summer heat survival guide

After last week's heatwave in most of the states, it seemed only fitting to create a list on how to survive this heat fabulously and stylishly!  Here are a few tips that have been getting me through this hot and sticky summer:

1.) Easy, fresh, no-cook recipes for the days when it's just too hot to cook or bake. These are some great suggestions for light yet fulfilling lunches and dinners.

2.) Fake a breeze with a stylish hand fan. I got this one as a gift from my friend Val when she came back from Spain. It fits into a purse quite nicely and it looks so chic once you whip it out.

3.) Keep your body spray/perfume in the refrigerator. The cool spritz will only last for a few seconds, but it's very refreshing while it lasts! And rumor has it that the formula will last longer when kept in cool, dark places.

4.) Carry antibacterial or baby wipes with you. If I'm feeling icky and don't have the option to take a shower, these are the next best thing to cooling down and cleaning up in a pinch.

5.) Your makeup may be melting off your face, but if your hair looks cute, no worries! One of my fave beauty gurus, Kandee Johnson, shows you this super easy knot that takes under a minute to do (I tried it. It really does take under a minute). For some other quick and cute hairstyle tutorials, look here. And for you short-haired ladies...well, you're just lucky during this time of year.

6.) Wear light, breathable fabrics like cotton and linen.  Or try clothes made with organic bamboo fiber.  Not only is it sustainable, but the fabric is well-ventilated and absorbs sweat almost instantly.  It is also said to keep you 2-3 degrees cooler. You can find bamboo products here and here.

7.) I got this one from Real Simple's current isssue: Place an ice cube on the pulse point of your wrist and it will slowly drop your body temperature.  

How have you been surviving the summer so far?

-jillian m.