrace the chance to showcase their unique taste while enjoying the vibrant culture and warm weather of Cartagena.

Balancing comfort and style can be challenging, especially in Cartagena, with its warm weather and endless nights of dancing. This is where finding the perfect outfits becomes essential.

“I usually pack sneakers or some very comfortable sandals. I make sure that if I wear dresses, they aren’t too long to the point where I can’t move around or too short that I can’t bend down.” Veronica Urdaneta, 12th grader, said.

For nights out in the city and nightclubs, most girls gravitate toward a mix of short dresses, skirts, or shorts paired with crop tops. This year, dark colors with sparkly fabrics stole the spotlight, adding a touch of glam to their outfits.

“The vibe I was aiming for was comfort but also style. I wanted clothes that popped out from the rest, although mostly they were dark colors that had some type of twist to them. Some had sparkles and metallic accents, and some had a pop of color.” Mariana Galindo, 12th grader, said.

Some of the events that take place in San Andrés and Cartagena call for more formal attire, such as the “White Night” in San Andrés, and “Bahia” night in Cartagena. Featuring long dresses and button-up shirts. This outfit choice is among the most anticipated, as it’s the perfect opportunity for taking pictures.

“My outfit was a long beachy dress with fringes. It was pretty transparent and, had cutouts on the abdomen. I’m going to wear a simple yet elegant necklace and an arm cuff to elevate it. As well, the earrings are going to be simple so that what stands out the most is the dress,” Juana Molina, senior , said.

For boys, the best clothes to pack are shirts and shorts made from breathable materials. Light colors like white, beige, and blue are go-to choices for many outfits, offering a fresh and stylish look for warm weather.

“I think they should wear linen shirts, shorts obviously, or like linen pants. Polos are also an excellent choice,” Veronica Urdaneta, senior,said

When it comes to swimwear, bikinis and stylish one-pieces are must-haves. Students often turn to Colombian brands for trendy and unique options, that also promote local businesses.

“ I recommend Wild and Pacific, Muar, Alma Mia, Agua Bendita, Entre Agua, Agua Coco, Benedictions, BoaMar, Touché, aguacoco, MerMer, Mukai, Lonarc, Therelika,” Molina, said.

Ultimately, packing for Cartagena is about more than just aesthetics—it’s about feeling confident, having a good time and creating memories.

“My key tips would be to pack clothes you feel confident in, can dance all night in, use light makeup, and don’t forget to accessorize,” Urdaneta, said.