It’s July, my friends! That means Summer is in full swing, but with longer days and shorter nights comes sun rays and sweltering heat. This is my first southern summer, and it’s definitely something to get used to. Originally from coastal Newport Beach, CA, most of my summers have been spent oceanside at a comfortable 75 degrees accompanied by a cool breeze. Here in Tennessee, it’s been at least 90 degrees almost every day for the past month. This level of heat and humidity is something foreign to me, and trying to cope has certainly been an adventure. Along this journey, I’ve come up with a list of summer essentials that I certainly would not be surviving this summer without.
Sunscreen– First and foremost, I would like to thank my close friend sunscreen for protecting my fair skin from the sun’s harmful rays. I know baking in oil is tempting, but 50-year-old old self will thank you for protecting your skin.
Dry Shampoo– My hair is thick and tends to get oily fast, and nothing keeps my hair feeling fresh quite like a spritz of dry shampoo. I’m a huge fan of Pantene Pro-V Style Series Shampoo, Dry, Sheer Volume.
Sundresses– I love a good sundress. They’re cute, they keep you cool, and they’re so easy to throw on in the morning. My go-to routine has been as follows: roll out of bed, put on a sundress, tie hair in a ponytail, and start the day! Piece of cake.
Spray Deodorant– There’s nothing wrong with regular stick deodorant, but for midday refreshing I always use spray. I can keep it in my car so it’s always around, and I can be sure it won’t melt because it’s a spray. My favorite this summer has been Dove Antiperspirant Deodorant Lavender Fresh Dry Spray.
Sunglasses– Nothing completes an outfit (and protects your eyes) like a cute pair of sunnies! I’ve picked up a few pairs at Ross throughout the summer, all for under $10, and all so cute. This is a must for my sensitive eyes in this sunny climate.
Sandals– Sandals of all kinds have been my go-to shoe. I have a few pairs of versatile flats that can be dressed up or down, and some wedge sandals for something a little fancier.
Hair Ties– It sounds pretty obvious, but I’d just like to acknowledge hair ties for being the amazing life savers that they are. I feel like we as a society take hair ties for granted, but the couple times I’ve mistakenly walked out the door without one, I’m miserable. Putting my hair up in a ponytail makes me feel 10 degrees cooler instantly. It’s magic.
Chapstick– I’m a bit obsessive about keeping my lips soft, and it’s so important in the summertime. Vaseline Lip Therapy, Pink Bubbly is my favorite right now because it comes in a little tin. No matter how hot it gets, or how many times it melts, its container leaves it easy to use.
Swimsuit– Everyone needs at least one go-to swimsuit that they feel cute and confident in. Find yours and have a relaxing day at the pool or beach!
Hat– Whether you’re a casual baseball cap kinda girl, or an over-the-top floppy hat kinda girl, find a hat you like to keep that sun off your face! Nothing ruins a good sunny day like a sunburnt nose.
I hope this list helps any of you who may be struggling to survive in the summer heat. Overall I love summertime, and I’ve found that these items help me love it just a little more. Enjoy the time off, the sunshine, and the relaxation! Remember to stay hydrated and happy! 🙂
Shedding Light 