Summer's finally here! It's time to whip out our shorts (please mind the crack... and the under-butt) and soak up the sun. I've come up with a list with a few of my must-have items you'll need to survive this Summer.

I like to treat myself to one new bikini every Summer. This year, I wanted something pretty and unique, so I opted for a suit from Cabana Anna Swimwear. When I first laid eyes on the Malibu Bandeau and Crystal Cove Brief, it was love at first sight. Not only do I love me some pink and white stripes, the silhouette of the bikini is fun and very feminine, and the bow cascading down the top adds a glamorous and flirty touch.

This swimwear line was founded and is designed exclusively by my friend Anna. All of her swimwear is fair-trade and made in the USA (oh, and did I mention really cute!?). She has a great online boutique that you must check out. Stop by her Facebook and Instagram to say hi and check out her beautiful images -- be sure to let her know I sent you!


ALTERNA Caviar CC Cream for Hair 10-in-1 Complete Correction
the HairRescue

Every time I hear either BB or CC attached to a beauty product, I cringe. I'm instantly skeptical -- doesn't it seem like brands are taking this BB/CC marketing thing a little too far? I think yes. I'm assuming you do, too. That's why it took me so long to finally try this out. CC cream for hair? What does that even mean? In the case of this stuff, I can tell you it means a whole lotta good for your hair in only 1-3 pumps of product.

This claims to provide moisture, shine, smoothness, softness, anti-breakage, heat protection, light hold, UV protection, manageability and strength. While I can't detect whether this product is living up to all of these claims, I've noticed my hair is immensely softer, shinier, smoother, stronger and more hydrated. As a matter of fact, I give it full credit for my hair accruing only 1 inch of damage after waiting 5 months for a haircut (bad me). Once a skeptic; now, a believer.


L'ORÉAL Colour Riche Caresse - Sunset Angora
the Pout

Though I tend to favor my high-end makeup, I'm occasionally blown away by a drugstore product. I've been very impressed with L'Oréal's cosmetics line. In particular, I've been loving their Colour Riche Caresse in Sunset Angora. It smells/tastes lightly like honey, and it is a nicely-pigmented cross between tinted lip balm and lipstick that somehow manages not to deprive my lips of all moisture -- it actually may even add a hint of hydration.  

Aside from the excellent texture and pleasant smell, this shade is a universally flattering reddish-coral that can help anyone looks more awake and radiant.


tarte - Lights, Camera, Splashes 4-in-1 Waterproof Mascara


DISCLAIMER: I designed the graphic above, but the images used are product shots taken from the brands' respective websites and online boutiques.