Little Luxuries Worth Buying This Summer for Women Over 40
There’s something about summer that makes even the smallest upgrades feel wildly worth it. Maybe it’s the longer days, the vacation mindset, or simply wanting life to feel a little easier and prettier this time of year. Either way, I fully support leaning into the little luxuries that make everyday moments feel more elevated. (I also find the value in the actual essentials that make life so much easier in the summer. If you do too, be sure to head over to my latest blog post about the summer essentials I use to make life easier. You’re sure to find some gems in that list.)
And no, I’m not talking about extravagant splurges. I’m talking about the kind of finds that quietly improve your daily routine: the hotel-worthy beach towel, the expensive-smelling body oil, the chic decorative melamine plates you can use while dining al fresco, or even some luxe citronella incense you can burn on your deck to keep the mosquitos at bay in the coolest way possible.
These are the kinds of purchases that make summer feel softer, calmer, more organized, and honestly… more fun.
Whether you’re headed on vacation, spending weekends at the lake, hosting friends outside, or simply trying to make pool days a little more swanky, these are the little luxuries worth buying this summer. If that elevated summer is your thing, you might also be interested in my post about my favorite “quiet luxury” accessories that instantly elevate any summer outfit. There are some pretty cute woven totes and neutral sneakers for summer!
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Flamingo Estate Heirloom Tomato Candle
Flamingo Estate is the epitome of luxurious candles and soaps. You think Aesop is th gold standard? Well check out all things Flamingo Estate to treat yourself. I’m very partial to the herirloom tomato scent as it such a unique summer scent. But Highland Park Jalapeno is another great “green” scent.
European Linen Sheet Set
One of my favorite things about summer is how much I can incorporate linen into my life. Linen sheets can tend to be expensive, but these sheets from Quince are quite reasonable and are known for being comfortable and cool. Linen sheets help regulate the warmer temps in the summer. The best part? They come in several different colors and patterns.
Blue Sardine Terracotta Serving Platter
Mediterranean style is having a moment! This is such a pretty serving platter perfect for any summer tablescape. Use it for anything from serving steaks and fish to grilled vegetables. It looks a lot more luxe than the price tag would have you believe.
Kiehl’s Better Screen UV Serum
Go ahead and treat yourself to really great sunscreen. Yes – there are cheaper drugstore sunscreens that are great! But there’s something to be said about splurging on skin care, especially important skincare that that protects your skin from the sun’s damaging rays. Pop on over to my post about my favorite sunscreens in 2026 if you’re looking for additional recommendations!
Plush Beach Towel
I am at the beach a lot during the summer and I can tell you that there is a real difference between a nice beach towel and a cheap thin one. Yes, I’m a snob about my beach towels and you should be too! This one is so plush and lovely.
Clamshell Bag
Wicker and woven bags are such a great way to make any summer outfit look elevated. (My favorite woven and wicker summer bags are detailed in this post.) This clamshell bag is so perfect for summer!
Beach Days Laundry Detergent
My sister-in-law introduced me to this laundry detergent many years ago and it’s one I return to every summer. It makes your clothes smell like you just stepped off the beach. So fresh and natural. Pure grass is another good scent for summer as well.
Citronella Sea Salt Incense
These incense sticks are meant to be used outdoors to help keep those pesky mosquitoes at bay. Made from the lemongrass plant, this a cooler vibe than just lighting a citronella candle.
Chambray Tile Outdoor Melamine Plates
Every year I find myself getting a new set of melamine plates for outdoor dining. These are next up on my wish list! Last year I had a whole strawberry theme and this year I love this chambray tile print.
Linen Robe
While I don’t have this exact robe, I do have a linen robe from Parachute and it’s my favorite thing to put on hot summer nights. It’s softer than you might imagine.
Muraglia Extra Virgin Olive Oil
I use a ton of olive oil in the summer months. Between grilling veggies and fish and using it in a number of summer salad dressings, I run through it. How cute and summery is this bottle of olive oil? It will be so cute sitting out on your counter but it’s also functional since you can use the oil.
Navy Lacey Sun Hat
Like sunscreen, hats are a must for me during the summer months. (More on that in my post about my favorite hats for summer). Bucket hats are super in this season and this one is a great option for the price point.
Osea Body Oil
In the summer months, skin can dry out with getting in and out of pools, oceans and lakes. This is one of my favorite body oils for summer as it’s so lightweight and has a really pretty subtle scent.
Clare V Sandy Bag
A trendy crochet bag with leather handles, this makes for a perfect beach bag. It’s got a very roomy interior to carry all your beach essentials. If you’re looking for something a little more structured, try one of these Bogg Bag alternatives.
Why Little Luxuries Are Actually Worth It
The best part about these kinds of purchases is that they’re not really about the item itself. They’re about making everyday life feel a little easier, prettier, calmer, or more enjoyable. And honestly? Summer is the perfect excuse to lean into that.
You don’t need a full luxury vacation to romanticize your life a little. Sometimes it’s just a really good towel, a chic candle, and iced coffee in a cup you love carrying around. Which, frankly, feels like money well spent.
Other Posts You Might Like:
How to Host The Perfect Summer BBQ
Summer Beach Essentials For Busy Moms
50 Fun Summer Bucket List Ideas for Kids
Stylish & Useful Picnic Accessories
Posted: May 2026
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