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My mom texted yesterday to tell me there’s a heat wave rolling through and the next week is going to be brutal. “Heat index is going to feel like 102!” she wrote, like that somehow made it more manageable. It did not.
When it’s this hot outside, there are really only two acceptable options: stay in the AC or escape to the water. And because I always feel like I’m missing out when I’m indoors in the summer, I’m all about beach days, pool hangs, and sprinkler situations with the kids. Anything that involves cooling off suddenly becomes my whole personality!
But just because the weather is doing the absolute most, getting dressed doesn’t have to mean sacrificing style. Below, we’ve rounded up the best summer essentials for days spent by the water or lounging outdoors in the shade.
These easy, breathable, go-to summer essentials will help make 100-degree days feel a little more survivable.
Nordstrom Cover-Up Shirt ($59)
More than just something you throw on over a swimsuit, a good cover-up should feel like part of your outfit.
I love this lightweight Nordstrom shirt for its versatility. The linen-blend fabric is breathable on hot days, and the oversized silhouette works just as well worn open over a swimsuit or even buttoned up with breezy pants. It definitely doesn’t scream “cover-up” the second you put it on.
Shapellx Mesh Wrap Tummy Control One Piece ($64.60 – $72)
I’ve really come around on one-piece swimsuits. They’re so much chicer than they used to be, and this one is even more so with its built-in mesh wrap skirt that doubles as a stylish cover-up.
It also delivers where it counts, with sculpting tummy control that creates a smooth, flattering silhouette and adjustable straps for a comfortable fit. Translation: you can lounge by the pool looking polished instead of fussing with your swimsuit all day.
Caslon Easy Wide Leg Linen Pants ($39.75)
Once it feels like the sidewalk is melting, my denim shorts usually get demoted. Give me a pair of lightweight linen pants any day—they’re cooler, comfier, and don’t stick to your thighs when it’s a million degrees outside.
Caslon’s Easy Wide Leg Linen Pants are the definition of effortless dressing, because of their lightweight linen construction and relaxed wide-leg fit. Throw them on with a tank and sandals, and you’ve got an outfit that looks polished with almost zero effort.
Sam Edelman Bay Slide Sandal ($59.90 – $69.90)
If I’m walking around in the summer, my shoes have one job: don’t make me think about them. That means no straps digging into my heels and definitely no surprise blisters halfway through the day.
These backless Sam Edelman Bay Sandals check every box. I love how the geometric cutout design makes them feel a little more elevated than your average sandal, but the real win is the slip-on silhouette. Slide them on (literally) with everything from breezy linen pants to sundresses and swimsuits.
MANGO Natural Fiber Tote ($48.99)
Everyone needs a cute tote bag in the summer. It’s the bag that somehow ends up holding your sunscreen, water bottle, sunglasses, snacks, a paperback, and about 10 other things you swore you wouldn’t need.
And this woven tote from MANGO is a winner. Lightweight and easy to throw over your shoulder, it has an open-top design that makes grabbing your essentials a breeze. It also has a natural woven texture that gives it a polished feel, whether you’re heading to the beach or just running errands in the heat.
Supergoop! Play Antioxidant Body Mist SPF 50 Sunscreen ($18 – $24)
At this point, Supergoop! can pretty much take all my money. Unseen Sunscreen has been a staple in my routine for years, and the brand’s antioxidant body mist is another one that’s earned a permanent spot in my beach bag.
It’s lightweight, refreshing, and hands-down one of the easiest ways to reapply SPF throughout the day. I love that you can even spray it on wet skin, so it’s a great option for beach and pool days. It also gets bonus points for leaving skin looking glowy, not chalky.
Nordstrom Packable Floppy Sun Hat ($39)
I’m all for any summer accessory that multitasks. A good floppy hat like this one from Nordstrom doesn’t just complete an outfit—it also gives your face a break from the blazing sun.
The classic black color goes with everything and the wide brim offers extra coverage for your face. Best of all, the travel-friendly design means you can fold it into your beach bag or suitcase and head out the door without a second thought.
Summer style doesn’t have to be complicated. These versatile staples will help you stay comfy, feel confident, and make the most of every sunny day.
