There’s something about summer that just makes me want to keep things simple. We’re usually bouncing between travel, work, and whatever plans come up last minute—and the last thing I want to be doing is overthinking what to pack, wear, or grab on the way out the door.
That’s why I tend to reach for things that are equal parts practical and low-maintenance. I’m talking about the summer staples that just work—the little things that make your days easier, hold up through the chaos, and that you won’t lose sleep over if they get tossed in a beach bag, spilled on, or left out in the sun a little too long.
These are the items I find myself coming back to year after year. Nothing too pricey or precious, mostly Amazon finds or things I’ve had forever that have stood the test of time. If you’re looking to streamline your summer and keep it feeling effortless, you’ll love this lineup.
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Fashion & Accessories
Linen Button-Up Dress
This dress basically lives on me all summer. It’s lightweight, loose but flattering, and somehow works for everything. You can throw it on over a swimsuit, wear it with sneakers to run errands, or style it with sandals and earrings for a dinner out. It’s my capsule wardrobe staple that can walk on its own at this point! If you’re looking for one piece that checks every box—effortless, chic, versatile—this is it. It takes the guesswork out of getting dressed, and you’ll end up reaching for it way more than you think.
Crochet Dress / Swim Cover-Up
This dress/cover-up is the easiest thing to throw on post-beach or lake day — I own it in a couple of colors. It offers the perfect amount of coverage while still feeling cute and summery. If you like a cover-up that can take you from the sand to the patio, here it is. You’ll love how easy it is to throw it on without thinking—and still feel pulled together. It’s one of those under-$40 Amazon finds that looks way more elevated than it should.
Straw Hat
I don’t go anywhere sunny without this hat. It’s packable (so it folds up into a tote with zero creases), and it instantly makes me look more put together. This hat has also saved me on more bad hair days than I’d like to admit. It’s that one accessory that makes every outfit look more intentional—and it actually protects your face. If you don’t already have a go-to summer hat, let this be the one.
Aviator Glasses
I keep a pair in my bag, in the car, and at my desk. They come in a set and go with everything. I wear them constantly—partly for eye strain, and partly because they make me feel a little more polished (and I can actually see). If you’re on a screen all day or just want a cute pair of glasses that give off “quiet luxury” vibes—these do both. Bonus: they’re affordable enough to stock up without stress.
Beauty & Wellness
Self Tanner (Body + Face)
This brand has been a game changer. I use the body tanner weekly for a subtle, even glow and the face mist a couple times a week mixed with moisturizer. They’re organic, smell great, and have never left me streaky. It’s the best I’ve tried, and I always get compliments on my skin after applying it. For that fresh-from-vacation look without the sun damage, this is your new best friend. It’s easy to apply, looks super natural, and won’t ruin your sheets—what more could you ask for?
Gummy Vitamins
Okay, these feel like a treat and not a chore. Just keep them in your tote for a mid-afternoon pick-me-up, especially when you’re on the go. They taste good, make you feel better about you routine, and sneak some nutrition in … because hey, summer is all about the good eating (cue burgers and shakes). Who wants to stress if they miss their veggies? Not me! And, they’re not like the weird chalky vitamins we grew up with — they’re actually tasty.
Hair Wax Stick for Flyaways
New obsession. Love having my hair up in the summer, but those flyaways are relentless—especially with humidity or wind. This stick is compact, mess-free, and has truly become my lifesaver. I swipe it on my ponytail, and instantly look and feel a little more put together. It tames without making your hair greasy—and it’s so easy to throw in your bag!
This big boy is a holy grail for your skin. You’ll love the thick moisture that it provides, and will feel hydrated all day long. An easy step to add to your everyday routine! It’s one of those “one-and-done” products—no need to layer a million things.
Outdoor Living
Outdoor Chair
These are on our back patio and we always get DMs about them. They look clean and classic, are super comfy, and actually hold up well. They are an Amazon find, but they’ve been one of our best investments. I’m telling you — run don’t walk if you need some new patio furniture this season. Can’t beat the price.
Outdoor Side Table
Nothing fancy here—just the most versatile little side table that works in any setup. It’s lightweight enough to move around and neutral enough to blend in. I use it constantly next to a lounge chair or pulled up to hold drinks. Everyone needs that one “grab and go” table you can shift around as needed. This one’s perfect for drinks, books, citronella candles—whatever your summer setup looks like.
Linen Tablecloth
You can use this pretty tablecloth on your outdoor table for just about everything: weekday dinners, last-minute gatherings, even to cover the table when you’re working outside. It’s oversized, soft, and easy to throw in the wash. And, it instantly makes any table feel more elevated, even if you’re just having takeout or coffee outside. If you’d like to make your outdoor space feel a little more intentional, start with this piece.
Entertaining & Home
Cordless Table Lamp
You’ve definitely seen this lamp if you’ve followed me for a while. It moves all over the house and gives off the coziest glow — without needing to find a plug! Set it on the dining table, the patio, and even the bathroom when guests are over. If you want to instantly set the mood without dealing with cords or outlets, this little lamp is your answer. It’s the easiest way to make any space feel warm and intentional.
Hurricane Candle Holders
These candle holders make every table look styled. I love the classic shape, and they’re the kind of thing you can use year-round but they especially shine outdoors in the summer. They work great as vases too. If you want a quick way to dress up a dinner table, these are really versatile. Add candles, florals, even clippings from the yard—and you’re done.
Chiller Glasses
These are probably the most fun thing on this list. They’re for cocktails, yes, but also for caviar, sorbet, or anything that needs a little presentation moment. And, they’re unexpected … everyone always compliments them. They’re perfect for that “host with the most” vibe, without trying too hard. Even sparkling water feels a little more special in these.
This is my favorite new summer companion. My bestie gifted it to me, and now I’m obsessed and want one in every color! We mostly keep it on the back deck for hosting—it’s the perfect size for holding a couple bottles of wine, looks cute sitting out, and somehow keeps everything cold for 50 hours (yes, really). It’s not too bulky, easy to carry if you do want to take it on the go (even comes with a shoulder strap for carrying) It’s a low key hosting essential.
Travel
Beis Carry-On + Weekender Bag
Bought these as a set and they’ve made me feel so much more organized when traveling! The compartments actually work, and they still look good after several rough airport runs. You’ll especially love the bottom shoe compartment in the weekender. If you’re tired of overstuffed totes or carry-ons that give you zero structure, these will completely change how you pack.
Makeup Organizer Case
This is my travel MVP. Perfect for a weekend getaway or week long tour. It has compartments so everything stays in place. No more digging through a bag and hoping to find your lip balm! It looks sleek and fits into your tote or carry-on easily. If you’re even a little Type A (or just sick of exploding makeup bags), this case will make you feel like you finally have your life together.
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So there you have it—my tried-and-true, can’t-live-without summer lineup. These are the things I genuinely use on repeat and get asked about all the time. I never want to gatekeep the little details that make life easier (and cuter) this time of year. Whether it’s something to toss in your beach bag, set out for an impromptu backyard hang, or keep you feeling pulled-together on the go, I hope a few of these finds end up being just as useful for you.
Summer always moves fast, and I’m all about keeping things low-effort but still feeling like you. Let me know if you try any of these things—I love hearing what you all end up loving! Here’s to long days, easy routines, and soaking up all the sunshine ☀️?
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