Memorial Day Weekend is around the corner and the temps are steadily rising, signaling the arrival of our favorite season. From dating to travel, we’ve got the scoop on making this summer one to remember.
As it gets warmer, the skirts get shorter. And don’t forget about that bikini area! Sisters love the Gillette Venus Embrace Razor System, $13, Walgreens.com for getting rid of unwanted hair. Remember, you want to make sure that your gams are smooth as silk when that special someone touches your legs on all those hot dates.
You’re finally able to put those boots away and show your toes in a pair of sexy strappy numbers. Why not switch up from your normal French pedicure with a splash of color? We like the orange-hued Shorts Story and fuchsia Clubbing til Sunrise, $9, both from OPI.
Have you been putting those granny panties into rotation a lot more since your last breakup? Are you so comfortable with your husband that you rarely make the effort to model your naughty lingerie anymore? Well, the changing of the seasons is an ideal time to mix it up! Break out of your rut and splurge on a new lace bra and thong from your favorite boutique.
The steamy summer months are the perfect opportunity to experiment with a spicy new hair color, cut or even a weave. Be inspired by R&B chanteuse Keri Hilson by highlighting your bangs so you’ll be appropriate in the boardroom or on the beach. Invest in a product like Redken Color Extend Conditioner, $14, redken.com to carefully protect your color-treated strands.
Step up your beauty game this season with the hottest products that won’t break the bank. You’re gonna need them for all those dates you’re going to have, right? Bat megawatt lashes with Maybelline Lash Stiletto Ultimate Length Mascara, $7, drugstores nationwide. And Estee Lauder Bronze Goddess Luminous Liquid Bronzer will make you look as if you returned from a hot rendezvous.
It’s time to break out the sundresses, tanks and miniskirts. “Sundresses are one of the sexiest things a woman can wear. They show nothing but expose everything,” reveals Donald R., 33, of Washington, D.C. Budget tip: Avoid spending money on an entire new summer wardrobe by remixing your timeless wares from last year and pairing them with a few new (and inexpensive) trendy accessories.
Now is your opportunity to start practicing your conversations that you’ll use later to catch (and keep) the attention of all the handsome fellas you’re sure to meet at the upcoming barbeques, picnics and pool parties. Don’t be afraid to compliment a brother on his attire (but be sincere), show off your sports knowledge by bringing up the final score of last night’s big game.
Update your iPod with a few new ballads and rump-shaking tunes. We’re feeling “Pretty Wings” by Maxwell for a romantic midnight walk on the beach and the love-tinged hip-hop cut “Best I Ever Had” by Drake. And if you’re considering ditching your man for someone new, you might want to rock out to “Epiphany (It’s Over)” by Chrisette Michele.
There will be outdoor concerts and festivals galore between now and September, so grab your girls or your honey and make your plans now. The atmosphere will be just right for meeting a summer fling (or two) or spending some much needed quality time with your beau. The ESSENCE Music Festival is celebrating its 15th anniversary and promises to be a haven for eligible bachelors looking to meet you.
Enjoy your favorite summer treats without worrying whether your sundress will still fit by staying active with things you like. Branch out from traditional workouts and try walks through the park and jumping rope with the neighborhood kids. Also, look into sexy workout classes, like strip aerobics, which may come in handy later.
Come on out of that winter cocoon and get back in the know by learning of the hottest events in your area. Call old friends just to say hello and schedule time to catch up. Look up popular clubs and promoters and sign up for mailing lists to get e-mails on sexy events and specials.
We know you’ve loved your Amaretto Sour since college and the Cosmo makes you feel very “Sex and the City,” but it’s time to expand your drink selection for a sexy summer. Try something new like a Pineapple Flirtini or a classic such as a Gin Sidecar.
Temperatures are rising and your body is calling for some attention. It’s time to introduce a new toy in your bedroom and discover new ways you like to be pleasured. Try MyPleasure.com’s Aqua Arouser, $29.95, which is the perfect little friend for women—and it’s waterproof. Also, grab some flavored condoms for some safe and sexy fun.
Make plans for a vacation this summer. We know budgets are tight, so this may be the perfect time for a “staycation” in your city. Explore the fun attractions you pass by every day on your rush to work. Visit your city’s tourism Web site for ideas. Whether near or far, travel this season and pick your dates now.
Before you can truly step into the next season, you have to let go of the last. Had family drama or issues with your man? Lost your job? Now is the time to take a deep breath and let the pain of the past seep away. Once you’ve closed that door, you are open to enjoy the summer as your new and improved self.
It’s time to lock into what things you want to achieve this summer. Ready for love? We challenge you to go on at least three dates this summer—and make the first move at least once. Can’t remember the last time you and your man had date night? Hold yourself to doing three things that upgrade your relationship. Write it down and keep your goals visible to keep you motivated.
Captivate the room and feel sexy with a sassy new scent. Treat yourself to Bulgari au thé vert eau de cologne spray, $78, or try Ocean or Almond Cookie products from Carol’s Daughter, which will have you smelling island fresh.
You don’t have to wait until you hit the beach to discover new fantasies in the pages of a steamy novel. Travel far and enjoy new experiences through entertaining characters.
You are ready for summer when you let your sexiest self out to play! Live your best life this year and remember how sexy you are—inside and out.
Read the six secrets that confident women share »
How are you getting ready for summer? Have other tips to feel sexy? Share your thoughts and plans below.
