When we think of summer, we tend to stray towards the fantastic: lazy beach days, lemonade by the pool, opting for flip-flops instead of boots, and having a bronzed look. However, what we tend to forget is the humidity, the harsh effects of the sun, and the appropriate summer wear from head to toe. Our mission? To keep everything light and comfortable, so we can beat the heat, but still enjoy this amazing season!

Hair

The heat can really dry out your hair and humidity can cause us to become frizz balls. It all starts with your foundation: shampoo and conditioner. If you have fine hair, pick a volumizing duo that can thicken your locks. For all hair types, a moisturizing conditioner is important. Locking in as much moisture as possible, especially in the summer, is crucial to the life of your hair. It keeps it feeling soft and staying healthy. Try the Alterna Bamboo Smooth Anti-Frizz Shampoo and Conditioner. For some more tips, pop over to our Summer Beach Wavey Hair article.

Face & Body

The first and most important part of your summer beauty routine is skincare. You know what goes great with a beautiful lipstick? Healthy and glowing skin. The unrelenting heat is something to be expected of summer. Invest in moisturizing products that will hydrate your skin and keep it nourished. Try the Albolene Moisturizing Cleanser ($9, drugstore.com). It’s unscented and great for sensitive skin.

Sunscreen is a must. Besides skin cancer prevention, it can double as your moisturizer and specific products can keep your skin youthful. One of our favorites is the Clarins 50+ SPF Sunscreen For Face Wrinkle Control Cream ($30, sephora.com). It’s lightweight and doesn’t have that odd sunscreen smell. Reapply your sunscreen every few hours to ensure you’re completely protected. The same goes for your body – we recommend the Avene Hydrance Optimale SPF 25 Hydrating Cream ($36, drugstore.com).

Makeup

Foundations tend to be too thick for the summer months, as can concealer, so opt for a great tinted moisturizer to give yourself some coverage, but keep your face oil-free. Physician’s Formula has a great one: the Organic Wear 100% Natural Origin Tinted Moisturizer Light to Natural Organics ($6, walgreens.com).

For your eyes, go for something shimmery and bronzed, like the NARS Duo Eyeshadow in Balthazar ($33, narscosmetics.com). The pop of color will brighten your eyes. Sweep the Maybelline Fit Me Blush in Light Rose ($5, target.com) onto the apples of your cheeks. Finish the look off by curling your lashes and applying a waterproof mascara, in case you have a case of the swears, which, face it, we all do. Check out our Neutral Makeup Face article for some extra tips!

Fashion

Keep it simple and comfortable, much like our picks for the Airplane Fashion article. Dresses are absolutely a huge staple piece in the summer – they’re quick to slide on and there are so many different materials and styles to choose from. There’s The Limited Sweetheart Dot Strapless Dress ($63, the limited.com). It’s bit on the dressy side, so don this at a great outdoor BBQ.

For something during the day or an outing, the Express Belted Striped Tube Dress ($70, express.com) is a sassy choice. If you’re just running out, taking the kids to the park, or meeting some girls for lunch, the Mossimo Women’s Gathered Bust Maxi Dress in Seaweed/Black ($25, target.com) will have you standing out and staying comfy at the same time.

Don’t forget sandals! Here are some fun choices: Ecote Russel Covered Toe Sandal ($39, urbanoutfitters.com), Fioni Kassidy Huarache Sandal ($23, payless.com), and the Forever 21 Cone Studded Sandals ($12.50, forever21.com).

Enjoy looking summery this summer!