As we head into August, I am reminded of those long hot days of summer during my childhood.
Growing up north, one had to take full advantage of the warm weather while it lasted, so we would spend our days at the nearest lake or jump from one neighbor’s pool to the next. Anything to be around water.
As an adult, I realized my summer goals remain the same but there is one exception, comfort!
Gone are the days of scorched skin, uncomfortable chairs, bug bites, and green hair.
Yeah, I said it, green hair, way too many times and long before it was ever cool. We might not be able to rid ourselves of these annoyances completely but we certainly can make it more tolerable.
My top recommendations for anyone near a pool, or lake, or lucky enough to be on the beach. Carpe Diem my friends, Carpe Diem.
The Beach Bundle by Sunflow $296 getsunflow.com
This is the Rolls Royce of lounge chairs. Lightweight compact design engineered for long days relaxing by the water. The sunshade provides 98% protection from the sun’s rays and safety tucks behind the chair. Drink holder that adjusts to any drink size and collapses when not in use. An attachable dry bag keeps valuables dry safe and sand-free. Available in 9 different colors and patterns. Tan lines are not included.
IGK Blocked- Water-Resistant Hair Shield $29 igkhair.com
Modeled after waterproof mascara, this conditioner consistently forms a shield to protect hair from chlorine, sweat, and UV rays. Just comb it through wet or dry hair, pull hair into a ponytail if you wish, and voila. No more sun or water-damaged hair. Shampoo hair when you are ready to remove it.
Supergoop Unseen Sunscreen $34 supergoop.com
Made with minerals and antioxidants, this lightweight formula will leave your skin silky smooth, sans the white chalky effect. Oil-free broad-spectrum SPF40 protection can also be used as a makeup primer. Either way, if you have been disappointed with the sunscreens of the past, soon you will be obsessed. This product is a game-changer.
“Do Not Disturb” Wide Brim Straw Hat $49.99 PeaCreationsBoutique Etsy.com
Why do you ask? Why not. This is not about sun protection or hair preservation. This is all about style. At a fraction of the price no less. Yet, they are still hand-made and embroidered straw hats. Talk about making a statement?! Yes, please.
FunBoy “Red Lips” Pool Float $79 revolve.com
If you have not heard of FunBoy and you live in Arizona, I forgive you. Otherwise, WTH?! You are totally missing out! In fact, these are such hot commodities, their very own website is almost always sold out. Well known as a celeb Instagram favorite for their vibrant colors and inflatable fun shapes. Keep them on your summer radar.
Celebrating Woman Wednesday
Here are two of my favorite waterside businesses. Both are owned and operated by women of course.
Kitty & Vibe Swimwear $38-$95 kittyandvibe.com
Designed to fit all shapes and sizes with its unique sizing system. Most companies just measure only hip size, Kitty & Vibe takes it one step further by measuring hip and bum size. This ensures the right fit for your backside. Say goodbye to showing off more of your assets than planned for and also the dreaded saggy bottom. Finally, a bikini that not only looks good but is actually comfortable too.
Black Girl Sunscreen SPF 30 $18.99 blackgirlsunscreen.com
While living in Miami, this founder was growing tired of her blotchy makeup and the white residue that sunscreens left behind. One thing she wanted to make clear was that black women needed sunscreen too. There is a big misconception that women with dark skin are somehow immune to sun damage and skin cancer. This just isn’t true. Thus began the need to create her own all-natural non-white residue sunscreen brand for melanin women. This fast-growing company shows no signs of stopping with the hopes of being available globally one day, here in the U.S. you can find it at Target stores nationwide.
I hope these obsessions help you tolerate the hot days of summer. I’d love for you to share these obsessions by using the social buttons below or by copying the link.
