Friday Favorites — July Week 3

🌺 Friday Favorites — July Week 3

 

July Week 3 is giving full summer sparkle — hot sidewalks, cold drinks, late sunsets, and that “we’re in our summer groove now” energy. This week’s favorites are bright, fun, and full of tiny joys that make the long days feel lighter. Let’s jump into the cozy‑bright goodness.

 

 

 

👗 Fashion Favorite — Airy Crinkle Gauze Shorts 

 

 

These shorts are the definition of effortless July comfort — lightweight, airy, soft, and that perfect crinkle‑gauze texture that makes you feel cute without trying. They have a comfy elastic waistband, the ideal relaxed fit, and pockets (bless). Pair them with a tank, a textured tee, or a swimsuit for pool days. They’re breezy, flattering, and give major “cool mom who’s not sweating the small stuff” energy.

💬 Reader prompt: Are you team gauze shorts or team classic denim?

 

 

🍽️ Food Favorite — Lou Lou Girls’ Summer Corn Salad

 

 

This recipe is everything we love about July — fresh, bright, crunchy, and bursting with sweet summer corn. It’s the kind of dish you make once and suddenly it becomes your go‑to for BBQs, pool days, family dinners, and “I need something easy but delicious” nights. The mix of corn, tomatoes, cucumbers, and that tangy dressing is pure sunshine in a bowl. Serve it as a side, scoop it with chips, or pile it on grilled chicken for the full summer moment.

💬 Reader prompt: Corn salads — obsessed or only in the summer?

 

🍓 Favorite Summer Treat

Frozen Yogurt Bark

 

 

If you haven’t made frozen yogurt bark yet, this is your sign! Spread vanilla Greek yogurt onto a baking sheet, then top it with fresh strawberries, blueberries, raspberries, granola, and a drizzle of honey. Freeze for a few hours and break it into pieces.

It’s refreshing, healthy-ish, and the perfect afternoon snack when the temperatures are soaring.

📚 Favorite Beach Read

The Summer Guests by Tess Gerritsen

 

 

Whether you’re headed to the beach or just relaxing on the porch, this mystery has everything you want in a summer read—twists, suspense, and characters you won’t forget.

Grab a cold drink because you’ll lose track of time with this one.

 Favorite Drink

Blueberry Lemonade Spritzer

 

Mix lemonade, sparkling water, fresh blueberries, sliced lemons, and plenty of ice.

It’s fancy enough for guests but easy enough to make every day.

Bonus points if you serve it in a mason jar.

🎬 Favorite Family Movie Night Pick

The Wild Robot

 

This heartwarming animated adventure has beautiful animation, funny moments, and a story that both kids and adults will love.

Don’t forget the popcorn!

🌸 Favorite Beauty Product

Lip Oil

Glossy lips are back, but lip oils are even better. They give you shine without the sticky feeling while keeping your lips hydrated during the hot summer months.

Perfect for tossing in your beach bag.

🛒 Favorite Trader Joe’s Find

Trader Joe’s Passion Fruit Meringue Tarte

 

 

If you spot this in the freezer section, grab it before it’s gone! This seasonal dessert has a buttery crust filled with tangy passion fruit curd and topped with light, fluffy toasted meringue. It’s sweet, tart, refreshing, and feels like something you’d order at a fancy bakery.

Serve it slightly chilled with fresh berries for an effortless summer dessert that’s guaranteed to impress guests—or keep it all to yourself. We won’t judge!

Lou Lou Tip: Pick up a bouquet of Trader Joe’s fresh flowers while you’re there. Their floral section is one of our favorite budget-friendly ways to brighten up the kitchen all week long.

🎵 Favorite Summer Playlist Song

“Espresso” — Sabrina Carpenter

 

 

You can’t scroll social media without hearing it, and honestly…we’re not mad about it. It’s upbeat, catchy, and made for driving with the windows down.

🌻 Favorite Outdoor Activity

Sunflower Field Photos

 

 

July is sunflower season, and local flower farms are beginning to bloom.

Grab your favorite sundress, your camera, and make an evening of it. Golden hour among the sunflowers never disappoints.

🍦 Favorite Ice Cream Flavor

Peach Cobbler

 

Sweet peaches, cinnamon swirls, and buttery crumble pieces?

Summer in a scoop.

🧺 Favorite Backyard Game

Giant Yahtzee

 

This oversized version of the classic game is perfect for family reunions, neighborhood BBQs, or camping trips.

It’s simple enough for everyone to play—and surprisingly competitive!

✨ Favorite Amazon Find

Mini Waterproof Bluetooth Speaker

 

This little speaker has become our summer sidekick! It’s perfect for pool days, backyard BBQs, camping trips, or even singing along in the shower. Despite its compact size, the sound is surprisingly impressive, and the waterproof design means you don’t have to panic if it gets splashed.

Whether you’re listening to your favorite summer playlist, a podcast while gardening, or hosting friends on the patio, this is one of those purchases you’ll use all season long.

Lou Lou Tip: Keep one packed in your beach bag so you’re always ready for an impromptu dance party or relaxing afternoon by the water.

🌅 Favorite Summer Tradition

Sunset Ice Cream Runs

 

 

Sometimes the best memories are the simplest ones.

Pile everyone in the car after dinner, roll the windows down, turn up your favorite music, and grab ice cream while watching the sunset.

Those are the moments your kids will remember for years.

❤️ This Week’s Happy Thought

Don’t wait for the “perfect” summer day.

Wear the swimsuit.

Eat the popsicle.

Take the road trip.

Watch the sunset.

Laugh too loud.

Summer isn’t about having the perfect plans—it’s about making unforgettable memories with the people you love.

Happy Friday, friends! We hope you have the best weekend filled with sunshine, laughter, and a few new favorite things. See you next week for another edition of Friday Favorites!