I’ve always loved embracing the different styles, tastes, colours and sounds of each season, and summer is no exception. This has to be one of my favourite seasons, because everything about it is light, bright and fresh! It was hard to narrow things down, but I’ve managed to come up with a few of my favourite things about this lovely season.

Clothing Item: Skirts

They’re versatile, feminine and fun – the skirt is hard to beat no matter what time of year it is, but they are just essential during those hot summer days. Wear it long, short or midi-length with a simple t-shirt or patterned blouse to suit the mood. At the moment I love high-waisted on-the-knee skirts paired with a simple crop top. Make the most of those summery colours, too, by donning yellows, greens and blues!

Shoe: Sandals

You can’t go past a pair of good leather sandals when it’s hot and sunny day after day. These should be every New Zealander’s go-to summer item – they’re perfect for everyday wear and go with most outfits. Sliders and T-bar sandals in tan or white are a great choice. Pair them with a floral maxi dress and tassel bag for the ultimate summer look!

Makeup Product: Lipstick

Since I spend much of my day during summer wearing sunglasses, I like to focus the brunt of my makeup efforts on the lips. With the huge range of colours and types of lippy available out there it can be a little overwhelming. To embrace those summery vibes, however, I love to wear a bright pink or soft orange matte lipstick during the day.

Drink: Pimm’s Cup

To me, summer is synonymous to fresh fruits. Therefore, the Pimm’s Cup is my ideal drink of choice this season. Packed full of delicious fruit and cucumber with those essential mint leaves on top, the Pimm’s Cup is the best refresher around. Make like the British and get yours now!

Food: Summer Salads

When it’s hot out (and in!), the last thing you feel like is a heavy stew or risotto. I can’t get enough of fresh, healthy salads at the moment. There are so many scrumptious and simple recipes to choose from, but one of my favourites has to be the classic beetroot, feta, pinenut and spinach combination. Throw some seeds in there for added nutrition!

Activity: Swimming

It’s almost a sin if you’re a New Zealander and you don’t spend at least some of your summer at the beach. I love the ocean – its healing properties, cleansing feel and natural refreshing powers are the best free gift around! As well as a host of  beautiful beaches, we have some amazing lakes and rivers over here, so take a dip in one of those if salt water isn’t your thing.