Seven Summer Essentials I Couldn't Live Without

Whether I'm spending a sunny day on the pebbles at my local beach enjoying a picnic with my younges or relaxing on our annual family pilgrimage in the Mediterranean sunshine on the Costa Del Sol, there are certain items that I can't, or won't live without.
Some are old favourites, some new and exciting finds and some are accessories staples that serve a purpose whilst allowing me to indulge in some kind of beach/seaside style, which isn't always easy when your melting in near tropical temperatures.

Sunhat - Nobody wants a burnt scalp or hairline, and we all want to look effortlessly stylish, so for me a straw trilby or panama kills two birds with one stone! You wouldn't let your children out in the sun without one, so why wouldn't you wear one?


 Face Protection - With age comes an increased importance to protect my face with a sun cream especially designed to combat premature ageing and this fantastic Sunsense product first came in a Glossybox a few months back and was my go to protection when I went to Marbella back in May. It has also acted as a daily base during the recent hot weather and a full size product is currently on it's way to me as I type.

Hair Protection - Having bleach blonde hi-lights means I have to take care of my hair in the sun to avoid looking like I have a haystack stuck on my head so I always use a hair protection spray designed for use in the Sun.  This year I have bought a Paul Mitchell product but there are loads on the market.

Sunglasses - Need little introduction as to the benefits they provide for your eyes! I used to be all about the huge black "Jackie O" style but since investing in a pair of mirrored aviators last summer, I realise if you can only afford one pair of designer sunnies, then make it an aviator! Gold frames always look ultra glam but I stick with silver to match my watch.

Cool Bag - Gone are the days when I trekked off to the beach with a carrier bag full of picnic goodies and a cool bag is now a summer essential I can't live without as I'm not a fan of a warm ham sandwich (oh the childhood memories!). John Lewis have a great selection online which includes brands such as Thermos and Joules.


Flip Flops - I am a huge Havianas fan whether beach, poolside or just pottering around indoors and have just bought pair number 4! The new season slim range had me hooked with it's raised gold logo, I couldn't justify the purchase but made it anyway!  I like something that is easy to slip on and don't want to fiddle around with straps and buckles every time I get off my sunbed (which isn't often to be fair).


 Rehydrate - After a long day spent in the sunshine, no matter which sunscreen you use, your skin will be in need of hydration and a cult product I have used for many years but don't think I have ever blogged about, is Hei Poa Tahiti Monoi Oil.  I first discovered this product many years ago on the HQ Hair website and have bought a bottle for every holiday since.  It solidifys in colder temperatures but no fear of that in Spain in August!  This fabulous product really enhances your tan while it hydrates your skin  You can read more about the ethos behind this brand here plus there are lots of reviews on make-up alley here where everybody seems to use this as a hair conditioning oil, although I always buy mine to use as an aftersun but it is a multi-functioning product with a full range of hair and skincare at HQ Hair here.