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Summer 2025 Must Haves -A Minimalist Mom's Essentials

  • Jun 16, 2025
  • 5 min read

Updated: Jun 29, 2025

As the sun shines brighter and the days stretch longer, summer is calling! It’s the ideal time as a mom to trim down the essentials and lighten the load. Here are my must-haves as a minimalist mom that needs to make the Summer season in Florida enjoyable and stress-free.


The Capsule Wardrobe


Embracing a minimalist wardrobe does not mean losing your sense of style. A capsule wardrobe can streamline your mornings and keep you looking fresh all summer.


This year, I finally hopped on the bandwagon and decided to finally get a color analysis. In doing so, I discovered that my pumpkin spice latte soul carried into my style as well, I am a Dark Autumn. Colors pulled from spices and the leaves during the coziest time of year. I also did some research on what clothing would fit the most flattering on my body type, and found out that there are more than one type of hourglass figures (who knew?). This helped me become extremely selective as to what I added into my closet this season in my life. I highly recommend doing this, and you don't have to pay for an online service in order to do so. If you are interested in doing this, there are plenty of YouTube videos and free online resources that can help you determine what is the most flattering color palette and style for you.


So as a petite, top-hourglass Autumn— I chose to incorporate versatile pieces that I can easily mix and match. I chose colors that can shine not only this season, but can transition time of the year. I focused on breathable materials that can be easily layered—like a light cotton dress, a couple of basic tank tops, and comfy cotton shorts. Each piece should serve a dual purpose: functionality and style. For instance, a dress that can effortlessly transform from a casual day look to something more polished for outings with a change of shoes.


I've currently been walking a lot more and have been using the public transit to get around town. I knew I needed to focus on finding pieces that would fit my current lifestyle with two little kids. I focused on versatile pieces that can mix and match, are comfortable enough to travel in with kids, and still allow me to feel life I am expressing my sense of style.

Below are the current items in my wardrobe:


  • 3 Pairs of high-waisted shorts (Navy, Deep Khaki, Light Wash)

  • 2 Pairs of Dark Wash High-waisted Jeans

  • 1 Light Wash Shortall

  • 2 Tanks (Navy, Deep Nude)

  • 2 Tees ( Sage, Brown Snake Print)

  • 2 Blouses (Deep Brown, Off White)

  • 2 Button-Ups (Off White, Plaid Brown)

  • 2 Pullovers (Charcoal, Chocolate Brown)

  • 2 Casual Dresses (Cream, Navy)

  • 1 Fancy Dress (Shimmery Beige)


THE Diaper Bag

The Ayla & Co bag - Perfect for any occasion with the kiddos
The Ayla & Co bag - Perfect for any occasion with the kiddos

Gone are the days when diaper bags were cumbersome and chaotic. In 2025, the trend involves chic diaper bags tailored for minimalism.


I needed a bag with smart organizational features. Ideally, sleek yet spacious enough for essentials, but not turning into a bottomless pit. This strategy helps me avoid overpacking, taking the stress out of outings and allowing us to enjoy family time.


My current go-to bag is the full-sized Ayla and Co diaper bag (Hopefully soon I can transition to the mini). It has a sleek minimal design, tons of pockets for easy organizing, and it's convertible - able to switch between 3 different styles in a snap, which helps if you're switching from pushing the little one on the stroller to a carrier for a contact nap. The best part? The inner liner zips off for a quick wash in the case our little adventures happens to come with a little mess!


Soon I will dive a little deeper as to what all I consistently pack in the diaper bag this season with a 4.5 year old and a 14-month-old. Look out for that post coming up soon!


My Small Make-Up List


Summer means sunshine and outdoor fun, but it also brings the need for effective sun protection. I found the COVERGIRL Clean Fresh Skincare Color Correcting Serum Moisturizer Primer (mouthful, I know) and it make it easy as a busy mom to throw it on after brushing my teeth to make myself feel a little more put together.


If I have the energy and the time for more, I have the following in in my bag that I am currently loving:

  • E.L.F Camo Liquid Concealer

  • E.L.F Camo Liquid Bronzer

  • E.L.F Lash N' Roll Brown Mascara

  • E.L.F Brown Tinted Brow Gel

  • E.L.F Brown Brow Pencil

  • E.L.F Brown Liquid Liner

  • ILIA Brown Pencil Liner

  • ILIA Liquid Shadow (Matte | Nude)

  • 2 Shades of Liquid Lipstick (Deep Red, Deep Mauve)


  • If you haven't noticed yet, there are a lot of browns. Using the color analysis this Summer, I'm leaning more towards light contouring using brown undertones rather than adding extreme colors to lean towards a natural Dark Autumn vibe.



Close-up view of eco-friendly sunscreen tubes on a sandy beach
A quick make-up routine for an outing with the kids

Hydration Essentials


With the heat rising, staying hydrated is non-negotiable. Instead of single-use plastic bottles, I personally opt to carry a simple glass bottle that I reused from a tea beverage we purchased. It looks and feels as if I bought it that way after removing the label. By making this simple change, not only is it environmentally friendly, but also enhance your summer outings significantly.



The Everywhere Stroller

GB Pocket All Terrain Stroller
GB Pocket All Terrain Stroller

While a stroller is often a considerable investment, 2025 offers many options perfect for today’s minimalist moms. A light, foldable stroller can be a lifesaver.


This year, we've been using tranisit transportation a whole lot more. Not only to cut costs, but my eldest child ADORES the city bus. It gives us the chance to slow down and talk as we people watch along the ride. We desperately needed to invest in something for my youngest that could easily handle moving through the grocery errands, a trip to the beach, strolling through the "zoo" (code for Busch Gardens), and most importantly: be compact enough to be brought onto the city bus. These non-negotiable features felt impossible to find in just one stroller.


After hours of looking I found the GB Pocket All Terrain stroller. In all honesty, I wish I had gotten it sooner! Not only does it provide all of the funtionalities that I need, but the stoller comes with adapters for the little one's carseats, so you don't have to wait until your little one is sitting up in order to use it. The stoller only weighs about 10 pounds, and folds down to a teeny-tiny square if needed. When we do bring it in our vehicle, we can easily stash it behind the passenger seat without impacting the space needed for leg room. On the bus, it can easily be tucked away under my seat! This stoller has made my life so much easier and I recommend to anyone who is looking to simplify their little one's trsnsport.


High angle view of a compact personal wellness kit in a beach tote
Day at the beach

Embracing Minimalism This Summer


By investing in versatile items, I have not only reduced clutter but also enhanced the family’s summer experience.


This summer, try taking take a step toward a minimalist lifestyle in a way that works best for you and your needs. In 2025, remember that simplicity can lead to joy and freedom. Simplifying your essentials allows you to savor every moment of summer without feeling overwhelmed. Here’s to a delightful summer filled with ease, enjoyment, and unforgettable memories!

 
 
 

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