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What are your essential summer products? The dedicated Corporette team—comprising Kat, Elizabeth, Kate, and CorporetteMoms writer Ann—has compiled our top picks, but we are eager to learn about your favorites as well!

Discover Our Essential Summer Products

Kat’s Favorite Summer Essentials

The Versatile Office Shawl

We previously explored this topic and I must say, it’s disappointing to see that many of my beloved summer essentials have vanished from the market. However, one item that has stood the test of time is the office shawl. Although they may not be as prevalent today, I still appreciate their functionality during the warmer months. As I mentioned before,

A) If you’ve layered a blazer over a dress or a lightweight top and still feel chilly, you can easily add a wrap over the blazer. B) It serves as a great way to cover your legs if you’re feeling cold in a skirt. C) It provides length and coverage for your skirts while seated (I elaborate on this further here).

Jockey Slip Shorts for Ultimate Comfort

Thanks to my readers, I discovered Jockey Slip Shorts years ago, and nothing else has matched their comfort level for wearing underneath skirts. I’ve been contemplating trying out the cooling shorts from Thigh Society as well, intrigued by their potential benefits during the hot summer days.

Essential Sunscreen and Sun Protective Shirts

I often joke that I’m somewhat of a vampire due to my diligent approach to sunscreen, hats, and other protective gear. If you’re spending time outdoors, I highly recommend this ponytail-friendly hat from Amazon, alongside a super lightweight zip-up jacket from Uniqlo to keep you protected from the sun.

Effective Bug Protection Solutions

I seem to attract bugs (unfortunately)—I’ve experimented with countless methods to repel them. I find that the Thermacell device is quite effective, and the Bug Bite Thing offers relief after pesky mosquito bites. Did you know that there are “bug light bulbs” designed with a light temperature that repels insects? Additionally, using slow-moving fans can help keep bugs at bay while you enjoy a meal outdoors in peace.

Elizabeth’s Essential Summer Must-Haves

Almay Clear Gel Antiperspirant & Deodorant

Last summer, I encountered an unexpected allergic reaction to nearly every deodorant and antiperspirant I tried. The Donna Karan Cashmere Mist deodorant stick that I loved caused an itchy rash, along with most “natural” and “hypoallergenic” options. Eventually, the only product that worked for me was this clear gel from Almay, which surprisingly keeps me dry and odor-free, especially when paired with the next item on my list.

PanOxyl Maximum Strength Antimicrobial Acne Foaming Wash

If you tend to sweat a lot, incorporating a benzoyl peroxide cleanser into your summer skincare routine could be beneficial. This active ingredient combats bacteria that can contribute to body odor. A couple of times a week, I apply the PanOxyl product to my underarms and let it sit for a few minutes in the shower before rinsing it off for best results.

L’Oreal Paris Collagen Ultra-Light Moisturizing Lotion SPF 30

For years, I have been a devoted user of the Supergoop City Sunscreen Serum, but I recently decided to explore some drugstore alternatives to find more budget-friendly options. I’ve discovered this L’Oreal lotion, which boasts a perfect consistency—not too thick and not too thin—leaving my skin feeling hydrated without a greasy residue. Plus, it’s a fraction of the cost and leaves no white cast!

Megababe Thigh Rescue for Comfort

Summer wouldn’t feel complete without a fresh stick of Megababe Thigh Rescue. I’ve tried numerous solutions to prevent the uncomfortable friction of thighs rubbing together on hot days, and this stick strikes the ideal balance between effectiveness and convenience. I keep one in my bathroom, my work bag, and my handbag—it’s truly that reliable.

The Ordinary Glycolic Acid 7% Exfoliating Toner

This product has gained viral attention over the past year, with influencers and dermatologists praising its versatility. While it’s undoubtedly great for your face, scalp, and armpits, I must emphasize that if you’re not utilizing it on your feet, you’re truly missing out.

Once or twice weekly, I soak a cotton round with this toner and apply it all over my feet to effectively eliminate dead skin. Following that, I apply a thick lotion and put on a pair of cotton socks. I haven’t visited a pedicure salon since last summer, and my heels remain incredibly smooth.

Grampa’s Weeder for Effortless Gardening

This product may seem niche, but it’s one of my most cherished purchases in recent years. It allows you to effortlessly pull out dandelions and other weeds without the need to bend over and dig around. I may spend more time than I should wandering my yard with this tool, but the weed-free grass and overall appearance of my lawn have never looked better.

Kate’s Top Summer Essentials

Clean & Clear Blotting Sheets

I’ve relied on these Clean & Clear blotting sheets for ages, and they become especially useful in the summer when a quick blot can eliminate shine from your T-zone. (They also come in handy before applying sunscreen, ensuring you’re not layering it on oily skin—now if only I could remember to do that consistently.) I tend to stick to the brand name out of habit, but I believe the Top Care version would work just as effectively.

Reflecting on this, I realize I should consider a more environmentally-friendly option, so I’m eyeing these adorable Hello Kitty paper blotting sheets from the Crème Shop, a K-beauty brand available on Amazon. They even come stored in a pocket mirror!

Reflective Car Sunshade for Interior Protection

I recognize that using a car sunshade might seem outdated due to the prevalence of air conditioning in vehicles today, but they are still incredibly effective for keeping the interior cool! Even though it rarely gets hotter than 90 degrees where I live, placing one of these on your windshield makes a significant difference in reducing interior heat. I once owned a fun sunshade, but now I just have a plain solid color one.

Comfortable Driver’s Seat Fabric Cover

Dealing with a scorching hot seat in my car during summer is becoming tiresome, especially since mine has dark leather seats, which tend to heat up quickly. I’ve recently ordered a seat cover to avoid that painful experience when I return to my car. The bonus? It comes in various colors (I chose purple, as it is my favorite color, and I will not entertain any arguments about it).

Protective Tattoo Sleeves for Skin Care

Did you know that your car’s side windows block UVB rays much more effectively than UVA rays and offer less protection than the windshield glass? I learned this a few years ago. Since I have large tattoos on my arms, I want to protect my “investment” (and my skin), so I typically wear tattoo sleeves while driving in the summer. (I’m aware I may look a bit silly, but that doesn’t bother me.) You can also wear them for outdoor sports and gardening!

Uniqlo offers these sleeves as well, along with Coolibar, a brand specializing in sun protection. I recently purchased a pair from Coolibar during a sale. And don’t forget to apply sunscreen on your hands!

Ann’s Essential Summer Picks

Summer is my least favorite season due to the unbearable heat and sticky humidity. Thankfully, the following products help make the season more tolerable:

Sun Bum Kids’ Clear Sunscreen SPF 50

Most kids’ sunscreens tend to be thick and challenging to apply. However, this clear sunscreen lotion has changed the game. My children even ask for it by name!

Sun Squad Scenic Palm Tree Beach Towel

The pool is the only aspect of summer I truly look forward to. I prefer having the loudest, most vibrant beach towel for lounging—quiet luxury is not my style!

UltraSwim Chlorine Removal Shampoo, Swim Formula

In relation to the pool, this chlorine removal shampoo has been my go-to for years. I use it after every swim to maintain soft and manageable hair.

Secret Dry Feel Whole Body Sensitive Deodorant

In preparation for summer, I’m testing out this new whole-body deodorant. With some warm weather travel on the horizon, I hope this will keep me feeling fresh and comfortable from breakfast buffets to my return to the hotel.

Coleman Cooler Quad Chair

My youngest son has developed a passion for T-ball, and a portable folding chair like this one from Coleman has ensured my comfort during all his games and practices. It always lives in the trunk of my car for easy access.

Uniqlo AIRism Sleeveless Top

I have a collection of Uniqlo’s HeatTech tops for winter and a selection of their Airism tops for summer. This moisture-wicking sleeveless top is perfect for layering under your favorite tee or tank.

Explore Our General Favorite Summer Essentials

Protect Your Skin with Sunscreen

Products to Stay Cool During Your Commute

Here are some intriguing products designed to help you cool down or maintain comfort during your commute. Discover more innovative items like these in our Amazon shop! (If you’re dealing with hot flashes or simply want to invest in comfort, check out the Embr Wave cooling bracelet…)

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Lightweight Pants Alternatives to Linen

Stylish Hats for Summer Sun Protection

Some of the hats our readers have loved (as of 2025) include those from Wallaroo and Eric Javets for sun protection; Kat has always favored her basic Adidas hat. This exceptionally popular bucket hat even has a hole for your ponytail! Additionally, check out this clever hat clip for attaching your hat to your bag.

Stock photo via Stencil.