Published: May 5, 2010

Summer vacation is almost here (finally!), and for at least a few short months we can forget about waking up early for class and instead focus on putting in some quality time with a lounge chair by the pool.

So if you’re looking for an effortlessly fabulous summer, here are a few essentials you’ll need.

A Flattering Swimsuit

Swimsuits are not exactly a girl’s best friend. Granted, it can be difficult to feel confident when dressed in approximately four square inches of spandex. So give your body some love by putting it in the right bathing suit, and you’ll be surprised to find a more sassy and confident you.

If you are heavier on the bottom:

Avoid skimpy bottoms, boy shorts or any bottoms with details. Instead try a patterned top and a plain bottom to attract attention upwards.

If you are heavy around the middle:

Avoid bikinis and short or loose tankinis at all costs. Also make sure to stay away from those metallic fabrics. Instead try a draped or ruched one-piece and add some flair with a fun pattern, which will camouflage any lumps or bumps.

If you are heavier on top:

Make sure to avoid strapless styles, as they can cause unsightly bulges and some seriously unwanted attention if they lose the fight with gravity. Instead try a bikini top with underwire support or try a double lined halter-top with a band support.

That being said…

Try out some juicy colors for your swimsuit; the beach is no place for black.

Or try this season’s fun cut-out swimsuits or monokinis, but be serious about the sunscreen because they can leave some seriously kooky tan lines.

Serious Sun Protection  

Sun protection is a necessity during the summer. The consequences can be scary. And yes it has been said time and time again, but let’s say it one more time. Make sure to protect your skin from the sun; it will thank you later.

Sun Hat 

In addition to being a great accessory and a tangled hair concealer, a sun hat is also great sun protection for your face.

If you’re tall, try a big glamorous sun hat. Don’t worry; you have the stature to pull it off.

If you’re on the shorter side, try a jaunty fedora.

If you’ve got a round face, a hat with a taller crown is the right pick for you.

If you’ve got a long, rectangular face, try a hat with a deeper crown, which won’t add any more length to your face.

Sunscreen 

Don’t forget the sunscreen! 30 SPF or higher is preferred, and remember to reapply every couple of hours.

If you simply must have a tan, skip the tanning bed (of course) and try Hawaiian Tropic Island Glow Daily moisturizer, Jergens Daily Glow Moisturizer, St. Tropez Self-Tan Bronze Mousse or Sun Laboratories Dark Sunsation Self-Tanning Lotion. They’ll give you that sun-kissed glow minus the potential harm.

Sunglasses 

The trick to picking the most flattering sunglasses for you is to pick a pair that are opposite in proportion to the shape of your face. This will create balance and have you looking great.

Have a square face? Check out the trendy round frames à la Proenza Schouler.

Have a round face? Try a pair of classic, square tortoise shell sunglasses. They are absolutely retro-cute.

Heart-shaped? Try a pair of
flat -topped ray bans or a rimless style.

Aviators are a classic and are suitable for just about everyone. Another option are the new edgy cat eye sunglasses à la Alexander Wang, which will highlight (or create) model worthy cheekbones for just about anyone.

Cute Cover-ups  

You have to get off that beach chair sometime, so pack some cute sandals and a versatile sarong for easy breezy attire and head over to the nearest ice cream parlor looking summer chic.

Sandals

The huarache or the classic gladiator are perfect options for the city. They stay strapped to your feet and are comfortable to wear, as thongs on the subway are just plain unsanitary.

Of course, you can always go with the
ever-classic Havaiana’s. They are not only waterproof and come in a zillion different colors, but they’re cheap so you won’t be disappointed if you lose them.

Sarongs 

Sarongs are available for cheap at most department stores. You can even make your own by using a large, inexpensive scarf. But if you’re looking for something special, check out Etsy.com for some fabulously dyed sarongs made of luxurious fabrics.

How do you wear a sarong?

It can be a shirt, a skirt, a bag, a head scarf, or even a blanket… just use your imagination.