Now that Summertime is officially upon us, I wanted to show you a list of things that every girl should have in her arsenal. I'm sure you have seen these types of articles in every women's magazine. "Summer Survival Guide" or "Get Ready for Summer." Well, here's my list:
1) A bathing suit. Not just any bathing suit. A bathing suit that actually fits properly! No one wants to be spilliing out of her top when she's trying to take a dip in the ocean. This part of Summer is always tricky. I don't know a single girl who enjoys the process of trying on a million different suits. But that's really what you have to do in order to see what works and what doesn't on your body. There are so many brands at varying price points that a cute, well fitting suit shouldn't be too hard to find.
These by Victorias Secret are colorful and girly without exposing too much.
2) Now that you have the perfect suit, it's time to go play in the sun! Just don't forget to wear sunscreen. I admit, I love getting a nice tan. When I was in high school, I never wore sunscreen which I now realize was a huge mistake. But it's never too late to correct past bad behaviors so I slather on the stuff generously and often. I personally love CopperTones Oil Free Sunscreen because it rubs into the skin quickly and I don't have to worry about it clogging my pores and causing a break out. And, even though I consistently wear sunscreen, I still manage to pull off a nice Summer glow. If you spend enough time in the sun, even wearing tons of sun protection, you will still get a bit of color. The rest you can fake with...
3) Bronzer! Bronzer is your best friend this time of year. I like to stick with matte bronzer on my face, although I like to use one with shimmer on my cheekbones for some added radiance. On the rest of my body, I have been using L'oreal's Sublime Bronze Tinted Gel for instant glowy gratification. The best part is that it washes right off in the shower. Otherwise, a good self tanner does the same job, but it lasts.
4) Easy makeup and hair are the best parts of Summer in my opinion, at least in terms of getting ready. I usually switch over to my Korres tinted moisturizer and cream products such as blush. I love dewy makeup in the Summer. A single shimmery shadow, a little bit of liner, and some water proof mascara and I'm out the door. Also, don't be afraid to use a fun, bright lipgloss. Corals are really popular this year, but pinks are always pretty too. For something more subtle, a good nude lip complements golden skin. Just don't forget SPF! As for hair, I like to put down the blow dryer and straightener as much as possible, especially on days off. I use a little bit of wave spray or texturizer to amp up my natural waves. Just do whatever feels easiest to you.
5) Bright Nail Polish. The only time of the year I feel like I can really get away with just about any color. Take your pick!
6) Lastly, Summer dressing should be effortless and fun as well. I live in dresses and sandals. There are so many options out there that it's easy to find things within your budget.
Go for color! I still wear black too, but color feels fresher (and literally cooler).
I know my list could go on and on because this is my favorite time of the year! I also want to mention hats and sunglasses, two very important Summer items. Other than that, what are your essentials?
