Every time a new summer rolls around, I always say to myself, “I need some change, I want to try this!” As I get older, I also get way more spontaneous combustion within my step. Therefore, I am within the right mindset to try new things and just go for it. This is one of the huge benefits of social media, being able to see a bunch of cool things. Having all access to buy things, or learn how to do something yourself. I have so many things I want to try, but here are some of the neatest hodge-podge of things I found for the summer of 2017!
1. One-piece bathing suits
These started to make a small comeback last summer season, and are now in full-throttle. A lot of the styles I have come across in stores right now have major cutouts and designs that show some skin. Here is one from Aerie that I actually purchased myself, for only $30!
2. Denim overalls
I will admit that I am hesitant to try, just because it’s hard enough for me to find regular denim shorts to fit me. However, I will give them a chance in the fitting room next time I go shopping. You can find a cute and inexpensive pair at Charlotte Russe, like these ones!
3. Block heels
These come off as fun, but still have a touch of professional to them. The fun comes from the chunky square heel it stands on, the professional, because it’s a heel still. I am attending a conference in New York City this summer, and these seem to be appropriate for the occasion. Believe it or not, Bon-Ton probably has the best selection of all types of shoes. These Michael Kors heels are to-die-for. They are on the more pricey side, but download Retail Me Not on your phone and you can usually find a good coupon (or the ones that come in the mail in their catalogs).
4. Light makeup routines
I decided to try this for myself because I get up to get ready for work at 4:30 in the morning… I’m a nanny and watch 8 and 11-year-old boys who do not care what my face looks like. When I get home from work, if I am going out somewhere, I typically stick to a very natural looking face because the recent heat and humidity will melt off a fully-caked face anyway. As much as I LOVE playing with all of my makeup, I have been doing very minimal things. Concealer is a must for me because, well I’m always tired! I can get away without filling in my brows, but they are pretty bare (thanks junior high me for over-plucking). If I do fill them in, I press lighter than usual and I do not highlight around the edges or on my brow-bone. Instead of using my matte liquid foundation, I dust on a little matte powder finish if I have more than a few blemishes. I’ll add mascara to open up my eyes, and some white eyeshadow on my lids, then maybe some blush. Trust me, your face will thank you. As long as you keep up with your usual face-cleansing and moisturizing, it will feel great.
5. Hair switch-up
I am dying to do something with my head. I just had all of my fried dead-ends chopped off, and lost a good 3 inches, so that’s short for me. I am seriously considering a long-bob cut, and getting a semi-blonde balayage done. Pantone colors are also huge for this summer, which I would totally use for a back-up plan if I chicken out with putting bleach in my hair.
6. New hairstyles
It's summer, it’s hot, you want your hair out of your face. You want it down, but it’s just too hot. How about settling for half-up, half-down? A half-up bun with braids is the perfect style to settle with. I have yet to master the braid part, but I wear the half-up bun quite often. Space buns are also huge right now, and I will definitely be trying them at least once this summer!
7. Playing the ukulele
Maybe I’m just biased because I play… But it’s literally my favorite thing to do! Uke’s just have such a summer vibe to them, because it’s a Hawaiian thing and that’s obviously a tropical location. They are also super easy to learn if you take some time to sit down with them and listen to their unique sound. It’s always good to buy a cheaper one to start out with, then buy a nicer one when you get better! I have this one from Guitar Center, and it sounds so pretty!
Many more trends to come, happy fidget spinning my friends!
