The Summer Musts: Live Your Summer Style

Tracy Flynn Downing

May 30, 2024

summer is one of my favorite times of year and this is the guide you need for all the things you need to live your style.

i feel like summer should be a time that is effortless and fun, and that’s why i created this guide to make it easy.

i would like to preface by saying that you don’t need to buy new things to live your style, it’s really about taking these concepts and making your day to day feel more like you.

Let’s Chat Makeup:

a full face of makeup is just not for me when it comes to the summer. i like to keep it simple and these are all tried and true things that i love! the merit great skin is like a drink for your skin. it gives you a subtle glow and can be work with our without makeup a tinted sunscreen is great for a little glow and keeps it simple while giving your skin protection. a good concealer is all you need to feel put together with minimal other steps. if you need a foundation, a tinted moisturizer is the way to go. it’s lightweight and this fenty one is great. once i get tan, i just go for bronzer, and right now my favorite is this one by kosas. for a pretty flush a bright pink blush looks great. a little pink lip gloss to go with will help balance your face for brows, a brow gel is easy and just gives your face the perfect frame without the fuss a creamy shadow for eyes is great, or an eyeshadow stick makes a statement with ease when it comes to mascara, my tried and true lash idole is all your need! for an allover glow, this ambient light powder gives a great filtered look. to seal it all in, this setting spray will have your makeup staying on even through sweat.

Let’s Chat Clothes:

you don’t need to redo your entire wardrobe to be set for summer. a few new pieces can mix in with what you already have. accessories and shoes are your best friend when it comes to changing up a look.

TOPS: when it comes to tops, i like to opt for 1 statement top, a few good basics that mix well with your wardrobe, a comfy sweatshirt that is lightweight, an oversized cardigan, denim jacket, linen button down and a graphic tee

BOTTOMS: for bottoms, everyone needs a go to denim short, linen pull on ones (that match your button down), and a skirt.

DRESSES: for dresses, i like a mix of very casual and ones that can go dressy. a classic t shirt dress can also work as a swim cover up. a floral midi looks great with flip flops or a dressier sandal. a cute mini dress is great for day and you can add a denim jacket for night time. a maxi dress in a simple pattern can go evening, daytime or even occasion dress. a solid maxi dress or jumpsuit is a go to for vacation because it is effortless and chic.

MIX IT UP: the fun part is mixing these pieces, you can wear a linen set, or wear the pieces as separates. throw on your graphic tee with shorts, or over a dress for a more casual vibe. throw on a belt to go more polished. sneakers and a hat are perfect for day. so many endless options!

Let’s Chat Shoes:

when it comes to shoes, i think everyone needs 5 types of shoe and they will be set for the season: casual | sneaker | neutral | statement | streamline

flip flops are perfect to wear to the beach, but also can take any dressier outfit and tone it down for a more casual look sneakers are essential. they go with everything, even dresses. swap out your dad sneakers for something a little more streamlined. the adidas sambas are having a moment and are a great option. mesh flats are very trendy right now and can really make a fun statement. wedge sandals are very comfortable and are perfect to dress up any outfit. also love an espadrille for a classic summer style. a trendy, colorful shoe is a fun statement piece. i love these striped toms because they are comfortable and scream summer. to me, flats make life so much easier and carefree. they work with everything and can dress and outfit up or down depending on how your accessorize. metallic details make any shoe look a little more fun. gold or silver hardware looks so chic and can really spruce up an outfit

Let’s Chat Accessories:

the outfit makers, accessories can transform an outfit from casual to dressy in an instant! a scarf is a must have. tie it in your hair, on your bag, or even around your waist to elevate a cheerful phone case will make you smile every time you read a text colorful jewelry is hot for summer. a beaded necklace or trendy string bracelets add a pop of color bows are big this year, and one a shade similar to your hair color is tres chic sunglasses are essential and a great accessory a straw handbag just pulls any look together big, bold earrings look fabulous and are perfect to wear when your hair is back to really show them off trucker hats are having a moment, and they also help keep the sun out of your eyes! ladies, if you hate the pads in swimwear and bralettes, you need these cakes! they are a grippy not sticky solution to create a seamless look in all your tops + dresses make any outfit look more polished by simply adding a belt to pull it all together

Let’s Chat Vacation:

i am an overpacker. i can’t help it. i am really trying to change that for my vacation this summer a great beach bag will keep you organized and ready to seize the day i love these beach towels. they are super light and come in tons of fun colors. use them to dry off, or lay it out for optimal tanning sunscreen is key and don’t forget to spray your scalp. i love this sun bum spray for my hair. or, opt for a baseball hat to provide shade and protection these reef sandals are so great for the beach. they are comfortable, easy to walk in, strap on your foot and they are waterproof don’t forget a great pair of sunglasses. go for something that gives you lots of coverage and polarized are even better a chic swimsuit is a must. this polka dot number is so stunning and is neutral enough to wear with all your cover ups speaking of cover ups, keep these simple too! a linen button down, crochet pants or an easy dress are perfect a cute flat sandal is a great way to elevate your beachwear for an impromptu dinner date

Let’s Chat Home:

i love making a few swaps in my home to create a seasonal vibe. a really easy addition is a bright colored dish towel. it adds a cheery vibe and makes drying dishes a little less painful. i love a fun plate for summer. i use colorful plates when i cook out and it just makes the meal feel more special chic candleholders will transform your tablescape for your next dinner party. add something unique, even if you are outdoors to set the mood swap out your picture frames with some new prints! i may be biased, but our latest collection features some great options a seasonal vase adds a little interest and something to talk about. love this shell version for summer scents are essential! find a signature scent for your space and use it all season everyone loves a cozy blanket, but swap out your fur and wool for something a little lighter throw pillows can literally change the whole look of your couch. try a contrasting color for something bold. a new piece of art is always a good idea. this leather strap sign with herbs is perfect to add some pop to the kitchen lastly, fresh flowers are a must. they will make you happy every time you see them