Summer Style Essentials Under $50

It’s hard not to get vacation envy during the summer months. For the past few weeks, I’ve been dreaming of an island getaway. I’m seeing all of my Insta-friends post photo after photo of their Caribbean adventures, and I can almost feel the sun on my face and the pina colada in my hand…until I wake up from my daydream and realize I’m sitting at home in my pajamas watching Netflix. I’m not complaining, though! I love my time at home, but it’s nice to have a change of pace every so often to mix things up!

SHOP THE LOOK:

Dress: Kohl’s (size down, comes in 2 other patterns) | Shoes: Kohl’s (runs 1/2 size big, also comes in baby blue & black) | Clutch: unavailable, but this Marley Lilly version is identical! | Hosiery: Hanes Silk Reflections Sunkissed Ultra Sheer c/o | Bracelet: Kendra Scott | Hair: Luxy Hair c/o | Lips: Pixi Pink

While we probably won’t be able to squeeze in a trip in the next few months, my husband and I do take mini “staycations” throughout the summer. Every few weeks, we’ll make a pact to stay away from electronics and our normal routine. We’ll drive to a new restaurant, take advantage of a local show, or visit a nearby town that we haven’t been to before. While we’re technically still close to home, it feels so much more relaxing when we’re not glued to the TV or stuck in our normal routine!

I always make an effort to get a little dolled up for our adventures. On most weekends, I’m in a t-shirt and jeans, so I try to make our stay-cation dinners special. Taking the time to put on a nice dress and a fancy lipstick instantly transforms my mood. While I do take the time to plan a fun look, I’m not going to spend hours on fake tanning, shaving, and my usual special event grooming routine. I want to look cute…with minimal effort. That’s where my Hanes Sunkissed Sheers come in. I know what you’re thinking: pantyhose…in the summer? As someone who suffers from disgustingly pale leg syndrome, these things are my best friend for maintaining a polished summer style.

I simply slip on a pair when I’m wearing a cute dress that shows my legs, and it’s like instant Photoshop. My bruises, veins, and discolorations are hidden, and the sheer fabric gives a subtle tan. It’s honestly brilliant! Unless you’re really close to my legs, I don’t think anyone would even notice they’re pantyhose. Plus, they’re super comfortable, so you’re not tugging at the waistband all night. I’m stocked up in three different colors, so I’ll have a pair for every stage of my summer tan. While the Hanes Sunkissed Sheers are definitely a stay-cation essential, they’re a year-round trick to help me look pulled together in seconds! If you’re looking for a way to smooth your legs and/or fake a tan, take the time to try a pair out for yourself and let me know what you think!

What are your stay-cation style essentials?