Hot or Not: Keeping Your Cool in Summer

By Kelly LaVaute

As we approach the dog days of summer, "keeping cool" takes on two meanings: looking stylish *and* avoiding the inevitable, uninvited, ever-icky back sweat. Yeah, I said it. Don't try and act all insulted and indignant ("who, ME?!") - you know exactly what I'm talking about.

While we can't sit poolside dabbing at your perspiration and feeding you grapes this summer, Eidia Lush has taken the time to compile some of the hottest (pun intended) tips, tricks and products to help you still look fresh even while standing on black asphalt at high noon in August.

 

1. Skin

It's common sense, but keep it simple! Make up drips, smears and cakes. And if you over-do it, you'll end up looking worse than if you just skipped it altogether. Start with sunscreen - tans are pretty, but leather is better on your belt. Good concealer to even things out and a light mineral powder will keep your shine down. And if you promise to keep your eye products waterproof, I won't mention back sweat again.

2. Textiles

Obviously, while less clothing may be cooler, we can't all go naked to work. Not everyday, anyway. But have fun - show off your gorgeous gams (and soon, your new Eidia Lush heels!) with fun skirts and summer dresses. Don't get too tight - loose fabric will let your skin breathe and let breeze in. Cotton and linen are not only appropriate in summer, they're the coolest of all fabrics. And for everybody's sake - skip the pantyhose. If you're a working girl, keep a lightweight, neutral-colored cardigan around to cover up your sleeveless shoulders when The Suits come around.

3. Hair

You trying to tell me you can keep it smooth and sleek on days with 90% humidity? Didn't think so. We all need some help in this department. There are tons of frizz fighting products on the shelves - they're not even that expensive - you can pick Suave's attempt at anti-frizz from any drugstore for under $4. Give your locks a good condition in the shower and rinse with cold water (locks the hair cuticle in place). Dry slowly and in pieces with a round brush to keep it tame. If all else fails, tuck it back in a low, sleek, side-swept bun. Resist the urge we all encounter before the leaves start to fall - chopping all your hair off isn't always the best idea, eh?

4. Accessories

This is your accessories' time to shine! Less clothing makes more room for flair. Cute sundress? Keep it simple with some romantic, dangle earrings. Night out? Pile it on! Chunky necklace and a flashy ring make your old little black dress brand new again. If you're feeling crazy, you could even get some ice jewelry, although we cannot guarantee the longevity outside of a walk-in freezer. Simple capris and a tank? Get a metallic belt to add some flair. Consider a colorful headband to keep your hair back. And let's be honest - what else is summer good for if you can't get some brand new sunglasses? If you lose them all the time, go for some inexpensive basics. If you keep good care of them, make a statement with this season's hottest shades.

And while it won't keep you cool, splurging on a pedicure is always one of summer's top priorities. Change things up and show off your piggies in a nail polish color you've never had before. And around here, we really must insist - if you don't have your Eidia Lush kicks on, your toes better be lookin' beautiful.

Comments

[Matt LaVaute]

I have learned that eating spicy wings is not always the best idea when it is hot.

[Nicole Tongson]

Good advice Matt. I'm guessing you learned this the hard way?