Living in the Midwest, I never really feel like I have time to prepare for summer. The weather tends to go straight from blustery cold to scorching hot, with maybe a few scant springy days in between. Warmer temps always seem to sneak up on me, which means my summer shopping is usually done in a rush right before a trip or on the first day I realize it’s too hot for jeans. Last-minute shopping inevitably leads to forgetting something, so I usually spend the rest of the summer realizing at random times that I’m missing this and that.
This summer, however, is going to be different. Between all the weddings, summer hobbies, friend hangs, and trips filling up my calendar, the last thing I want to stress about is running low on SPF or realizing on the way out the door that my favorite sandals from last year have seen better days. Thankfully, I thought ahead this season and made a list of all the summer essentials I could possibly need. You bet I’m prepared for every backyard barbecue, beach or pool day, patio happy hour, and every situation in between.
From summertime fashion staples to handy outdoor accessories that’ll help you make the most of the gorgeous weather, I thought of everything. Consider this your ultimate summer shopping list:
Summer Beauty Essentials
There’s no doubt your beauty routine changes a bit once warm weather rolls around. We suddenly have to cover our entire bodies in SPF all day long and address awkward problems like boob sweat and thigh chafe. And worst of all, many of us will inevitably have to deal with the aftermath of accidentally getting too much sun. Here’s what you need to get through it all:
As the days get hotter, swap out your usual foundation for a tinted moisturizer that pulls double duty as sun protection. This skin tint from clean beauty brand ILIA provides mineral-derived SPF 40, plus hydrating ingredients like hyaluronic acid and squalene. It offers light coverage and a dewy finish—like your real skin but better.
Tis the season to sweat off all your makeup as soon as you step outside. Grab a bottle of this hydrating, ultra-fine setting spray to lock makeup in place—it’s my go-to for summer weddings and warm-weather outings when I want my makeup to last all day.
Sweating more during the summer can quickly lead to oily, greasy-looking roots. If you want to stretch out the time between wash days (while still keeping your hair fresh), a good dry shampoo is a must. This editor-loved option quickly absorbs oil, dirt and sweat, without leaving an annoying residue.
A fun pop of color on your nails is the perfect finishing touch for any summer outfit. This creamy, matcha-inspired shade is a little bit unexpected but so perfect for warmer weather.
Fig scents are the latest fragrance trend we can’t get enough of, and with one sniff of this hair and body mist, you’ll understand why. With notes of grapefruit blossom, matcha, and salted fig, it smells like summer in a bottle.
This sunscreen from Supergoop is massively popular for a reason. It doubles as a primer under makeup and provides SPF 50 protection without the oily residue or chalky-white finish.
This hydrating sunscreen mist has a permanent spot in my beach bag every summer. Designed for topping up your SPF throughout the day, it goes on clear, dries quickly, and even helps set your makeup. And thanks to the watermelon extract on the ingredient list, it smells way better than your typical sunscreen.
Formulated for melanated skin, this sunscreen goes on sheer and doubles as a moisturizer.
Aquaphor is a go-to for fending off dry, chapped lips, and this version offers protection from the sun, too. Grab a couple of these lip balms to toss in your purse or beach bag, so you can keep your lips glossy and protected this summer.
Grab a bottle of this for those inevitable times when you forget to reapply your SPF. It helps soothe and rehydrate skin after sun exposure, and the spray nozzle makes it way easier to apply than regular aloe gel.
For anyone who deals with razor burn and ingrown hairs post-shaving, this product is going to be a life saver this summer. Glide it onto your bikini line, underarms, or any other area to soothe and prevent irritation.
Between sweating at the gym and laying out at the pool, summer body acne is an unfortunate reality, but this mist makes it a thing of the past.
If you ever deal with your thighs chafing together while wearing shorts or dresses, you’re going to want this portable balm stick in your summer beauty arsenal. It glides on and creates a friction-free barrier that prevents chafe, irritation, and even blisters (no need to break in those new sandals).
Moisturizing is obviously key to recovering from too much sun, but nothing feels better than running an ice roller over sunburnt skin.
Warm-Weather Accessories
No matter what you have planned this summer, you’ll want to be well-equipped in both function and style. This season is the time to play around with fun pops of color, statement-making accessories, and breezy outfit staples. You’ll be reaching for these pieces from now through the end of August:
Everyone needs a good straw tote for trips to the beach and farmers market this summer. I love that this J.Crew option is structured enough to stand up on its own and easy to dress up or down depending on where you’re headed.
Wear it as a headscarf, a belt, a bag accessory, or even as a makeshift top—this oversized scarf is so versatile.
This aviator style is shaping up to be THE sunglasses shape of summer. Swap out your usual pair for this chunky style for an easy statement-making accessory moment.
A basic white tank is a staple of any summer capsule wardrobe. Wear it with shorts or a maxi skirt for an effortless outfit or layer it under a cardigan or button-up on chilly nights.
Swapping out your phone case is an easy (and affordable) way to switch things up for the season. I’m personally eyeing this adorable blue polka dot case to give my phone a fresh look for summer.
Or you could add even more personality with a cute beaded phone chain. This colorful option from Anthropologie is peak girlhood vibes.
Jelly shoes are so back. These nostalgic flats are such a fun way to add a pop of color to any summer outfit.
These pull-on linen shorts are the breezy, comfortable bottoms you’ll reach for again and again this summer.
Call it coastal grandma or fisherman core—either way, seaside-inspired accessories are having a moment. This embroidered lobster keychain is such a fun way to add a coastal touch to a set of keys or your favorite summer bag.
Claw clips are the unsung heroes of sweltering summer days when you thought wearing your hair down was a good idea.
This straw bucket hat will keep the sun off your face while doubling as a fun statement accessory.
Wellness Routine Upgrades
Between long weekends away and plenty of patio happy hours, staying healthy during the summer can feel like a challenge. But with a few simple solutions (like the perfect travel workout equipment and our editors’ favorite water bottle), your wellness routine doesn’t have to change.
You’re going to need a solid pair of walking shoes for all your hot girl walks this summer. These extra-cushioned HOKA sneakers are ideal for getting in some serious steps.
With a leakproof lid and a double-walled design that keeps drinks cold for up to 24 hours, this is the perfect water bottle to take with you everywhere this summer.
10+ colors available
These weighted bangles make it easy to turn up the heat on your pilates session or hot girl walk.
10+ colors available
Taking your yoga sessions outside this summer? This strap makes it easy to carry your mat to the park or beach.
10+ colors available
Higher temps mean extra sweaty workouts, and you may need some help replenishing all those electrolytes you’ve lost. These electrolyte packets contain 1,000 milligrams of sodium with no added sugar, so they’re great for refueling after an intensely sweaty workout.
Electrolyte packets are handy for on-the-go use, but for everyday hydration during the summer, I love sipping on coconut water (which naturally contains hydrating electrolytes) throughout the day. Vita Coco is tasty enough to drink on its own, but I also like to mix it with some fruit juice and a splash of sparkling water for a fun, hydration-boosting mocktail.
Bloating and discomfort are the last things you want to deal with when you’re trying to enjoy your vacation. Our Wellness Editor Josie swears by these for travel to ease and prevent digestive issues on the go.
If you’re taking your runs outside this summer, this adjustable belt will keep your phone, keys, and other essentials secure and within reach.
Summer Home Items
In the heat of summer, inside with the AC blasting is one of the best places to be. That means your home deserves a little sprucing up for the summertime. And if you’re lucky enough to have an outdoor space where you can host friends or simply kick back and relax in the shade, now is the time to get it all set up for the season.
Get your bed summer-ready by swapping your sheets for a lightweight linen option. These high-quality linen sheets come in tons of colors and patterns, so you can easily find a set that matches your bedroom setup.
10+ colors available
Drinks on the patio, anyone? Whether you’re serving up lemonade, iced tea, or a batch cocktail, pouring drinks from this woven beverage pitcher will having you feeling like Nancy Meyers herself.
Grab a set of these acrylic glasses in your favorite color for at-home happy hours this summer. Indoors or out, you won’t have to worry about breakage no matter where you’re sipping.
Whether you have a tiny apartment balcony or a whole backyard to work with, a set of outdoor string lights can go a long way in creating some cozy ambiance for outdoor living this summer.
These wavy throw pillow covers are an easy, affordable way to switch up your decor for the summer and add a pop of color to your sofa.
7 colors available
I don’t care if it’s basic—Capri Blue’s Volcano candle is the ultimate summer scent in my mind. I recommend stocking up on the big size to make your house smell amazing all summer long.
This salad bowl is the perfect thing to take to backyard cookouts this summer. It comes with serving utensils that fit neatly inside the lid so you can easily take it on the go.
If you plan on hosting any outdoor dinner parties this summer (or just eating a meal on your back patio), this mesh cover will shield your food from bugs and debris until you’re ready to eat.
Why use bug spray when you can keep mosquitos at bay with a pretty candle?
If you struggle with seasonal allergies this time of year, it might be time to invest in an air purifier. This affordable option captures pollen, pollutants, and other allergens in the air and won’t take up too much space.
2 colors available
Must-Haves for Outdoor Activities
After a winter of staying indoors practically 24/7, outdoor activities are looking better than ever. But to fully partake, you need the proper gear. Beach and pool days, picnics, park dates, sporting events, maybe an outdoor concert—you might have a lot of events to prepare for this summer, and we found all the basics you need:
Your weekly farmers market haul is about to get way cuter with this embroidered canvas tote.
Whether you’re packing it with snacks and drinks for a day at the beach, a picnic in the park, or a summer road trip, this insulated cooler will keep stuff cold for hours.
3 colors available
Never carry around a wet swimsuit with your dry stuff ever again. Throw one of these waterproof bags into your suitcase or beach bag to keep your wet items separate.
7 colors available
Perfect for picnics or days at the beach, this gingham blanket has a waterproof backing and comes with a leather strap for easy carrying.
3 colors available
Keep cool while you’re out and about this summer with this mini portable fan. Small enough to tuck into any bag, it’s a lifesaver for summer sporting events, concerts, and even outdoor weddings.
8 colors available
With a colorful striped pattern and on-trend scalloped edges, this beach towel is an accessory in its own right.
Whether you’re lugging it to the beach or out to the backyard, this chair’s lightweight design makes it easy to carry. It can even lay out flat if you want to fully recline while soaking up the sun.
5 colors available
Yes, this is an essential! Documenting summer memories is so much more fun with a Polaroid-style camera.
6 colors available
You’ll never have to worry about your drink tipping over in the sand again. These beach cup holders even have an extra compartment to keep your phone or keys sand-free.
5 colors available
Carley Fortune’s latest release is the perfect book to pack for your summer travels or read on a picnic blanket in a park.
If you don’t want to risk the pages of your favorite book getting wet or full of sand, a Kindle is the way to go. This model is waterproof (in case of accidental dips in the pool) and has a glare-free display that’s easy to see even in direct sunlight.
If you haven’t yet jumped on the pickleball bandwagon, consider this your sign to start. Pick up a set of paddles and find a court near you for a fun, easy-to-pick-up summer activity.
7 colors available
Jessica Friedhoff, Senior Lifestyle Editor
Jessica Friedhoff is the Senior Lifestyle Editor at The Everygirl, where she oversees the Home & Living category of the site. She writes and edits stories across a broad range of topics including decorating, food, entertaining, travel, and more. With a pulse on the latest trends, she uses her eye for detail and design to create timely, inspiring content for our readers.
Products included in graphics linked within article.
