The dog days of summer may be upon us but that doesn’t mean that we have to let the heat and humidity scorch our style! Because with the perfect balance of prevention, preparation and tried and true fashion and beauty products, you can learn how to sizzle without facing a complete summer meltdown. After all, it sure would be a shame to ruin those adorable vacay photos, right?

Water, Water Everywhere… And There’s Still More To Drink!

So where to start? According to experts, the key to summer style survival is hydration. With the heat causing us to perspire more quickly and lose valuable electrolytes, it’s recommended that we go beyond the standard eight glasses of water a day and drink even when we aren’t thirsty. Especially if we are doing anything more physically-active than flipping the pages of our favorite beach read. Also, try incorporating more fruits, vegetables and natural juices for an added nutrition and hydration boost.

Why is hydration so important, you may be wondering? After all, you planned to spend your summer sipping cocktails poolside. Because, as any doctor will tell you, being well-hydrated doesn’t just prevent heat stroke and dehydration (which can lead to cardiovascular problems) but it also increases mental clarity, improves digestion, regulates body temperature, and enhances muscle efficiency. This means, bye-bye bloating and perspiration and hello to a more fabulous, focused version of yourself! I’ll cheer to that!

Supple Summer Skin Solutions

While we’re bragging about H20’s benefits, let’s not forget that it is also the most effective (and FREE!) beauty product out there. Drinking water reduces wrinkles by maintaining skin’s elasticity.  People who drink large amounts of water (eight glasses or more a day) are less likely to suffer from scars and soft lines and they won't show as many signs of aging as those who drink little water.

However, thanks to the sun, air conditioning, exposure to chlorine in swimming pools and saltwater at the beach, your skin probably requires a bit more hydration than plain H20. The best way to keep your epidermis soft and supple is by using gentle soaps for the face and body, especially those with soothing ingredients like chamomile, coconut oil, and shea butter, as well as light-weight moisturizers that are water-based and contain hyaluronic acid, which behaves like a sponge for dry skin.

SPF … Don’t Leave Home Without It!

Speaking of taking care of our skin, in addition to hydration, sunscreen is, perhaps, the most important summer essential. Doctors recommend an SPF of 30 or above and remind us to always be mindful of skin type (especially when it comes to your face), when selecting a sunscreen. For those with dry skin, choose a product with hydrating ingredients like hyaluronic acid or ceramides. Look for sunscreens with a 30 percent complex of hyaluronic acid, a potent hydrator that draws in water and helps plump the look of skin with moisture, and Pentavitin, which helps provide up to 72 hours of hydration, even after cleansing. For those with oily skin, experts suggest sunscreens that have a matte finish like mineral-based products, which help leave skin looking mattified and poreless.

For the rest of your body, there are plenty of sunscreens to choose from. However, if you’re looking to glam up your look, I like to go for a lotion that gives me a little sparkle, especially for outdoor parties or events. Don’t forget, ladies. Sunscreen should be reapplied every two hours, especially after swimming or sweating. Believe me, a sunburn clashes with everything!

Cool, Comfortable and Effortlessly Chic

One of the best ways to beat the heat, and look fabulous doing it, is with the perfectly-curated summer ensemble. When doing so, the key tips to remember are to choose pieces that are breathable, comfortable and light-colored. For day-to-day wear, I tend to opt for linen wide-leg pants and a stylish, light-weight blouse. This way I can easily transition from day-to-night if needed.

For special occasions, I always choose a summery flowy dress that can be paired with either wedges or sandals, depending on the event. And if I am going to be outdoors, I always have my wide-brimmed hat and large sunglasses to protect my face from sun damage … and add a dash of chicness to my look! 

However, you can have the most beautiful (and breathable) outfit on but if your undergarments aren’t summer-proof, your whole look and mood will be as sour as a rainy day at the beach. That’s why, no matter what I am wearing on the outside, I always have on a pair of Her Highness Lace Briefs. Elegantly-designed with four-way stretch lace for maximum comfort, these high-waisted panties are both supportive enough to lend extra coverage yet airy enough to keep you feeling fresh all day … and night!