Packing Light, Style Big: Your Durango Vacation Wardrobe
Introducing the July Lively Lady: Christina Rinderle!
Meet Christina!
Christina moved to Durango in the late '90s to work as a botanist and researcher—and quickly fell in love. The trails, open spaces, vibrant downtown, and the warm, welcoming community made it easy to call this place home. To supplement her income back then, she worked at Carver’s, where Christina serendipitously met the most incredible group of girlfriends — who are still her dearest friends more than 25 years later — which solidified her decision to establish roots here. Christina’s career path shifted from science to redevelopment, where she worked as an office and project manager on live/work renovations in the heart of downtown. That’s where she discovered a passion for in-fill projects, green building, and smart reuse of space. Those interests led her into public service, and Christina was honored to serve eight years on Durango City Council, including two terms as Mayor. October of 2025 marks 10 years of Christina owning Durango Land and Homes, which she often describes as a community service organization that just happens to sell real estate. She enjoys helping to connect people with their perfect home or workspace, and donating a portion of every sale to local nonprofits and community causes.
Christina’s longtime partner in life and business passed away unexpectedly in late 2022. While the loss has been profound, she is incredibly grateful for her two stepsons, Dylan and Corbin, who continue to bring joy and meaning to her life. It’s a powerful reminder to cherish the time we have — and how lucky we are to share it in such a beautiful place.
Lively brand-wise — Christina loves the timeless, everyday staples like AG jeans and Söfft shoes, but also appreciates lively’s one-of-a-kind statement pieces that make any occasion feel special. Christina says that she loves shopping at lively because, “Johnna and her team create such a welcoming, low-pressure environment the moment you walk in. They have an incredible eye for what works together and make the whole process fun, easy, and inspiring. It’s one of those rare places where you always walk out feeling more like yourself.”
You can shop Christina’s lively look below.
Photos by Niki Bryant Photography.
Shop the Look:
Planning a trip to Durango? Whether you’re hiking through the San Juans, sipping cocktails on a patio downtown, or exploring local boutiques (especially the cutest one on Main lol), packing smart is key. In this month’s lively lookout, we’re sharing our go-to tips for traveling light without sacrificing style. Think versatile layers, mix-and-match staples, and accessories that do double duty — because your suitcase should be as effortlessly cool as your mountain-town itinerary. Let’s pack with a purpose and arrive in style!
An Everyday Hoop
When you’e exploring Durango — whether hiking around Purgatory, wandering the historic downtown, or simply relaxing at the Balcony — you want a piece of jewelry that’s dependable, stylish, and totally low stress. Michelle McDowell’s hoops are made for sensitive ears and they’re inexpensive so if you lose one hiking around — no biggie! An everyday hoop like these can help you transition from hiking to happy hour effortlessly.
A Versatile Dress
A versatile dress is a must-pack item for any summer trip to Durango — it’s the ultimate blend of comfort, style, and practicality. Whether you are throwing her on over a swimsuit at Lake Nighthorse or sipping local brews at Ska, a lightweight dress can you take from adventure to evening with zero outfit changes. The mountain weather shifts throughout the day, so a breathable fabric and an easy silhouette let you layer up and down as needed. Plus, a dress packs light, takes up minimal space in a suitcase, and keeps you feeling put-together even after a long day in the sun. One piece, endless opportunities — just what Durango calls for.
A Neutral Sweater or Jacket
Speaking of the mountain weather shifting, a neutral sweater or jacket is also a must when it comes to packing your suitcase for your Durango vacation. Even in the heart of summer, Durango’s mountain air can bring chilly morning and nights, and even surprise rain showers. A neutral tone means it pairs effortlessly with anything in your suitcase, keeping your outfits stylish and cohesive without overpacking. Light, functional, and endlessly wearable — a go-to layer is your best friend in Colorado’s ever-changing summer weather.
A Moisturizing Lotion
Not a clothing item or accessory, but definitely a necessity! With the high-altitude sun and dry mountain air, your skin can dehydrate quickly — even if you’re just exploring downtown. So a moisturizing lotion is definitely a must-have in your suitcase for visiting Durango! Los Poblanos is a great brand to use. Developed and tested in New Mexico’s arid high desert, the lotion is ideal for everyday use in any climate and doesn’t leave you feeling greasy.
A Stylish & Comfortable Sneaker
A stylish and comfortable sneaker is the ultimate shoe to pack for your Durango vacation. With so much to explore — from walking Main Avenue to brewery hopping to strolling the River Trail — a supportive sneaker keeps you comfy all day without sacrificing style. Choose a pair that pairs well with both activewear and casual dresses, so you’re ready for wherever the day takes you. In a town where adventure meets laid-back charm, the right sneaker that lets you do it all — without the blisters.
A Denim or Cargo Short
Denim or cargo shorts are a summer suitcase essential for any trip to Durango. They’re durable enough for outdoor adventures like hiking or biking, yet casual and cute for strolling through local shops or grabbing lunch downtown. With roomy pockets (especially on cargo styles) and a classic fit, they’re practical and versatile — easy to pair with tanks, tees, or a lightweight sweater when temps dip in the evening. Whether you’re chasing waterfalls or sipping coffee at one of our many local coffee shops, these styles of shorts keep you comfy, cool and ready for it all!
Fashionable Sunglasses
Fashionable sunglasses are a non-negotiable in your suitcase when heading to Durango. With 300+ days of sunshine a year and high-altitude rays that hit stronger than you’d expect, protecting your eyes is a must and looking good while doing it is a bonus. Z SUPPLY sunglasses check every box: they’re polarized enough to protect your eyes, stylish enough to elevate any outfit, and affordable enough that you won’t stress if they take a tumble on the trail. From mountain views to downtown patios, they’re the perfect mix of fashion and function for every Durango adventure.
A Cute Trucker Hat
A cute trucker is the perfect addition to your suitcase for a summer getaway to Durango. With plenty of sunshine and endless outdoor activities, you’ll want something to shield your face while keeping your look effortlessly cool. Whether you’re hiking Engineer Mountain, floating the Animas River, or just enjoying downtown, a trucker hat adds personality to your outfit while keeping the sun off your face. Plus, it’s lightweight, easy to pack, and hides any windblown or post-adventure hair. Functional, fun and full of mountain-town vibes — it’s a Durango essential.
A Swim/Athletic Dress
A swim dress that doubles as an athletic dress is the ultimate space-saving staple that needs to be in your suitcase. Whether you’re paddle boarding, hiking, rafting, or heading to lunch at Switchback, this multitasking piece lets you do it all — no outfit change required. Quick-drying, comfy, and stylish, it’s perfect for active days that blend water and adventure. Plus, it keeps your packing light without sacrificing function or fashion. In a town where your day can take you from trail to town to splash zone, this dress style is your go-to MVP!
A Cute & Functional Bag
A cute and functional bag is a must-have for your Durango travels. With days full of exploring — from farmers markets and trailheads to downtown shopping and happy hour — you’ll want a bag that can keep up. Look for something lightweight yet roomy enough to hold your essentials while still complimenting your outfits. Bonus points for a hands-free options like a crossbody or backpack style. In Durango, it’s all about blending style with practicality and the right bag lets you do both effortlessly.
A Basic Top
Simple, breathable, and endlessly versatile, a basic shirt is a suitcase essential. Perfect for layering on cool mountain mornings, pairing with shorts for daytime adventures, or dressing up a skirt for a dinner downtown. The high-altitude sun and active days call for comfort and a well-fitting top delivers just that without sacrificing style. Easy to pack, easy to wear, and easy to rewear — it’s the kind of piece you’ll reach for every day in Durango.