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Summer is here and it’s time to round up all of your sunny season necessities. Since our 2020 social calendars were less than packed, we have a whole lot of catching up to do in Summer 2021 (hi, we are ready). From weddings to birthdays to weekend getaways, your calendar is likely filling up fast, so there’s no time to waste. That’s why we’ve curated a list of fashion, beauty, and Insta-worthy must-haves to make this one your best season yet. From a timeless one-piece swimsuit to travel-ready playing cards to entertain you and your crew, these are the  summertime essentials to snag now–and have ready when your bestie calls to tell you her parent’s beach house is open for the weekend.

1. Sun Hat

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This cute bucket hat is here to protect your face from the harmful rays of the sun in the most fun way. While we love a straw beach hat, this one folds up so it’s easy to travel with.

2. Woven Straw Bag

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A good bag is stylish and versatile: From the beach to brunch in the city or the farmers market, a straw tote is perfect for carrying around your summertime essentials. It’s big enough to hold a towel for the beach, but can still easily tuck under the table during bottomless brunch.

3. Retro Oversized Sunglasses

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Cute sunglasses are always a necessity, but especially in summertime. Oversized ’70s-inspired shades are super glam and this season, the extra-large styles are especially hot. In chic brown tortoise with squared-off edges, these statement-makers will go the distance well beyond summer.

4. Reusable Water Bottle

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Staying hydrated is very important, especially when it’s over 80 degrees. This *cute little* (cue the Alexis Rose voice and hands) reusable water bottle is going to be glued to your hand this summer. From the gym to taking your Zoom meetings outside, it’ll ensure you’re always hydrated. Not only is this bottle reusable, but it also keeps your beverages cold for up to 24 hours.
Pro tip: Buy two–one for water and one for a tasty mixed drink at the beach.

5. Sunless Tanning Lotion

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We all love a glowy summer tan, but skin damage? Not so much. Of course, sunscreen is a must when you’re out and about, but Coola’s sunless tanning formula will give you the bronzed tan you’re going for, without having to expose yourself to the sun. Not only does it provide an even glow, it’s formulated to help firm your skin!

6. Sleek One-Piece Swimsuit

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A sophisticated one-piece swimsuit can go virtually anywhere. In classic black, a scoop neck style can be worn to the beach or the pool and as a bodysuit: Just pair this timeless essential with cutoff shorts, jeans, a skirt, or even a strappy jumpsuit, romper, or overalls and you’ve got an instant street-ready outfit.

7. Pool Float

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Cool pool floats are summertime essentials for kids and grown-ups alike. From the beach to the pool—or really anywhere you can capture a cute photo for the ‘gram—this heart float is going to be a big hit. If you have any bachelorette parties this year, you’re going to want to take this one along. The bride is going to love framing herself in the heart with friends and taking a million photos, of course.

8. Petal Nipple Covers

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With all of the backless, strapless, and plunging styles out for summer you’re going to want some no-show concealers in your drawer to help hide the nips. We’re not all as confident as Samantha from Sex and The City (remember that episode where she intentionally wore hard nipples?), so sometimes a little discretion is necessary.

9. Cute Cover-Up Pants

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Show off your swimsuit while still staying covered when you step out of the pool or beach zone. A pair of cover-up pants are probably the most versatile summer piece you can own: From the beach to the bar, you can easily dress these up or down.

10. Convertible Mask/Sunglasses Chain

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This chic sunglass chain is the perfect summer accessory. It adds a touch of glam and also ensures that when your sunnies are off your face, they’re not getting scratched in your bag. When you’re not rocking your sunglasses, use it as a mask chain. If you’re heading to a public area that requires you to put your mask on and off, you wont need to dig around to find it.

11. Summer Sweater

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Every babe needs a go-to lightweight layer for strolls on the beach, breezy dinners al fresco, boat rides, and overly air-conditioned offices and restaurants. An open-weave sweater can even double as a chic, sexy swim cover-up. Needless to say, keeping a cute knit at the ready is always a good idea in the summer.

12. Travel-Ready Playing Cards

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If you’re looking for a little pick-me-up or entertainment at the beach, these playing cards are perfect to toss in your tote bag. They don’t take up much room and will provide hours of fun while you sip on your White Claws. The Feel Your Best Pink Playing Card Deck features playing cards with encouraging messages, advice, and sayings that will immediately boost your mood.

13. Satin Scarf

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Whether you wear it as a hair scarf (we’ve got some ideas for that), tied around on your wrist, neck, or bag strap, a satin scarf is a multi-tasking must-have for summer. Adding this essential to your look, especially in a fun print, is one of the easiest ways to instantly elevate any outfit.

14. Light Blue Nail Polish

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Light blue is one of our favorite nail colors for summer. If you’re looking to brighten up your hands and toes, you’re going to love Essie’s Bikini So Teeny Light Blue. Even if you get your nails done at the salon, you’ll want to bring your favorite polish with you so that you can easily touch up any chips. This nail polish is chip resistant, but if you’ve ever spent the day literally sinking your toes into the sand, you know it can be a battle to keep that summer pedicure looking perfect.

15. Picnic Blanket

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Summertime is all about soaking up the sunshine and enjoying the great outdoors. Keep this round throw blanket handy for everything from picnics to beach days and more: Just roll it up and stow it in the trunk of your car or your summer tote.  Bonus: The vibrant color and playful print make it an ideal background for sunbathing selfies!

Which summertime essentials are you buying? Show us on Instagram @lulus using #lovelulus–and score more hot-weather styles from our Summer Fashion shop!