Spring is now upon us! Trees are budding, flowers are blooming, skies are blue, the sun is shining, and everything is wonderful because winter is gone. It’s like life begins again. But I’m not trying to get too deep here.
I love spring for many reasons: the colors, the weather, the seasonable fashion (although I’m no fashionista), the birds in the air, eating dinner outside, being outside in general… I could go on. I’m just a much more pleasant person once spring is here. Do you find that you’re much happier when spring hits?
If spring isn’t your season, have no fear. Summer is on the way. If that’s not your season, either, then… I got nothing for you. Stick it out? Spring isn’t that bad.
Like with every other season, I’ve got my absolute must-haves for getting through the spring season. So, in the spirit of my winter essentials post…
Here are some of my absolute spring essentials!
Pro tip, these are also great for summer, too. Keep them handy!
Sunglasses // I have lighter-colored eyes, so sunglasses are a must for me. Some people can get away without wearing them, and I don’t understand how they do it. Why not just wear them as fashion accessories? My go-to pair is a set of Maui Jim “Wiki Wiki” glasses. They’re polarized and well-balanced, and don’t make me look bug-eyed like all the old $15 pairs I used to think looked cool.
Cute Sunglasses Straps // Or “croakies,” as some people call them. I used to think these were the tackiest things in the world, and then I gave them a chance. They’re so convenient! And you can surely find at least one set that will go with almost any outfit you put together.
Lip Balm // Keep ’em soft and healthy with reliable lip balm. I always have lip balm tubes in multiple places: my purse, work bag, bathroom, night stand… basically wherever I think I might need it. I’m a lifelong fan of Chapstick, but recently branched out to EOS (I know, so behind on the times). Both are great!
Nail Polish // Open-toed shoes season means lots of sandals and flip-flops, which means I like my toes to look nice. I’m awful with self-pedicures, so I’m usually willing to pay the pros to do it for me. The salons usually have colors I like, but I discovered “Bikini So Teeny” by Essie and loved it so much that I bought a little bottle myself so I’ll always have it. It’s perfect for the summer when I’m not in the mood for pink or coral.
Allergy meds // Spring allergies are the worst. Mine aren’t so bad, but they’re just annoying enough to drive me crazy. I usually keep a supply of over-the-counter, 24-hour-relief allergy medicine in my cabinet for when the sniffles and runny nose strike. That usually does the trick.
Koozies // You know, the cute drink huggers that keep your cans and bottles from sweating? I credit my boss for fueling my obsession with these. I started collecting them as cute “souvenirs” from my favorite restaurants and tourist spots; not to mention some designers and brands make some really cute ones, too.
Durable Water Bottle or Tumbler // I have a very strange obsession with fancy or cute water bottles. I’m not sure why. But I do find that I drink more water when I drink it from a cute bottle. And when the weather warms up, the need to stay hydrated increases. Drink up, me hearties! (That’s my one and only attempt to talk like a pirate. Sorry.)
Seersucker // Every person who calls himself or herself a Southerner needs at least one seersucker item in his or her closet. It’s light and breathable, but durable and super classy. Last year I bought a great pair of seersucker shorts (on sale!) at Vineyard Vines, and they are probably my favorite pair of shorts I own. Recently I bought this adorable seersucker dress (in blue) and I wore it for Easter brunch (aka, as soon as I was seasonally allowed to wear it). Southern belle status: check.
I’m always so happy when spring comes around. I feel like a whole new person. And having my spring essentials in hand (or in my closet) makes it that much better.
Love you, spring.
What are your best and favorite spring essentials?