I was a summer baby, born in July.  It must have been the alignment in the stars because I have an innate pull toward the summer months.  As the weather begins to warm and vacations are in the last stages of planning, I am beginning to feel my favorite time of year creeping up.  Here are my Top 5 Summer Staples:

1. I always wear SPF 30 on my face.  Mineral versions like this Peter Thomas Roth powder with SPF 30 are a great alternative to heavy sunblock creams that can cause breakouts.  I used to use these sunblock creams, but after applying makeup it proved too many layers for the summer heat.  Now, I just brush this on in the morning and throw it in my purse for touch-ups as necessary!

Peter Thomas Roth Mineral Powder SPF 30

2. Chlorine can damage your hair, skin, and bathing suit.  Kiehl’s makes the best product — Swimmer’s Cleansing Rinse for your hair and body.  It’s gentle enough to use on your swimsuit, too!  It neutralizes the chemical and keeps your hair from turning green, skin from drying out, and your favorite suit from deteriorating!  If you spend your summers in the swimming pool, this is a must have. 

All-Sport Swimmer's Cleansing Rinse for Hair and Body

3. Everyone is in search for the easiest way to get that tousled, beachy wave look without looking like a sloppy mess.  I use a 1 ½” barrel curling iron and wrap 2” sections (or larger if I am in a rush) to create big, loose waves. Then I flip my head over, shake it out, finger comb, and finish off with this a few sprays Frederic Fekkai’s amazing Beach Waves Spray. It has an amazing smell, seals/protects hair from the sun, and gives you that California surfer girl look all day.

Frederic Fekkai Beach Waves

4. I am dying to get a hot new bathing suit this summer.  I’m really want to get a plunging v-neck like this halter one-piece by Carmen Marc Valvo. While it’s still very sexy and on trend, no need to worry about getting a bunch of funky tan lines across my midsection.  This suit exudes confidence and personal style — I can already envision myself cocktailing by the pool!

Carmen Marc Valvo Halter One-Piece

5. Lastly, I love this silk coverup from Diane von Furstenberg. Maxi-coverups were hot this season on the runways, and make it easy to go straight from lounging to lunch or dinner. This resort piece is hot, and the lioness in me can’t resist the leopard-print and embellishments!  If you’re not as bold, try something more subdued (but still sultry) like this tunic from Calvin Klein.

Diane von Furstenberg Leopard-Print Silk Coverup