As summer reaches its peak, we’ve curated a list of must-haves that will elevate your days during this sunny season. From essential skin care items to fantastical reads, this month’s collection is all about embracing the warmth and joy of summer. Dive in to discover what’s been making our July unforgettable, and find new monthly favorites to make the most of your summer days.
skincare
AMANDA'S FAVORITE
DRxSpectraLite FaceWare Pro by Dr. Dennis Gross
I started using light therapy over five years ago but fell out of love with my device, simply because of its ease of use. I purchased this FSA-eligible (superhero-esque) mask and I am OBSESSED! Welcome back wrinkle and acne fighting benefits, you have been missed.
JENNIFER'S FAVORITE
Regenerist Retinol 24 Night Moisturizer cream by Olay
After listening to a podcast where a plastic surgeon talked about skin care in menopausal years, he suggested using over the counter strength retinol at night because it’s not as strong as the prescription strength. My skin can tolerate this and I love the results!
AMANDA'S FAVORITE
Dry Texturizing Spray by Oribe
Every arsenal of hair products needs a texturizing spray and this one by Oribe is simply the best. It builds volume, adds texture, and absorbes oil, all with a light, flexible hold. No stiffness. No wetness. No stickiness. Just a dry spray without the grit.
JENNIFER'S FAVORITE
Argan Oil Styling Gel by Eco Style
This gel provides maximum hold while taming frizz and is formulated with natural argan oil that layers and seals the hair shaft to maintain moisture. I use this on my curly hair because it doesn’t get cruchy, it’s not too heavy and the argan oil encourages curl.
AMANDA'S FAVORITE
Sunforgettable Total Protection Face Shield Flex by Colorescience
Y’all know I’m a big tinted SPF guy. I was a die-hard Glowscreen user but found out it can clog pores so I switched to Slip Tint. An IG ad convinced me to try this one (SPF 50!) by Colorescience and I think I have found my favorite! So pigmented but light and moisturizing.
JENNIFER'S FAVORITE
Brow Tinting Powder by MinaiBrow
I used to do my brows at the salon while getting my hair colored but salons are getting strict about using amonia based hair color on eyebrows. You can pay estheticians for a tint, but at this price I am happy to apply the paste and have perfect brows for 4-6 weeks.
AMANDA'S FAVORITE
Goji Tarocco Orange Candle by Voluspa
My house is smelling like a freshly squeezed summer sanctuary with the aroma of this fabulous candle. Goji, mango and orange? Sign me TF up! And let us not ignore the beautiful crimson jar the candle is housed in, as vibrant as the fragrance itself.
JENNIFER'S FAVORITE
Ysatis Eau De Toilette by Givenchy
This scent has 30 years of memories for me! The powdery scent reminds me of the woman I worked for as a nanny at 18 and also my mother-in-law. Two very influential women in my life. Never underestimate the power of an aroma to transport you in time.
AMANDA'S FAVORITE
501 Original Jeans by Levi's
If you don’t have a pair of 501 Originals in your closet, are you even living?! Finding a vintage pair will always rein supreme, but this Ojai Luxor Last wash is irresistible. They mold to your body the more you wear them and can easily be dressed up and down. Perfection!
JENNIFER'S FAVORITE
Faux Suede Skirt by Luxe Dress
Here in our part of the woods, July means Rodeo time and I think this chic faux suede skirt would be just the right amount of cowboy chic paired with boots, a white men’s shirt and a hat! Yee-haw baby!
AMANDA'S FAVORITE
Vegan Blaire Fisherman Sandals by Dr. Martens
I’ve got a pair of Docs for every season and these vegan leather sandals are perfect for the warmer months. They add an edge to whatever outfit you wear them with and they are comfortable! I love pairing them with a little white babydoll dress.
JENNIFER'S FAVORITE
Stetson Casey Boot by Banana Republic
There is something so timeless about a pointed toe cowboy boot. I know you barn girls might disagree and prefer the square toe boot, but I’ve had these boots for over 30 years and they look goooood on me. I will sport them with my suede fringe skirt for Rodeo season!
AMANDA'S FAVORITE
Rainbow Tile Bracelets by Amazon
Say “hello” to your new favorite summer accessory! A dupe for the much more expensive Roxanne Assoulin bracelets, these vibrant tiles will add a fun pop of color to all your summer outfits. Wear one or stack all three. My favorite is to layer with gold bracelets.
JENNIFER'S FAVORITE
Silk Rose Flower Choker by Amazon
This four pack is a bargain and if you are looking to elevate any outfit, this is an easy accessory to add to any outfit. Sex and the City had an entire season where Carrie had a silk flower somewhere on her outfit in almost every episode. So bring out your inner Carrie.
AMANDA'S FAVORITE
nodpod BODY by nodpod
I love the stress-relieving properties of weighted blankets, but had never been able to use one because feeling trapped was too overwhelming. Enter nodpod BODY! This offers the weight on your torso, but keeps your arms and legs free. It’s perfect!
JENNIFER'S FAVORITE
AG1 by Athletic Greens
AG1 is designed to replace multiple supplements by covering nutritional gaps with a comprehensive blend of nutrients. Just one tasty scoop each day helps meet your foundational health needs.
AMANDA'S FAVORITE
Picture Light by Amazon
I have a beautiful antique painting that I wanted to shine some extra light on, so I went searching for a picture light to hang above it. As a renter, I didn’t want anything hard-wired. This rechargeable alternative is absolutely perfect and just what I was looking for.
JENNIFER'S FAVORITE
Air Fryer by COSORI
I’m kinda late to the air frying game but I just ordered this bad boy on Amazon during Prime Days and I’m excited to try it. I have friends who love the convenience and how their foods taste. I’m most excited about making crispy brussel sprouts!
AMANDA'S FAVORITE
Corn and Arugula Summer Salad by Amanda Auker
I just shared this recipe here on the blog and it is truly my go-to salad for summertime. There’s something special about its balanced simplicity. It’s refreshing, full of vibrant ingredients, and I promise you will want to keep making it all summer long. YUM!
JENNIFER'S FAVORITE
Pumpkin Seeds by It's Just
Talk about a pure nutritional powerhouse! These raw pumpkin seeds, AKA pepitas, are a natural source of essential nutrients (protein, fiber, and healthy fats). They’re a guilt-free snack that can boost your daily nutrition effortlessly. I keep a small container in my car to snack on all the time.
AMANDA'S FAVORITE
The Empyrean Series by Rebecca Yarros
Great Scott!! This 2-soon-to-be-3-book series is absolutely INCREDIBLE! Fourth Wing had me up until the wee hours of the night and Iron Flame has left me craving more. Onyx Storm has been pre-ordered and January 21st simply can’t come fast enough!
JENNIFER'S FAVORITE
Three Dark Crowns by Kendare Blake
My sister turned me onto this book and raved about it. It’s the first book in a dark and inventive fantasy series about three sisters who must fight to the death to become queen. I love picking up a new series where I can get invested in the characters.
AMANDA'S FAVORITE
Anyone But You
This movie had me literally LOL-ing in the greatest way possible. It’s cute, hilarious, and the storyline keeps you hooked from the very beginning. It gave Paradise Problem (my June favorite read) vibes that I loved. Thank you Bea and Ben for the love and laughs!
JENNIFER'S FAVORITE
Twisters
I don’t know about you but I’ve been hankering for a good theater experience, which seems few and far between these days. This was the perfect edge-of-your-seat summer movie. I loved the original, and figured that this would have entertaining action-packed scenes!
AMANDA'S FAVORITE
Palm Royale
Came for the cast intrigue and stayed for the costumes and sets! Kristen Wiig, Ricky Martin, Laura Dern, Josh Lucas. Say less. Based on the novel Mr. & Mrs. American Pie, the flamboyant series is a feast for your eyes with its retro fashion and ornate decor.
JENNIFER'S FAVORITE
Suits
I picked this show as an earlier favorite, but the ninth and final season is shaping up to be a great end to an engaging series. The premise: big-time Manhattan corporate lawyer Harvey Specter and his team are launched into a play for power when a new partner joins the firm.
AMANDA'S FAVORITE
Welcome To Florida by Artikal Sound System
I was in love with this album when if first came out a couple years ago and have had it playing on repeat for the last month after recently seeing the band live. “Pull Me Close” makes me dance and “When I Wanna” is my summer vibe. What can I say? I love A.S.S..
JENNIFER'S FAVORITE
Which Brings Me To You (Original Motion Picture Score) by Spencer Hutchings
This was my June Favorites movie pick but the soundtrack left me breathless. It’s my go-to album I listen to at work. It has this nostalgic chill vibe that I think you will love!
Every month we bring you our personal favorites, but the conversation doesn’t need to stop there! We would love to hear about the items you have been obsessed with this month (from fashion to food and books to beauty) in the comments section below. Haven’t gotten enough of our recommendations? There is more to explore in our Favorites, from Amazon Essentials to additional monthly round-ups.
xoL&M
