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For the past month or so, I’ve been gradually accumulating items for my summer wardrobe. I’m doing a bit of everything this summer: going home to California, traveling for a few weeks, and spending some time working in Tuscaloosa. That being said, I’ve been in need of a little bit of everything. These are some of the things I’ve deemed my “summer essentials.”
1. Sunscreen
I have been on the hunt for an SPF that won’t make me break out, feel super heavy on my skin, or leave a white cast that makes me look paler than I already am. I’ve tried out a few brands and my three favorites are Curology, Shiseido, and First Aid Beauty. I’ve always been a Curology fan, and their new sunscreen has me impressed – and it’s sold at Target! Shiseido’s sunscreen is super light, buttery soft, and has a gentle smell. It’s a little on the pricier side, but definitely worth it. First Aid Beauty is one of my go-to skincare brands; their stuff never makes me break out and accommodates my sensitive skin super well. Their sunscreen is the one I wear almost every day.
2. Sunglasses
A good pair of sunglasses is essential for a summer wardrobe. Protect your eyes and look cute? Yes, please! I’ve always been a fan of Warby Parker’s glasses, but this summer’s sunglasses collection is so cute! They have so many unique frames in a variety of colors, and the quality is always impeccable. I’ve also really been loving this pair of Ray Bans recently – brown has become a staple in my closet, so these glasses are a great neutral.
3. Jean Shorts
I don’t know about you, but I’ve always struggled to find a good pair of jean shorts. They’re always too short in the wrong places, loose where they’re supposed to be snug, or just plain uncomfortable. But I found two great pairs that will be featured in many of my outfits this summer. The first pair is from Zara – they’re perfect cuffed or uncuffed if you want them a little longer. The fabric is pretty stretchy, and I love how adaptable they are. The second pair is from Madewell (another one of my favorite brands) and has such a fun pocket detail on the front, making them super unique. The fabric is also super soft and stretchy, so I know they’ll last me a long time.
4. Exercise Dress
To be completely honest, I was pretty apprehensive about exercise dresses – until I got one. They’re so perfect to wear on a walk when you’re breaking a sweat, out to lunch out with friends, or even styled up for a summer date night. My favorite one is Set Active’s: it’s comfy, lightweight, and comes in such cute colors. Just make sure to snag one before they sell out! One brand that surprised me is Abercrombie. I recently ordered one of their exercise dresses and I’ve been loving it! It’s a super plain style, which makes it easy to style up or down depending on the occasion. Finally, Girlfriend Collective is a great sustainable activewear brand that has super inclusive sizes and styling!
5. Comfy and Cool Sneakers
I’ve always been a sneaker girl – even in the summer I can barely manage to force myself into an open-toed shoe. So, I have an extensive sneakers collection that I can dress up or dress down. My favorites right now are Reeboks; their styles are so classic and simple, just the perfect elevated white sneaker. I’ve also been into New Balances recently. They’re so comfortable and come in so many different styles and colors. Hokas are a great alternative if you prefer athletic sneakers for day-to-day things – they also come in the most fun and vibrant colors.
I am super pumped for my summer break – it’s been long overdue – and I can’t wait to take on the heat with some amazing products! Happy summer and happy shopping!