Now boys and girls, whilst I can wholeheartedly admit that I am 100% an autumn kind of girl, I found myself taking summer by the horns and actually booking a summer holiday to Fuerteventura! As a bit of a novice in the summer essentials world, I did some research and discovered a whole world of facial sprays, sweat-proof makeup and summer clothes. Whether you're planning an exotic summer break in the Mediterranean or soaking up the sun at home during our mini heatwave, I've got you covered. Here's my list of summer essentials as we spring forward into summer!
1. (And I CAn't stress this enough) Sun cream
First of all, why is something so essential so damn expensive? £15 for a bottle of anti-burning cream seems a little steep for something so essential, such is the capitalist world. However, there are some cheaper options in the likes of Home Bargains and Asda, and it's something you just can't scrimp on. And more to the point, don't think that just because you're in England you won't need sun cream. You can definitely still burn. Be realistic about the factor you need: it's better to be safe than to be a walking lobster. I know there are some foundations and moisturisers on the market claiming to have SPF in them, but most of the time, the max is SPF 15 and I would always apply an actual sun cream before any other products if you're planning on spending a lot of time in the sun. And don't forget to reapply throughout the day to keep you safe from the rays and feeling fresh and moisturised.
2. A supportive bikini
I did a LOT of research on bikinis and the styles I would feel most confident in. I discovered some affordable options on ASOS, including this Wolf & Whistle cut out bikini. I knew I wanted something high-waisted to accentuate my curves and the cut outs in these bottoms gives the bikini a sexier take on a full-coverage brief. The Wolf & Whistle range on ASOS has a lot of options that provide full coverage with a modern, sexy twist like this classic set. The top comes in bra sizes and has slight padding and underwire for support. The top starts from a size 30DD and goes up to a 36G and provides excellent support for my bigger chested ladies. And the best news? It's on sale! The bottoms are £8 and the top retails for £14.
3. Rimmel Wonder'Full 24hr Brow gel
Brows frame your face, and while summer is all about embracing the natural look, I felt a whole lot more complete with a bit of definition to my brows. The Rimmel Wonder'full Gel adds a natural sweep of colour to your brows without making them look too defined. The long-lasting formula is waterproof and in my experience, has survived the swimming pool test on many occasions. I found mine in the makeup section is Asda for less than a fiver and found the small brush applicator easy to use and the product dries down pretty quickly so you can be out the door and down to the beach in minutes.
4. VASELINE
This multi-use product is not to be overlooked. Dry skin? Sore lips? Makeup removal? Split ends? This guy has you covered. It's an affordable classic and an essential in everyone's holiday makeup kit to combat all of the wear and tear our bodies go through in the warmer months.
5. Talc
Another multi-use products that benefits more than just babies, talc is the answer to all of our summer problems. Kiss goodbye to chaffing and greasy roots! Talc tackles sweat and oils and actually smells pretty good too, leaving you feeling fresher and chafe-free as you wonder around in the sun.
6. ASOS Broderie Trousers
I never thought I'd see the words 'broderie' and 'trousers' in the same sentence and actually think it was a good idea. HOWEVER, I bought these pants on a whim, hoping to find the perfect summer pants. Unlike most broderie items, these pants are stretchy and have plenty of room. The little ruffled flare at the bottom gives them a fun, girly twist and the holes in the material provide plenty of ventilation for your legs, so they actually felt pretty light-weight for a relatively heavy fabric. They are basically see-through so I wore a pair of full-coverage black knickers underneath and I didn't feel too exposed. These pants were only £16 and I loved the way the ASOS website had styled the pants, so I also bought the black boob tube from the fuller bust range and I absolutely fell in love with it. The crop was only £5 and is an absolute staple in my summer wardrobe. The top has a bit of extra length to cover the material your boobs take up and it feels so secure. Teamed with my red, strappy, low heel sandals from Primark, this was my absolute favourite summer evening look.