One of my favorite things about summer is doing a little shopping to liven up my wardrobe while gathering much needed beach essentials. This summer is no different. From traveling to just hanging out at the local beach, here are the items at the top of my list to make sure it is another great (and fashionable) summer.

Great Sandals

You need a great pair of durable sandals for the beach and everyday wear, and the easy slip-on is making a comeback like this one from Crocs. Don’t forget to also get a sexy, strappy pair too! Dress up your sundresses and other summer outfits with a cute pair of sandals like these from Steve Madden. If you want a summer heel, try these trendy rounded heels also from Steve Madden.

A Breezy Sundress

A breezy sundress should be at the top of your list for summertime. Modcloth has a great variety of styles and shapes whether you want something for work or play and anything in between. You can’t go wrong with a feminine, floral pattern. Use your new pair of block heels to help take your look from day to night.  

Fun Sunglasses 

Go for a bold pair of sunglasses this summer. There are so many new, fun shapes and lenses, choose a pair that captures your sense of fun. We love Modcloth for their fun vintage styles.

Sun Loving Hat  

No beach vacation is complete without a great hat. Whether for accessory or to protect your face from those harsh rays, check out Modcloth for the perfect sun hat to complete your look.

Beach Read

When you finally have some free time to laze in the sun, catch up on some good reading. If you are looking for a romance check out The Engagements by J. Courtney Sullivan. Inspired by Mary Frances Gerety, the woman that came up with the slogan – “A Diamond is forever,” and never happened to marry; it details the complicated intricacies of four lives as they face love, commitment and betrayal.

For those in need of a little mystery check out The Cuckoo’s Calling by Robert Galbraith. While the author on the cover is Robert Galbraith, it is actually an alias used by J.K. Rowling. It is a page-turning mystery novel that is just what you need for the beach.

If you prefer a real life inspired book, read The Girls of Atomic City by Denise Kiernan. It is the story of the women that worked on the Manhattan Project which created the first atomic bomb. The book is a deep and detailed look at a unnerving time in American history.

Handmade Beach Bag

Get a beautifully handmade beach bag from Boutique Mexico to carry all of your beach necessities. Boutique Mexico was created by a woman that was raised in Mexico and came to the United States for high school and college. Eventually, she returned to Mexico and found it frustrating that there were so many amazing artisans that could barely support themselves. She started Boutique Mexico to help aide those making local handmade goods and give them a chance for a better life.

Choose from one of the many handcrafted items in beautiful, vibrant colors. They offer a variety of bags, pouches, clutches, jewelry and adorable pom-pom accessories to brighten up your bags.

I was provided a bag by Boutique Mexico however my opinions remain my own.