But it’s a Dry Heat!

By Karen R. Smith

After an absolutely wonderful extended Spring, we’re right where we belong -- hot and headed into Monsoon. Let’s be frank: there will be three-digit temperatures for the next 100 days (or more) and we still have to wear clothes when we go outside...so we need clothing that’s comfortable despite the heat!

Even in protective clothing, you’ll want to use sunscreen on your kids’ bare skin. Generally speaking, there are two different kinds: physical sunscreens, and chemical sunscreens.

Physical sunscreens sit on top of the skin and form a barrier to harmful rays. Zinc oxide is a well-known physical sunscreen; most mineral sunscreens are of the physical barrier type of protection.

Chemical sunscreens work in the top layers of the skin, where they absorb UV rays before they penetrate any deeper. Most lotions and sprays are chemical sunscreens.

Babes and Toddlers

Your littles need protection from our sun and they need it from head to toe. Hats if your child will wear one, and it helps if they have a rear neck panel. I’m charmed by the ones at www.SundayAfternoons.com where shipping is always free and there’s no minimum order.

Check out their infant SunSprout Hat, which comes in an assortment of colors and patterns. Intelligently designed (no back brim, so comfortable even when the child is in a stroller) and UPF50+ sun rating. Worth noting that it is a babe’s version of their popular kids’ hats...more on that in a bit.

www.Solartex.com offers infant clothing swim and sun sets, some of which come with matching hats. They offer UPF50+ protection, meaning they block over 98% of UVA and UVB rays. Right now, with the code SPRING 2019, you will save 15% on all purchases. Solartex carries solar protective clothing for every member of the family, which means if you order summer clothes for everyone, you’ll qualify for free shipping (on orders over $65).

Children

As noted above, www.SundayAfternoons.com has some awesome sun hats for kids. The Explorer and Discovery models are fabulous...and the SunChaser is spectacular (and the neck cape is removable)!

Coolibar clothing is the brand most recommended by the Skin Cancer Foundation; one look at their line will tell you why: every piece they make protects the wearer from harmful UVA and

UVB rays. Right now, if you head to their website (www.coolibar.com) and join their email list, you’ll get 15% off your first order. In addition, there is a 25% off sale on some styles, and free shipping with no minimum purchase if you use this code: JUL25.

Their tennis skorts and swim shorts come in girls sizes 4-16; boys beachwear and playwear are in the same size range. The website is easy to use, and all styles are available in an assortment of solid colors and prints, so you are bound to please everyone!

Teens

Male or female, teenagers want what teenagers want. Do not try and guess what they wish to wear; sit down together and talk it out. Pac Sun has more teen shorts and bathing suits than any other retailer. Forever21; Charlotte Russe and Rue21 (online or at the malls here in Tucson) have every popular trend at an affordable price. Yes, it’s fast fashion, but it remains the best way to clothe teenagers economically.

Women

Headed out on a summer evening? You’ll want a moondress from www.Joyfolie.com to make the evening special! Right now, 40% off everything with the code SUMMER40; free shipping on orders of $125 or more.

Curvy and looking for on-trend comfort? Head to Amazon (Prime shipping is free, so are returns) for the Riviera Sun Tie Dye Spaghetti Strap Maxi Dress. Sizing starts at XL and goes to 3XPlus. The tie-die patterns are wonderful (check out the charcoal/mint combination!) and there are over 500 positive reviews -- at $24.99 you might want to get several!

Given our sunshine, temperatures and chlorinated/brominated pool water, cheap bathings suits should be mandatory. Best assortment this year? www.Target.com

Men

Timing is everything, and if you gentlemen head to www.factory.jcrew.com today, you will discover that the 11” Rivington flex chino shorts are on sale -- these are the JCrew $49 shorts -- for $19.50 (in nine different colors) to $34.99 (two colors) in sizes 29 to 38 inches. Order enough to get through the summer, and you’ll look marvelous no matter the temperature.

Top off those shorts by visiting WalMart, again on line or in the flesh at one of their retail centers. They have Plains Mens Short Sleeve plaid western shirts with pearlized snaps and yoke detailing in assorted plaids, from size small to 4XL at $12 each (marked down from

$14.97). Short sleeved cotton floral print shirts with a vintage vibe start at just $13.67 and rayon blend Barbados camp shirts are $23.87.

About the Author:
Karen R. Smith is an award-winning journalist and publicist. Her book, "Stylishly Sexy" is available online and she takes private style clients throughout Arizona and across the country. Visit her at www.stylesmithtransformations.com