Got a last-minute invite for a quick summer getaway? Don't panic. Think ahead and start packing before you hit the beach. It helps to be prepared for any summer style emergency. And even if you know weeks ahead that you'll be heading off for a week or two of fun in the sun, it never hurts to do an edit of your vacation wardrobe.

Here are a few tips for the summer jet-set wet set:

- As soon as you know you're headed out of town, make a list, even if you're stuck in traffic and can't write it all down. Those mental notes can come in handy later when you do get a chance to dive into that stash of summer clothes and accessories in your closet.

- Pick one or two colors to base your getaway wardrobe around. White is always a great neutral that is easily combined with other colorful essentials. A pair of white jeans, white shorts, a white shift dress, a white swimsuit, a white tank top or a lightweight sweater are all basic essentials that work dressed up or down.

- Always include several swimsuits - some basic, some not-so-basic - to put in your bag if you'll be near a pool or the beach. Many suits can easily be mixed and matched with other layering pieces and coverups. Make those suits work for you.

- Pack several sarongs, large scarves or shawls for even more versatility. You can use as wraps, belts, head turbans, strapless dresses or towels. Use your imagination. The possibilities are endless.

- Go for knits. Yes, they're slinky and they pack like a dream. Roll up a few jersey dresses or tops, even a pair of wide-leg pants, and stick them into your suitcase for a wrinkle-free travel wardrobe.

- Try a little bling. Remember, you are on vacation. Don't forget to include an embroidered caftan that can double as a coverup, a chunky cuff bracelet or a pair of big hoops.

- Keep the shoes you pack on the simple side. Include one pair of sandals or flats in a neutral metallic color like gold or silver. Choose sneakers if you're going to be doing a lot of walking, and a pair of heels for dressier occasions. Jeweled thongs can be a lifesaver when you need to wear something a little more than just flip-flops.

- Sun-hats and sunglasses are a must. Two pair of sunglasses is even better. One pair of classics like aviators, and another more oversized retro-inspired style for when you want to be a little more dressed up.

- Beach bags are another essential, but try to double up on these as well. Even big names like Michael Kors, Fendi and Jimmy Choo have chic totes that can also serve as beach bags.

- No stylish beach vacation would be complete without a few beach-bound books. This summer there are some great fashionable reads to put in your tote bag. Check out Karen Quinn's latest "Holly Would Dream" (Simon & Schuster Touchstone, $14) about an Audrey-Hepburnish fashion historian who goes on a cruise and catches a thief. Another fun book to take to the beach is "Bringing Home the Birkin" by Michael Tonello (William Morrow, $25.95), which chronicles the true adventures of the author's quest for the Hermes' Birkin handbag.

A must-have book for fashionistas is the new "Sex and the City: The Movie" book by Amy Sohn (Collins, $29.95), an official companion to the blockbuster film with more than 300 full-color images and behind-the-scenes look at the movie. The book even includes photos of every outfit worn in the motion picture with designer and label credits.

- Resealable zip-top bags in all sizes. Last but certainly not least, these must-haves should be in every stylish suitcase. Fill them with wet swimsuits, damp towels, underwear, toiletries or sandy shoes. They are invaluable and will come in handy no matter where you plan to travel this summer.

Sharon Mosley is a former fashion editor of the Arkansas Gazette in Little Rock and executive director of the Fashion Editors and Reporters Association.