Navigating the summer heat can be challenging, but with the right essentials, you can embrace the season with style and ease. While summer may seem like the toughest season to dress for, staying stylish in the swelter is entirely possible. We’ve curated the perfect blend of lifestyle, fashion, and grooming essentials to help you stay cool and chic.
See also: Editors’ picks: Essential gear you must-have for your next hiking adventure
16 must-have summer essentials to keep you fresh, cool and having fun in the sun
Imagine splashy swim trunks that make you stand out at the beach, invigorating cologne that leaves a lasting impression, and weightless bottoms that keep you comfortable. We’re not stopping there. From hydrating skincare products that refresh and protect to gadgets that elevate your summer fun and perfect beach reads, we’ve got you covered.
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Whether you’re planning a spontaneous getaway, gearing up for outdoor adventures, or simply enjoying those lazy summer days, these essentials will ensure your summer is not just hot but truly unforgettable.
Neutrogena Invisible Daily Defense Face Serum Sunscreen, SPF 50+
If you’re like me and love basking in the sun, then a top-notch sunscreen is a non-negotiable in your summer bag. Protect your beautiful money maker with Neutrogena Invisible Daily Defense Face Serum Sunscreen. This SPF 50+ face serum provides up to 8 hours of hydration, shielding your skin from sun damage while keeping it soft and smooth. Each bottle contains 50ml of sun protection perfection.
Available at Amazon
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Dior x Stone Island Vest
In case you missed it, Dior and Stone Island dropped the capsule collection of the summer, and saying we’re living is an understatement. This collaboration fuses Stone Island’s utilitarian streetwear roots with Dior’s luxury aesthetic and quality, proving that opposites truly attract. Together, they’ve created something extraordinary—just like this light green cotton vest. Pair it with your favorite pair of cargos and light-colored sneakers, and BAM—here’s your staple look of the summer.
Available at Dior.
MCM Onyx Eau De Parfum
One of my favorite things about summer, besides the blistering heat, is updating my fragrance collection with something fresh, bold, and new. Enter ONYX. Hand-picked Nigerian ginger and spices set the tone with smooth, earthy accords, while French lavender at the heart blurs the lines between fresh and floral. The dry-down notes of clean woods and Haitian vetiver exude modern masculinity—fiery warmth with a hint of sweetness. It’s the perfect summer fragrance!
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Available at MCM
Reebok x Size? Vancouver Club C 85 Shoe
On the topic of summer collaborations, Reebok and streetwear retailer Size? have released a Vancouver-inspired shoe collection. Kicking off their Hyperlocal Cities series and paying tribute to Vancouver, this new twist on the iconic Club C 85 features distinct details of the 604, including branding on the heel tab and sockliner. With a color palette that combines Reebok’s classic vintage chalk, glen green, and flash red, each pair is crafted from rich, textured suede with leather accents. It’s the easy go-to shoe of the summer—perfect for adding a touch of laid-back style to any outfit.
Available at Size?
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KMS Beach Styling Creme
If you ask me, one of the best parts about a beach day full of swimming and sunshine is the beach waves you’re left with afterward—perfectly textured locks courtesy of the salty sea. Want to keep that effortlessly tousled look all summer long? Look no further than KMS Beach Styling Creme. With this magic in a bottle, you can bring the beach with you wherever you go and rock those dreamy waves anytime, anywhere.
Available at Chatters
Sunny Days St-Tropez Swim Shorts
Gentlemen, say it with me: The era of knee-long swimming shorts with wave prints is long gone. If you think the ladies at the beach want to see you covering up those boulders you built in the gym, you are sadly mistaken. Opt for something shorter and more alluring—like these St. Tropez-inspired shorts by Sunny Days. Trust me, you’ll turn heads and make waves in all the right ways.
Available at Sunny Days
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Duer Weightless Poplin AC Pant
Finding a weightless and breathable pair of pants can be a daunting task, especially in the summer. That is, until Duer released their Poplin AC pant. Ultra-lightweight and breathable, these pants are designed with pocket and waistband features that deliver a sophisticated look and feel. Natural performance fibers work together with stretch and Duer’s signature gusset to ensure all-day comfort. Whether you’re heading to the office or out for a casual stroll, the Poplin AC pant keeps you cool, covered, and comfortable.
Available at Duer
Dock & Bay Quick Dry Beach Towel
I used to think the perfect beach towel didn’t exist until I discovered Dock & Bay’s quick-dry beach towel. Made from 100% recycled plastic bottles and drying 3x faster than cotton, this ultimate beach towel repels all odors and sogginess. Say goodbye to lugging around thick, soggy towels that take forever to dry and hello to lightweight, eco-friendly convenience.
Available at Dock & Bay
YETI Tundra Cooler
There’s no greater beach companion than a YETI cooler. Crowned the holy grail of coolers for its versatility, this big guy keeps your drinks ice-cold, features a never-fail hinge system, and stands as the brand’s most durable cooler yet. What more could you ask for? It’s all here.
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Available at YETI
Stanley IceFlow Flip Straw Tumbler
The hydration hero you didn’t know you needed: the Stanley IceFlow Flip Straw Tumbler. This tumbler is a total game-changer, keeping your drinks ice-cold for hours and featuring a spill-proof flip straw lid for easy sipping. Made from rugged, high-quality materials, it’s perfect for any adventure. Whether you’re on the go or just kicking back, this tumbler will easily become your new go-to.
Available at Stanley
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DOSS Waterproof Bluetooth Speaker
Whether you’re catching rays on the beach or feeling the breeze while cruising on a boat, a solid Bluetooth speaker is a must. Bring all the vibes with this waterproof Bluetooth speaker, boasting bass like no other and surround-sound quality audio. Its perfect portable size means it’ll fit right into that stuffed tote bag of yours, ready to amp up any summer story.
Gentle Monster Antena BL3 Sunglasses
When summer rolls around, a killer pair of sunglasses is non-negotiable. They don’t just amp up your look; they shield your eyes and let you check out the scene (and those beach cuties) without being obvious. These royal blue stunners from Gentle Monster are your secret weapon for effortless style. Snag a pair before I do!
Available at Gentle Monster
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Monte & Coe Organic Cotton Tote Bag
Whether you’re off to the beach, a park movie night, or just shopping at Whole Foods, a stylish, high-quality tote is a must. Monte & Coe’s tote, crafted from robust 18oz organic cotton duck canvas with vegetable-tanned leather handles, delivers durability and elegance. It’s the perfect blend of function and sophistication, showcasing their commitment to exceptional craftsmanship and sustainability.
Available at Monte & Coe
Jacquemus Off-White Bucket Hat
It wasn’t until Jacquemus released their iconic bucket hat that I was convinced a bucket hat could be both elevated and stylish. This frayed expedition hat features a lightweight cotton construction, a long adjustable strap for a customizable fit, and a silver metal logo that adds a touch of sophistication. The topstitched brim not only enhances durability but also ensures that this bucket hat is as practical as it is fashionable. Trust me, I have it in two colours.
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Available at Jacquemus
Ninja Woodfire Pro Connect XL Outdoor Grill & Smoker
Nothing says summer essential quite like a woodfire outdoor grill and smoker. Whether you’re grilling on your apartment patio, in the backyard, or lakeside with your crew, this fully connected grill lets you enjoy your cookout without missing a beat. You can monitor and control your cook, get real-time notifications, and access cooking charts—all from your phone. This puts outdoor cooking on a whole new level.
Available at Ninja
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Parkit Voyager Beach Chair
The voyager chair is perfect for your next beach day. It combines top-notch comfort with rugged durability, making it your go-to for relaxing outdoors. With a built-in cooler to keep your drinks ice-cold, storage under the seat for all your essentials, a versatile cupholder, and hands-free carry straps, this chair is designed to handle any adventure. Ready for sun, sand, and surf, it keeps you comfy and organized while you soak up the good vibes.
Available at Parkit Movement
