Kick Off the Summer with these Essentials

This ladderball set will steal the scene of any backyard get together. Outfitted in pretty pastels, this game is perfect to engage in with friends, family, or a block party with neighborhoods. With such an easy-to-play game set in new adorable colors, this was a no brainer for a summer essentials list.

A denim jacket is a quintessential summer piece in your wardrobe. Perfect to throw on over a sundress or cut-offs and tank, a denim jacket will match anything and is perfect for those breezy summer nights. Gap has been known to take care of your denim needs for the past 40 years and the Icon jacket is aptly named for its classic wash and shape.

A classic one-piece swimsuit will get a ton of wear for summer days at the beach or pool. We love this shoulder tie option (in three adorable colors) that perfectly mixes style and comfort. The shape is flattering to all body types, and although cute enough to pose in for pictures, also won’t be slipping and falling off all day

Take a step out of your skincare routine this summer by incorporating this sunscreen tint. In addition to providing SPF 50, it also gets you a multi-protection cover-up perfect for those days that you want to skip the heavy make-up. It also removes any white streaks or oily texture you might receive from normal facial sunscreen.

A great pair of sunglasses is essential for sunny summer days! We love this upgrade to Rayban’s classic aviator shape. The rounded lenses are flattering to almost anyone so watch out if these sunglasses seem to suddenly *disappear* around any friends or family.

An easy (and cute!) picnic blanket is essential for summer. This adorable pink and green patterned version comes compact in an easy to carry pack- so you can sit and enjoy the weather whenever you want! Keep in your car for impromptu beach or park days when the weather is just right.

This compact powder foundation from NARS is the perfect shine-nixer for warmer days. It’s compact and small enough to stow in your purse for easy touch-ups. It also provides a lightweight formula that will cover up any flaws without masking your face. The easiness of powder will leave you with a luminous look for up to 12 hours- perfect for those long summer days.

There is nothing better for summer than a dress you can throw on for multiple occasions while still looking put together. This belted striped shirt dress is this season’s pick. It’s lightweight and stylish and can be dressed up or down as much as you like. Toss on with tennis shoes for weekend errands or a heeled sandal for a backyard BBQ.

A Turkish towel is the perfect combination of towel and blanket that you’re sure to get steady use from this summer. There are endless color options available online. Take to the beach to lay out on or keep by the pool to quickly dry off with. And with this low of a price (plus 4% cash back) why not keep a couple around to do both?

If you haven’t invested in an Apple watch, summer is the perfect time to start. Apple released it’s biggest watch display yet. An easy-to-wear tracker for your everyday activity, it also monitors your heart rate. You can share your activity with friends and use it for personalized coaching or yoga workouts. Runners out there will appreciate new features like cadence and pace alerts. And of course use the Walkie-Talkie, phone call, text message, and music apps all from your wrist.

Float your drinks in style with a flamingo inflatable drink holder. Sure to add fun to any pool party, these drink holders are a cheap and fun gift to bring to any outdoor gathering (or keep for yourself!) They fit almost any cup or drink size so when you’re enjoying a pool party a drink is never too far away.

A sturdy canvas tote is perfect for whatever summer adventures may come your way. Load it up with all your picnic essentials, grill out snacks, or a towel and buckets for a beach day. A great canvas bag is a no-fail for any summer essential list and we’re loving this cream and red-striped version for summer.

A bean bag toss set in fun colors will surely get any backyard party started. This fun competitive game gets an upgrade with a new color-blocked design from Target. Split up into teams and take turns tossing the bean bag. This fun game is casual enough to play with friends while still chatting with a drink in hand.

A great Floppy hat- where sun protection and style come together for a summer essential. We love this fedora style hat from Gap. Throw it on for your beach adventure or top off your outfit for brunch with this cute straw option- because sun protection should go beyond SPF!

What is a pool party without a fun pool float? We love this pineapple floatie for a fresh summer pick, but a pizza slice, unicorn, or popcicle also will be sure to take center stage at the party (cute Instagram not included)! Collect a couple to keep your pool party-ready all summer or pack along to a fun summer outing.

This denim headband is the perfect summer-ready hair accessory. The denim fabric is casual enough to throw on at the beach or dress up for a summer night out. Headbands have been popping up again recently and with hot summer days, they are a cute and functional way to keep your hair out of your face!