6 Ways to Stay Smart over Summer

Growing up on the East Coast (Hampton, VA), summer vacation has always meant one thing: the beach. Going to the beach as much as I can, for as long as I can, whenever I can. I love the sound of waves crashing on the shore, picnicing on the sand, making fun of the tourists, and being stalked by seagulls. Yes, I even love the seagulls. The ocean calms my spirit and leaves its vague memory on my soul. And after a nice long relaxing day at the beach, I cannot resist checking my reflection in the mirror (even more than usual), because the ocean is not only my therapist, it is also my stylist.

Sun-kissed cheeks, salty, tousled curls, and that after-sunscreen scent are in my opinion, the sexiest summer styles. But don't worry, you don't need an ocean stylist or a salon stylist to achieve the exact same look.

I use Redken Fresh Curls Scrunching Spray when I am in Blacksburg or when I just can't get to the ocean to recreate the exact same tousled look. After showering, brush your hair and part it as you usually do. Then, flip your head upside down and scrunch your hair using a towel to soak up the excess water. Next, spray your hair generously with the scrunching spray and flip your hair upside down repeating the same towel-scrunching process. Lastly, let it dry naturally or blow-dry on low. The spray brings out any natural curl or wave that your hair may be hiding. This even works on my sister whose hair is stick-straight.

Do you have a tanning-bed/pre-cancerous mole/premature wrinkle/sunshine phobia? No worries. You can still look like you've been on vacation by using MAC bronzing powder. There are five different shades. They range from lighter matte colors to dark shimmery ones. I use the darkest shimmery one to bring out my already tanned skin. Just use a cosmetic brush and apply it underneath your brow-line, along your cheek bones, and across the bridge of your nose. The powder is dark enough to give you a certain glow, but light enough to avoid the whole "I got in a fight with the sunless tanner and lost" look.

The six hour drive from Blacksburg to the oceanfront is worth it to me. No matter where you are, I advise making the trip. I guarantee the gas money will be cheaper than sessions of therapy. Plus, there is nothing like the sand between your toes, the wind tangling your hair, and the lingering smell of salt in the air. I recommend getting an authentic sun-kissed, tousled-hair look at least once in your lifetime. Just remember, it doesn't work on lobster-fried faces, so load up on the SPF, drive out to the beach, and be GORGEOUS!

www.blog.anthroplogie.com

www.blog.anthroplogie.com

Between the late night bon-fires, and constant Netflix marathons, it is easy to let your brain go on a vacation too! Follow this guide on How to Stay Smart over Summer, so that in September you will not only come back with a new tan, latest clothes, but some refreshed knowledge as well.

1. Beach Read

The best thing about beach reads, is you get to decide! Finally start that series, all your friends always reference or indulge in a intense Romance novel! From so many good books, like Sophia Amoruso’s #GIRLBOSS, you will be tearing through these texts as you get your tan on!

2. Tutor a Youngster

Tutoring younger kids, is a great way to make some cash or get your volunteer hours in over summer! Not only will you refresh your knowledge on some of the basics! But you may even learn a new thing or two from them as well!

3. Take A Interesting Class

Studying and taking notes, is not even a chore when it is about a subject that you are interested in. Step out of your comfort zone and take that pottery class, or history of fashion that you never had time for during the school year!

4. Apps that Make You Think

There are so many fun apps, from unblock me to 2048. These games are not only working on your battery life, but your brain as well!

5. DIY

Do it yourself! Whether it is determining how much 35% off that $98 shirt is, or using an actual map on your road trip with your besties to the beach. You will be the hero, on the next family road trip when the GPS breaks, and even impress the cute cashier by already knowing the total of your order!

6. Try Something New

From taking zumba for the first time to learning to surf, you are challenging yourself! Everytime you try something new, you are growing as an individual, and becoming stronger physically and mentally!

What are your stay healthy and happy plans for summer? Tweet us @UChic with your thoughts! Want more inspiration? Visit UChic on FacebookInstagramPinterest and TUMBLR

Vanessa Kuhlor, High School Junior, Camden, CT

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