Summer Diaries

Summer is here and that means the sun is at its brightest! We are looking forward to escaping it in the pool and whilst we plan that party, we have a list of summer essentials for you to look your fabulous and fashionable best! Doha Diaries is here to tell you the must-haves to get through the Doha heat unscathed.

#5 Sun Block

Are you still picking up sunscreens solely based on the SPF? Don't! You need a sun screen lotion that protects your skin not only from the sun's harmful ultraviolet B rays  (UVB) but also ultraviolet A rays (UVA) that increases the risk of skin cancer. Some sunscreens reflects the sunlight away from your body by scattering the sun light while some lotions absorb the UV rays before they reach your skin. No matter how it works, choose your sunscreen wisely. Points to remember while picking up your sunscreen:

• SPF Facts :
•  Multiply the SPF by 10 to calculate the minutes the lotion will protect you from sun burns! SPF 15 means 150 minutes before you go burning
• A common misunderstanding is that SPF will reap you twice the benefit of using SPF 15. Not true! There is only a slight improvement in SPF 30 in comparison to SPF 15
• UVA Protection 
• Water Resistant - This term means that the sunscreen lotion will protect your skin for 40 - 80 minutes (depending on the sunscreen lotion) once in water. If you intend to say longer, reapply!
• Skin - Pick the sunscreen for your kind of skin - sensitive, allergic, normal or dry.

#4 Swim Wear
 

What we miss in Doha? A one stop shop for swim wear. Think bandeau(s), large summery hats and tops to flaunt that bikini bod. With so many beaches in and around Doha, a stylish swim suit is a MUST! 

Check out this interesting article about purchasing the right kind of swimwear according to your body type.

#3 Fragrances
Be it the smell of the summer air, blooming flowers or the ocean blue, a summery scent is number 3 on our list of must haves. A perfect summer scent is one which is not too fruity to handle. It is almost necessary to remember that Doha's humidity will make you sweat and what you need is a signature summer scent. We love the "Bombshell" collection by Victoria's Secret specially the body mist for women and the signature "Cool Water" (Cool Summer collection) by Davidoff for  both men and women.

Fragrance Tip: Keep a small bottle of ittar in your purse/pocket all the time. Few drops of ittar can lift up your mood about the sultry heat.

PS: Body Shop in Qatar has some great, easy to carry summer scents (for both men and women).

#2 Sun Glasses

A Summer blunder: Not owning a pair of sun glasses in a city like Doha.  Summer's perfect partner in crime, a sleek pair of sunglasses is what you need to beat the heat. Be it oversized glares, crisp aviators, vintage glasses or cat eye shades, we think a fashionable pair of sunnies is what you need for this summer. Want to make a style statement? Pick one in your favorite summer color!

Which pair are you leaning towards?
DD Tip: Ladies, try to get some bling on your aviators. It'll sparkle against the sun!

#1 Summer Dress/ Shorts for Guys

What’s summer without being in fashion? Be it colorful dresses that lets you breathe in the humid weather or a comfortable pair of summer shorts, Doha Diaries loves them all! Plain, printed, skirts, shorts and of course the maxis - the most comfortable attire to wear in Doha. We have already started dress shopping and have some tips for you. For all the local shoppers, do check out the little stores at Souq Waqif. You will be surprised to find a good collection of cotton maxis for a very reasonable price. Don't hesitate to color block and wear bright and dangly accessories. And if you are dreading to go out in the heat already, www.asos.com has some great deals.

Image source: Strut120.com

Image source: Zara Man

Who doesn't love a man who likes to style it up? The go-to summer color trend for men this season is orange. It looks great when paired with neutral colors such as navy, white and grey but don't be shy to experiment.

 

If you don't want to go too bold, add a slice of orange to your formal wear through ties or tan leather shoes.

So the real question is, have you started your summer shopping already? Tell us about your favorite summer spots in Doha. Also, don't forget to send us pictures of your summer style!