Aug 23

Aug 23 Summer Must-Haves 2020

Let’s face it, I think a lot of us are asking, was summer really here? If it wasn’t for the 95 degree days in DC, I would have thought it was still March. Sadly my summer was a generally uneventful one (with many trips, weddings, and events canceled) and so I found myself wearing and using different things more. My summer particularly involved lounging with close friends on patios, pools and boats, and generally just being outdoors soaking up the sun. I found I did not have much use for anything except bathing suits and linen cover-ups, not that I’m complaining!

So, since hind sight is 20/20, I decided to round up the 5 things I could not have lived without this summer. These items were the GOAT’s of summer for me, aka I used them on the regular, if not daily. I tend to buy quality over quantity, and that has proved well for me since I feel like I get so many uses out of these classic, timeless items. Hopefully now you can grab them while they are on sale to tuck away for next year!

Classic Linen Shirt

I bought this linen shirt in multiple colorways from Donna Lewis right as the weather started warming, and I’m almost tempted to buy more. A classic linen shirt makes me feel like I’m on the beach in St. Bart’s. I wore this with everything from shorts to jeans to bathing suits; anything goes with a classic linen shirt, and a fun color really emboldens the look! While I found my perfect linen shirt locally at Donna Lewis, I linked some great options below!

Frank and Eileen Linen Shirt

Click to shop!

Ralph Lauren Linen Shirt

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Trendy White Shorts

Another go-with-anything item, the white (or off-white) short is a must-have for summer. I purchased two new pairs this year, one a more classic non-frayed white pair from Frame, and then the highly lusted after Reese short by Agolde. These both give totally different looks but are so versatile and make white shorts look relevant in 2020. Can’t go wrong!

Agolde Reese Short

***Click to shop!***

Elevated Beach Tote

Whether you go for a spurge or a steal, having an elevated beach tote can make your summer life so much easier. I of course decided to splurge on this gorgeous Saint Laurent number I had been eyeing for a year, but hesitated at first because I thought it was too casual for day-to-day. Man, am I happy I took the plunge because it seamlessly took me from work to the pool, and carried ALL my summer accessories (plus towels, sunscreen, and anything else I wanted to fit in my Mary Poppins bag).

Saint Laurent Rive Gauche Tote

*Click to shop*!

Grown-up Beach Towel

Since I was frequenting beach and pool, I felt it was finally time to have a beach towel that was not purchased when I was in third grade by my parents (am I alone here?) So when I saw these classic towels from Tory Burch, I was ecstatic. Now I look like an adult when I go to the pool, and I have a feeling these will stand the test of time.

Sophisticated Sunscreen

The last piece of the summer puzzle: sunscreen! Although, I will probably be using this great product year-round since it’s so easy to travel with. Sure, your typical CVS sunscreen will do the job, but when you’re using sunscreen everyday (as you should), it’s nice to have a fancy one that makes you feel good using it. This Supergoop! Glow Stick is so nice because it’s a roll on and clear, so you can slide it over your face or body and it doesn’t leave much of a residue. You can purchase it locally at Bellacara