Summer, like winter, requires its own proper fashion and beauty etiquette. Whether you’re cruising the beach or headed poolside this season, it’s important to keep it effortless and fun. Say goodbye to your dowdy recession attire. Below are my tips to help make sure you’re a fashion “do” this season and not a fashion “don’t.”

Don’t over-do it with fake spray tans. Do opt for a more natural glow. Not a fan of the fake and bake? The key is finding the right self tanner designed to give you the perfect tan. Summer is the best time to give yourself a great tan but long exposure to the sun isn’t the healthiest. Look out for sunless tanning cream for a gorgeous and flattering glow without the damaging side effects of the sun.

Don’t be a victim of makeup overload. Do keep it simple. Keep makeup from melting off your skin by keeping it light. Foundation is out and tinted face moisturizer is in, at least for the next three months. Replace bright blush for bronzer and dark eye shadows for sheer colors. Try to avoid makeup at the beach and remember to choose bold, colored nail polish. For the best lip coverage, apply shimmery lip-gloss or clear lacquer—red lips are big summer don’t!

Don’t wear barely there clothing. Do sport breezy tops, summer skirts and lightweight dresses. Steer clear of tiny shorts and belly-bearing tops. Do incorporate denim and khaki shorts, summer skirts and baby doll tops. “Be mindful of the length of your hemline; select miniskirts and shorts that hit right below the widest part of your thigh for the most flattering silhouette,” suggests stylebakery.com. Another affordable alternative is the chic “Maxi,” a bohemian inspired dress that hits the floor. It can be worn to the beach or on the weekends. Take into account visible bra straps. Tank tops are nice and cool, but visible bra straps are tacky. Before heading out, make sure to do a bra strap check.

Don’t wear bathing suits in public places. Do wear a cover up or tunic over a bathing suit. Wearing swimsuits under clothes should be avoided in places other than the beach like restaurants or the mall. Keep in mind that swimsuits can be sexy but also fitted. Try to wear a full-coverage suite that fits properly. Beach cover-ups come in a variety of styles and colors, not to mention are a huge hit this season.

Don’t rock unflattering shoes or winter styles. Do wear flat sandals, espadrilles and dressy flip-flops. Store the Ugg boots and leave the ballet flats at home. In its place, sport glam beach to street sandals. Espadrilles and gladiator sandals look great with long skirts and sundresses. Socks with sandals are a huge fashion faux paux for summer (well, let’s just say year round).

Don’t wear excessive jewelry. Do look for key summer accessories. Limit big necklaces and flashy pieces. You can’t go wrong with a chic beach tote, a great beach bag or a straw fedora. No outfit is complete without a cool pair of aviators or retro chic sunglasses.

photo by nathan umstead

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What does sun have to do with it? It’s not a food or drink (not that I’d recommend anyone try downing an 11,000 degree treat) and most stories involving matters of health and sunshine also contain the word cancer – causing, not prevention. But there actually are mega-benefits to sunshine, beyond the happy, colorful glow it sheds on the universe and daunting harmful side effects that yes, we should be aware of and avoid.

For now, let’s focus on the positive. Sunshine promotes the creation of Vitamin D in our bodies. We need Vitamin D in order to absorb calcium, which promotes positive bone health and prevents osteoporosis. It’s also been associated with reduced risk for multiple sclerosis, high blood pressure and certain forms of (oops, I have to mention it) the C-word…cancer. Five to thirty minutes of sunshine is needed to attain your daily does of Vitamin D.

Second and equally important are the emotional perks of sunshine. People who experience warmth and step outdoors to enjoy sunshine and fresh air each day tend to maintain positive attitudes, as well as improved physical health. The more contented we feel, the more likely we are to take care of our bodies by nurturing them with healthy vittles than to eat too little or too many foods that don’t offer much nutritional value.

If you live in climate that offers few sunny rays, a Vitamin D supplement or UV lamp may prove beneficial. If you work indoors and seldom seek fresh air, make it a point to take walks around the neighborhood. Enjoy your lunch breaks at area parks or take hiking or beach trips over weekends and holidays.

If you aren’t sure if you’re getting enough Vitamin D or sunshine, ask a healthcare professional. In the meantime a solid, basic multi-vitamin is a great idea. Even when we eat healthy foods and soak in the sun appropriately, we may have gaps. Multi-vitamins are great insurance policies that can fill them.

Vitamin D is currently the top vitamin deficiency in America, so take this seriously if you feel you may be at risk. A friend of mine was recently prescribed Vitamin D supplements and is now experiencing a “happiness she can’t explain.” Our bodies are complex and sometimes we don’t even know we are lacking in something.

Enjoy the summer, wear sun block, take your vitamins and find fun, healthy summer foods to dine on. You’ll be happier and likely healthier as a result!

Sunshine Waldorf Salad Recipe

Ingredients:
2 – 3 cups fresh pineapple chunks
2 cups sliced celery
1 cup sliced green grapes
½ cup chopped walnut
Light mayonnaise, as desired
juice of one lemon
dash of salt, to taste
Lettuce leaves

Directions: Combine pineapple chunks, celery, grapes and walnuts in a large bowl and toss with lemon juice. Stir in mayonnaise, 1 Tablespoon at a time until the mixture is lightly coated. Serve atop shredded greens or wrapped in large leaves. Enjoy!

photo by Lin Pernille ♥ Photography

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