My 10 Summer Necessities

Summer in the UK is always unpredictable. It can be roasting hot one week, that leaves us all blasting the fans at full speed and chugging all the Fanta we can to keep us cool, or it can be pouring with rain. However, when the weather decides to stay sunny and warm for the most part, or when I travel abroad; I have some necessities that I use and love during the summer months.

A Staple Pair of Sandals

Starting off with a staple pair of sandals. I adore my Birkenstock dupes that withstood the previous summer and will permanently be worn this summer. Surprisingly, these ones are from F&F (Tesco’s own clothing brand) and let me tell you, don’t be so quick to judge a book from its cover. These are sturdy, comfortable, sleek and can be either dressed down for summer picnics or cocktail evenings with friends. They look gorgeous with dresses, jeans, and skirts, they are so easy to slip on, and definitely do not take up room in your suitcase for your upcoming holidays. You can pretty much purchase these everywhere; I have seen some for sale in Fat face, Ego, ASOS and of course on Vinted, all for reasonable prices. Nevertheless, for the real deal, you can purchase them on the Birkenstock website.

Basic White Tops

Even though I love funky, bright prints during the hot months, having a few basics to grab in your wardrobe, is a necessity to me. I love Zara basics for this. I wear these vests and baby tees non-stop during this time of year, with either jeans, shorts, and skirts. They look good with everything, and can be mixed and matched with many items in your wardrobe and are still bright and airy.

Beach Bag/Tote Bag

Whether you need your beach bag for towels and sun cream for your beach holiday abroad, or for picky bits and M&S cocktail cans for your picnic in Hyde Park, a handy bag like this one, is great to carry around with you. I managed to find mine off Vinted, so you will definitely be able to find similar on there, or again ASOS will supply some cute ones. These look so adorable with some sunnies and a floral dress.

Garnier Summer Body Lotion

Completing the weekly tanning routine can be tedious. So, when I want a quicker, bronzed glow, I tend to stick with the Garnier Summer Body Lotion. It adds a minimal glow to your body and ensures you look sun kissed, with the post beach day glow.

Hoop Earrings

I love a hoop earring. They make an outfit look and feel classic and finish off an outfit perfectly. If you don’t already, I think you should add some hoops, silver or gold into your jewellery box, they will be a great addition to your outfits. Gold hoops against glowy, summer skin look absolutely gorgeous.

Books

Finding time to read a book, is so much easier during this time of year, and I find I have a massive reading list to get through during the summer; for holidays or just to sit and enjoy in the garden. I tend to stick to fiction and am loving Taylor Jenkins Reid writing style, and I am finally getting round to reading Normal People after loving the BBC series so much. Escaping your phone and engulfing yourself in a story is much needed sometimes!

Fruity/Tropical Shower Gel

To spice up my showers, I am loving Radox range of summer fragrances. Go and have a browse in your local Boots/Superdrug and try all those fab summer scents.

A Good Pair of Headphones

I love my music and Spotify playlists. I always have music on in the background whenever I am doing anything, always love to create new playlists for moods, memories, and seasons. Definitely invest in a good pair of headphones for workouts, walks and being able to vibe to your amazing playlists that add to the summer fun.

Glowy Skin Tint/Primer

If you aren’t keen on a thick foundation or want something glowy underneath your foundation for Summer, a glowy skin tint/primer is perfect. I recently have been using the Elemis one, and it is stunning for underneath my foundation. However, I would totally wear it alone with a pink blush for when the weather is warm and sticky; but can still give me that natural glow. This would work well with the Garnier Body Lotion!

Scrunchies and Claw Clips

Last but not least, having something to keep your hair off your back and away from your face is a must during this season. Personally, I use scrunchies all year long, but especially during Summer, they are less harsh on your hair and can elevate an outfit round your wrist or clipped to your beach bag.

Images/Edit/Words By Alice Abel