Merritt Norris
By Merritt Norris
Summer is officially reaching its peak, but no need to break a sweat, we say. We’ve rounded up a list of this year’s summer staples to help Texans soak up the season in style. From breezy fashion pieces and beauty essentials to the viral gadgets everyone’s talking about, this year’s trends are all about standout style, self-care selects, and game-changing gadgets that elevate everyday moments, according to our seasonal style enthusiast Merritt Norris.
1. Jones Road Beauty Miracle Balm
Jones Road Miracle Balm is your go-to for that summery, effortless glow. This light-reflecting, moisture-rich balm enhances the skin with a soft, dewy finish and can be worn alone or layered over foundation for an instant refresh. Available in 12 versatile shades, it’s perfect for brightening up your cheeks, lips, and anywhere else a little pop of color could be used. $40 at jonesroadbeauty.com.
2. Viva Day Spa + Med Spa
One of the best respites in Austin, when you’re in the Capital City next, is Viva Day Spa + Med Spa. Celebrating its 20th anniversary, Viva was founded by the dynamic duo of sisters Maya and Laurie Aroch, along with their best friend, Shannon Mouser. Want to pursue a quick pick-me-up? It’s here. The spa was created with the belief that a premier spa experience should combine the highest quality, customized services with genuine hospitality in an inviting and relaxing environment. We love not only the medical aesthetic treatments it offers, but also the facials and massages, which have become renowned for their high quality. Staying true to its mission for two decades and reflecting its success, Viva has grown from a single neighborhood spa with just eight employees to one of Austin’s top wellness destinations, now with four locations, 200 employees, and expansion plans on the horizon. We recommend trying the Viva Diva treatment package, which costs $650 and includes a 6.5-hour spa experience featuring services such as a full-body dry brush exfoliation, express foot reflexology, a 60-minute custom designer facial, and deluxe manicure and pedicure, along with lunch, wine, hot tea, and chocolates. Make plans to visit now at Viva Day Spa + Med Spa today.
3. Hermes Oran Sandal
An exemplar of effortless elegance, the Hermes Oran Sandal features Hermes’ signature “H” cutout and a minimalist, timeless design. Available in a multitude of colors and materials, these flats blend comfort with craftsmanship, pairing perfectly with everything from casual to classic. For hours of strolling to a dressed-up night out, these shoes rise to every occasion, making them a must-have in your shoe selection this summer. $840 at hermes.com.
4. Ninja CREAMi 7-in-1 Ice Cream Maker
The viral Ninja CREAMi is truly a game-changer for summer desserts and drinks! It effortlessly transforms frozen bases into creamy ice creams, refreshing sorbets, milkshakes, and more. Just freeze your mix for 24 hours, then churn in minutes to create perfectly customized treats. Whether you’re in the mood for a healthy, low-sugar dessert option or a boozy, refreshing poolside slushy, the CREAMi lets you craft flavors and combinations you won’t find in stores. With seven easy settings and room for your favorite mix-ins, it’s the must-have appliance to keep cool and creative all summer long. $299 at ninjakitchen.com.
5. Colorescience Sunforgettable Total Protection Brush-On Shield
Sick of sticky, greasy sunscreen? Colorescience’s award-winning brush-on powder sunscreen delivers complete protection in a convenient, on-the-go brush. With every swipe, you get SPF 50 defense plus a boost of hyaluronic acid to restore and lock in moisture, along with a powerful blend of antioxidants to nourish your skin. Dermatologist-tested and recommended, this sunscreen comes in four different shades, making it the easy, flawless solution for effortless SPF reapplication all day long. $69 at www.colorescience.com.
6. ALEMAIS Fish Print Lorenza Silk Top
Word on the street is that it’s “Sardine Girl Summer,” and ALEMAIS clearly understood the assignment. Their Lorenza Silk Top features a chic, striped fish-print design that taps perfectly into fashion’s current marine moment. With fish motifs making waves this season, the halterneck top with an asymmetrical hem feels fresh, flattering, and right on trend. A playful nod to seaside style with a sophisticated twist. $390 us.alemais.com.
7. Recess Pickleball Paddles
As pickleball’s popularity continues to rise, Recess Pickleball Paddles combine playful designs with practical, user-friendly features. Made with a durable fiberglass surface, these paddles deliver solid performance for recreational court time, all at a reasonable price point. Designed to satisfy various style preferences, these paddles are perfect for anyone looking to elevate their game without breaking the bank this summer. $52-$98 at recesspickleball.com.
8. EltaMD UV Daily Tinted Broad-Spectrum SPF 40
Good skin days start with great SPF, and the EltaMD UV Daily Tinted Broad-Spectrum SPF is the perfect choice for daily wear, actively moisturizing, and improving the skin. With a sheer tint to help even out skin tones, this lightweight sunscreen is formulated with hyaluronic acid to help reduce the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles. $42 at eltamd.com.
9. Turtlebox Ranger Speaker
From backyard BBQs and patio hangs to weekend adventures, your summer plans deserve to be accompanied by a soundtrack. Turtlebox’s Ranger speaker is their most portable design, making it an easy addition to liven up your warm-weather gatherings this season. This water-, drop-, and crush-proof speaker pairs premium sound with a compact, durable build, so you can take the party anywhere and everywhere. $250 at turtleboxaudio.com.
10. Corazon Playero Hats
Equal parts statement piece and sun protection, Corazón Playero hats are essentially a wearable piece of art. Each hat is handcrafted by artisans, with hours of care and detail poured into every stitch. Sold in a variety of designs, these beautiful beach hats are made from durable palm fiber and meticulously designed to make a statement on a sunny day. Whether you’re lounging poolside or strolling seaside, they’re the perfect accessory for adding a little personality to your summer style. $295-$375 at corazonplayero.com.
