Top 11 Beach Essentials
By Briana, age 16, Pennsylvania
Sunglasses
It is definitely crucial for a girl to always have an awesome pair of shades! Whether they're round and bright or square and sparkly, any hott pair of shades is a definite MUST HAVE when going to the beach! Not only do they look cool, they're good for your health too. They help to block UV rays from damaging your eyes. How cool is that?!
Suntan Lotion
A very important thing a girl should always carry when she goes to the beach is the right suntan lotion. As we all know, there are too many different kinds to count! So how do you find the right one for you? Here are some tips:If you have fair skin and burn easily, look for a lotion that has a higher SPF (50-80) to keep you from burning. If you're looking for a nice summer glow, try one with some self-tanner.
If you have darker or tanned skin and don't burn as easily, look for a lotion in the mid-SPF range (15-30) to protect your skin from the sun. If you want a nice tan, try one in the SPF 10-15 range with self-tanner. Be sure to reapply often, especially after swimming or sweating, and hit those places people often overlook, like your ears, the part in your hair, and the tops of your feet.
Flip Flops
One thing that every beach-going girl knows is true - You can NEVER have too many flip flops! One of my favorite beach essentials, it's good to have at least one pair in your summer wardrobe. Whether you choose to have a pair in every color under the sun or just a few basic neutral colors, these shoes will keep your beachy feet happy! Not only do they look super cute with a cover-up or your swimsuit, they also keep you from burning your feet on the hot sand. And they're always great for a quick run up to the boardwalk!
Giant Beach Tote
Another favorite of mine, a giant tote bag, is a cute and convenient beach essential. Its size is great for holding all your smaller essentials (lotion, sunglasses, books, etc.) and it will compliment any outfit. Get a neutral color with several other colors mixed in, and you'll have one bag to go with all your outfits!
Cute Cover-Up
It's always good to have a super cute and stylish cover-up to "cover up" your super cute swimsuit! But you don't have to buy a boring one-piece cover-up. Mix it up with a cute terrycloth dress or a versatile sarong!
The Perfect Swimsuit
The #1 beach style essential is, of course, the perfect swimsuit! No girl should leave home without a way cute suit to "suit" her figure and personality! From super cute mini-bikinis to stylish tank and boy short combos, tons of fun colors and patterns are in style this summer! When swimsuit shopping keep these 3 things in mind:♥ Make sure you love the suit. If you find a suit that is expensive, make sure you're prepared to wear it a lot. After all, we all can't afford to have ten $300 swimsuits!
♥ Make sure you are comfortable. The way it looks is important, but if you feel uncomfortable, you'll look uncomfortable!
♥ Make sure it suits you! Don't buy a suit just because your friends like it. Pick one that YOU like, and then get your friends' opinions. After all, you're the one who has to wear it!
Check out the "Swimwear 2008" article from our May issue to find the perfect style for your shape!
A Good Read
It's always important to be entertained on the beach. After all, you can't constantly tan or be in the water - it's not healthy! So when you're looking for some down time, just pull out a good book. Below are some of my favorites.
Music
It's always fun to have a good mix of music on your iPod or MP3 player when you're on the beach! I know I love listening to music while I'm tanning. It helps me relax and enjoy the serene atmosphere of the beach.A Cute Hairstyle
When you're on the beach, you don't want long lanky hair blowing in your face! Try some cute hairstyles like scrunched beachy waves or a bouncy ponytail! Also, try different hair products to keep your hair at its best!
A Fun Beach Towel
No girl wants to tan her beautiful self on an old dirty beach towel! There are tons of cute beach towels with a huge variety of colors, patterns, and prices that are sure to display your fun personality!
A Fun Attitude!
The number one beach essential is to have a fun attitude! Whether you're going to the beach with your friends or family, go with the intention of having fun! Don't let anyone or anything bring you down. Be confident in yourself and make your trip full of awesome summer memories!!
Beach photos taken in Puerto la Cruz, Venezuela, courtesy of SDM site model Andrea from Michigan.
