School is finally back in session and the shimmer of sunny days by the pool and the mantra that laziness is acceptable has finally faded into the past. I’ve found myself debating the damage a textbook could suffer if I bring it to the pool with me (p.s. don’t do it). So here I am thinking, what are some ways to keep my summer going? If I’m gonna be confined to a classroom, I’d like to have some summer left in my step, if at the least it’s the beach mix on my iPod. I’ve comprised a list of summer essentials I think we can utilize to keep summer going, if at least look the part (minus the bikini).
Wardrobe: The Arizona heat sure doesn’t prevent a summer wardrobe and send us running to our Ugg boots. Keep the beach scene alive with loose fitting tanks (if extra baggy, try tying the bottom like Kristin Cavallari below), strappy sandals, and fringe, flowery, or bright patterned accessories. A staple in my summer kit is my fedora. Always effortless, it serves as an immediate fix post swim session (or woke-up-late day). Using scarves or ribbons for turban like headbands is another great way to hide unmanageable strands. For guys, anything white, be it shorts, shoes, or hats always looks fresh, especially when mixed with a pair of Sperry’s (a personal favorite).
Hair: The art of effortless hair is a fascinating subject for me. I have spent countless hours attempting to look like I just rolled out of bed. I’ve found the best beach hair is working with what you have and mastering your natural curl or wave. A beach spray or curling balm helps maintain frizz and define natural curl. There are a million products on the market directed towards this, just look for anything that regards curl or wave activating, defining, or texturizing. Try to avoid spray waxes and beware of “scrunch” mousses and gels. I’ve found these products are not only sticky and feel dirty on the hair, but also create crunchy strands.
Make-up: Natural! If it’s a Monday afternoon, there is no reason for a full face of foundation! Not only is it clogging pores, but your classmates can notice the line created near your chin from sweat while walking to class. I live in tinted moisturizer (with SPF 15) because it’s lightweight and provides some coverage. I dust over with a bronzer or mineral powder, stick to neutral shadows, and finish with mascara. Oh, and a little lip color. It’s our last chance of the year to work coral and pink lips before the darker hues of fall set it.
Tan: If you can’t squeeze in real ray time poolside, fake it. Self tanners come in so many shades and variations everyone can find one to match their skin tone. Need a quick fix? Mix your bronzing powder in your normal body lotion, it works! (Look for a future tell-all blog of tanning favorites, personal experiences, and bronzing horror stories.)
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For comments or to ask style questions of your own and possibly be featured in a future blog, contact me at amlarso2@asu.edu. Or to hear more from the mind of a fashion blogger follow me @soamandawaslike.
