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Sunny Day Survival Kit
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items Your go-to lineup for handling sunny days without the meltdown — everything you need to stay cool, hydrated, and just the right amount of put-together while the sun does its thing.
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Cozzies for the beach, or the poolside.
Sandals, because your toes need to breathe too.
Staying cool and comfortable.
Hydration essentials.
Skin protection & care.
Freshening Up On-the-Go.
Cozzies for the beach, or the poolside.
I grew up referring to swimwear as costumes. It may be a South African thing. Here are some that I like. Especially if you're in your late 30's like me and don't quite have the confidence to rock a thong in public.
This one's great if you want to show some belly, just not all of it.
Alessandra Printed Bikini Bottom
A simple black cozzie is timeless, chic, and flattering on all shapes and sizes. I especially like the square neckline on this one.
ASOS DESIGN Revenge sculpting square neck swimsuit in black
If you prefer a bit of extra support for the girls, this underwire bikini is a great choice. It’s super cute, and you can’t go wrong with a little polka dot.
Peek & Beau bikini with trim detail in black & white polka dot | ASOS
If you're more of a vintage style kind of gal, and we're talking polka dots, then this two-piece is a classic.
Unique Vintage Red White Dots Monroe High Waist Swim Bottom
Okay, I think this one might be my favourite!
Unique Vintage Light Pink Stripes & Lemons Ruched & Ready Swim Top
Definitely another one of my faves.
Teal Twisted High Waist Swim Set
Sandals, because your toes need to breathe too.
Here are some of my favourites.
Absolute must-have sandal. Durable, timeless, and comfortable.
Soft Footbed Arizona Suede Mink by Birkenstock
Perfect for the day or for a night out.
Buckled platform sandals
For those who like a little hight.
BIGMONA Black Leather Women's Platform Sandal
I love a pop of colour.
Pemba Jelly Flip Flops
Where I’m from, we call these “slops,” but for the sake of this list we’ll go with flip-flops. These ones are great because you don’t have to worry about getting them wet.
Xuhal 3 Pcs Women Girls Slim Flip Flops
Staying cool and comfortable.
For when the sun is doing the absolute most, and you’re just trying to exist without melting. Breezy clothes, shade-providing heroes, and little lifesavers that keep you cool(ish) and unbothered.
You can’t go wrong with a kimono-style cover-up. I’m especially into these silky ones—particularly the pink leopard print.
Kimono-style cover-ups.
I love this flowy blouse!
White Sun Print Blouse | River Island
This emerald green kimono top is so pretty. I love a matching set.
Green Embellished Kimono Top | River Island
These 100% cotton drawstring pants are definitely one of my favourites too.
Navy Crinkle Drawstring Wide Leg Trousers | River Island
I love a bit of embroidery. These are gorgeous!
Black Broderie Shirt | River Island
I love a good pair of palazzo pants.
Viscose-Linen Palazzo Pant | Banana Republic
You can't go wrong with a timeless, summer mini dress. I'm loving this linen dress.
Linen Strappy Empire-Waist Mini Dress | Banana Republic
A simple spaghetti strap cami is a summer must-have.☀️
Hold Me Cami
I really like these simple, earth-toned linen shorts. They’re easy to throw on and look great paired with a white tee or a crop top.
ANRABESS Women's Linen High Waisted Shorts
Can’t forget the nifty little portable fan to pop in your handbag.
Gaiatop Mini Portable 3-Speed USB Fan Pink
A cooling towel is perfect for when you're out and about, whether you're heading out for a hike or off to the beach.
N-Rit SIngle Layer Cooling Ice Towel
Hydration essentials.
The key to surviving the heat is staying hydrated.
An insulated water bottle that keeps your ice water cold all day is an absolute must.
Insulated Stainless Steel Water Bottles – Stanley 1913
Electrolytes help keep your body hydrated and your energy up, especially on hot, sunny days. Perfect for refuelling after a sweat session, a long walk, or just beating the midday heat.
Amazon.com: Electrolytes Powder Packets 50 Pack
Skin protection & care.
The essentials for keeping your skin happy in the sun — protection, hydration, and a little post-sun TLC.
This is one of my go-to essentials. I never step outside without a high SPF.
Sun protection | Sunscreen and after sun | Eucerin
If you do end up getting a bit sun-blasted, an aloe vera–based after-sun lotion is a must.
Aloderma 99% Pure Aloe Vera Gel 1.5oz Tube
SPF lip balm—because your lips can get sunburned too.💋🌞
Sun Bum SPF 30 Lip Balm 3 Flavor Pack
A facial mist is perfect for a quick refresh when the heat starts getting to you. A few spritzes instantly cool your skin and bring a little life back to your face on a hot day.
Summer Fridays Jet Lag Skin Soothing Mist
Oil blotting papers are a lifesaver when the heat turns your face a little shiny. Just a quick dab helps soak up excess oil and freshen things up. ✨
High-Performance Oil Absorbing Sheets - 150ct
A rich body butter to keep skin soft and hydrated after a day in the sun. Bonus: The Body Shop is cruelty-free.
Body Butters & Body Creams | Body Care | The Body Shop
A good hat keeps you shaded and cooler—because when it comes to sun damage, prevention is key. ☀️🧢
Hats for Women
A good pair of polarised sunnies is a must. You can’t go wrong with a classic pair from Ray-Ban. 🕶️
Sunglasses for Women | Ray-Ban® GLOBAL store
Freshening Up On-the-Go.
Little essentials that help you feel fresh again after a hot day out — quick fixes for when the sun and sweat start catching up with you.
Wet wipes are a quick fix for sticky hands, sandy feet, or just a general freshen-up when you’re out and about.
goodwipes Flushable Travel Wipes, 108ct
A good deodorant is a hot-weather essential. Especially when your pits start getting a little sweaty. 💦
Uriage Sensitive Skin Deodorant, 24H Odor
Dry shampoo is a quick fix for when your hair needs a refresh, but you don’t have time for a wash. It helps absorb oil, adds a bit of volume, and brings your hair back to life on hot, busy days. 💨✨
Batiste Dry Shampoo Vanilla Souffle 3.81oz
I’m a big fan of fragrances, especially body mists—they’re easy to carry and give you a quick boost of fresh, good-smelling confidence on the go.
Victoria's Secret Bombshell Fine Fragrance Mist 8.4oz
Claw clips are an absolute essential. These flower ones are cute, fun, and perfect for summer. 🌸
South Beach flower claw clip in lilac
Beach / Outdoor Must-Haves
A beach towel is an obvious must. Perfect for drying off, lounging, or claiming your spot in the sun. 🏖️
Tiger Cotton Beach Towel
Now we can’t have the beach towel without a comfy cushion. These retro ones from Anthropologie are some of my favourites.
Outdoor Pillows & Decor
And a cooler bag to keep your drinks and snacks chilled all day. An essential for long beach days. 🧊👜
Hazel Cooler Bag
And finally, you can’t skip a classic beach umbrella. I’m really into these canvas cotton canopy styles—they add that extra layer of sun protection while still looking cute.
The Wilderness Premium Umbrella