Say It Ain't So, Summer
A trio of finds to help you hold onto the sunshine for as long as possible.
Summer temps may still be in full swing, but with kids heading back to school and vacations winding down, it only seems like a matter of time before the cable knits and PSLs roll into town. Because we wait so long for the (fleeting) summer sun here in the UK, I’m doing everything possible to stay in summer mode. From dining al fresco to avoiding closed-toed shoes whenever possible, I’m making the most of every dry day.
The three buys featured in this week’s edition will keep you in the summer spirit as the days get shorter. Take them with you on one final getaway then keep them handy as we transition into autumn.
That summertime feeling is here to stay.
1. Bondi Sands SPF 50+ Fragrance-Free Sunscreen Lotion (£18.99)
As a millennial, I have a rather poor history when it comes to sun protection. Finding a body formula that didn’t break me out was a struggle—add to that a sensitivity to fragrances in skincare products and the search gets even tougher. Thankfully, Australian brand Bondi Sands has a line of fragrance-free, water-resistant sunscreens to protect you from head to toe. This lotion contains vitamin E and aloe vera to hydrate without greasiness, which makes it perfect for year-round use. You can smell the SPF a bit upon application, but it fades quickly.
2. A&F Sloane Tailored Pant (£65)
I never thought at 36 years old I would be recommending a pair of Abercrombie trousers, but here we are. Call it a tribute to my mall rat days. The truth is, these lightweight, menswear-inspired trousers are dressy enough for the office or theater but look equally as good paired with sneakers and a t-shirt or tank. Available in more than a dozen colors and four lengths, my camel and black pairs have been in steady rotation in my wardrobe all season. Now, I’m going back for the green pair … and probably the navy … for autumn layering.
3. The Retreat by Sarah Pearse (£4.50)
I love a good mystery when I’m on vacation or just lounging around pretending to be. This book from British author Sarah Pearse is set at a sunny, posh, seaside resort on an island with a seriously sketchy history. It doesn’t take long for the bodies to start piling up, which means you won’t be able to put it down. I bought it ahead of my flight back to London from Chicago and had no idea it was the second book in the Detective Elin Warner Series, but I’ll definitely be picking up the first book now. Not to worry—there’s enough detail at the beginning to get you familiar with the protagonist.
Something to think about …
The island of Maui has been devastated by wildfires and the road to recovery will be long. If you’re looking for a way to help, check out the Maui Strong Fund from the Hawai‘i Community Foundation.
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