Lately, I’ve developed a small ritual before heading out—nothing major, just my way of savoring the season. I might be stepping out for an iced latte, a walk in the neighborhood, or a quick catch-up with a friend, but somehow, summer makes every outing feel like a mini occasion. The sun feels generous, the days feel longer, and I find myself wanting to be more intentional—even with what I carry in my bag.
My go-to this season is a soft, off-white canvas tote. It’s slouchy in the best way—not stiff or structured, just easygoing and effortlessly roomy. That day, I wore it with a cream-colored off-shoulder tee, tucked into a pair of high-waisted linen shorts. My trusty lace-up sandals (which have basically become part of me by now) completed the look. It was breezy, low-key, and slightly undone—just the way I like my summer outfits to feel.
As I sat on a park bench, pulling out things from my bag one by one, it struck me how much these little objects reflect my summer. Take the coconut-scented sunscreen spray, for instance—I reapply it religiously, especially on the back of my neck and my hands. I don’t trust the sun to leave those areas alone.
My sunglasses, naturally, are always with me—even on cloudy days. They’re not just for the light; they offer a little privacy too. Then there’s the paperback novel I’ve been “reading” for weeks. The edges are already curling from the heat, and though I rarely get through more than a few pages at a time, I like knowing it’s there—like a quiet companion.
And maybe the most unassuming but versatile item in my bag? A light silk scarf. Sometimes I tie it around my ponytail, sometimes I drape it over my shoulders when the A/C is too aggressive in cafés, and on days when the sun is too bold, I use it to shield my arms. It’s less of an accessory now, and more of a tiny summertime talisman.
There are other bits too—lip balm, mini perfume, wet wipes—but more than the items themselves, it’s the feeling of being “ready” that I enjoy. Summer calls for spontaneity, but I still like having my own little rhythm. Each time I sling that canvas tote over my shoulder, I feel like I’m not just stepping out—I’m taking a little piece of my personal world with me.
