Countdown to Island Vacation

March 15: Start stockpiling SPF, sandals, and beachwear.

March 16: Closet raid proves fruitless (apparently, board shorts were never cool). Thank goodness for Mott 50, a clothing line that guarantees protection from UVB (burning) and UVA (wrinkles, skin cancer) rays with innovative, breathable fabrics.

March 17: Pick up breezy beaded tunics, bold maxidresses, and classic wide-brim hats. Zipper pockets add a touch of function to fitted windbreakers; soft bamboo tees are cut long for comfort.

March 19: Learn founders/longtime pals Monique Moore and Anne Botica Reilly (a Winnetka native) donate part of their proceeds to skin cancer research. Swoon.

March 28: Arrive home, fair and wrinkle free. Pals think Facebook snapshots are Photoshopped (suckers). Scoop up cotton-sateen infinity scarves and work-friendly shirtdresses to carry you through spring.

It’s a good day, sunshine.

Available at Neapolitan, 715 Elm Street, at Arbor Vitae Road, Winnetka (847-441-7784 or neapolitanonline.com); online at mott50.com, $35-$145.

Photo: David X. Prutting / Courtesy of Mott 50