Almost paradise

The days are getting longer and hotter, which can only mean one thing – summer is here once again. Jackets that were meant to keep us warm during the Christmas season are being tucked away to make room for bikinis, board shorts and everything else that’s fun, light and airy. The heat is making it harder to stay focused and concentrate on anything other than figuring out when you can get away and how you plan to spend that time. After all, there is nothing more exciting than the promise of a great tan, a chance to be with family and friends, and an opportunity to leave your worries behind, even if it’s just for a little while.

Make plans for summer and gather what you need. Updating your wardrobe without having to spend the rest of your summer destitute also presents a challenge. In the end, all you really need to do is pick up some stuff here and there to spice up what you already have. Spending an afternoon in SM Department Store will make you realize that this is the place to do just that. Whether you’re sporty, glamorous, or prefer the laid-back khaki and whites, you’ll find what you’re looking for. They have everything from the practical luggage, towels and totes to funky accessories that can liven up any outfit. Magazines have been crazy about anything lacy, crochet and cutout. Who knew that you could find them in the Kultura section with affordable banigs for the beach and ethnic wooden bangles that cost a fortune elsewhere? Animal print scarves that you can use for your hair, tie around your neck, or wear as a cuff or accent for your bag can instantly transform anyone from boring to chic. Traveling pillows in wild prints can also jazz up your plane, car or train ride. The search for the perfect bikini at a decent price also ends here, because there are just so many to choose from. Headbands, tube tops, shorts, hats, slippers and anything else under the sun that you might possibly need come in every color. Just the sight of them can instantly brighten up your day and make you feel like a kid in a candy store. The best part of this shopping experience is that it doesn’t hurt your pocket. Everything is so affordable that, unlike the hangover that you may experience after a night filled with alcohol, it won’t leave you with buyer’s remorse the next day.

Each person has a different idea of what constitutes a great summer. Being fully equipped without having to scour the malls for the missing piece of your puzzle is such a relief and truly takes a load off. So whether you’re heading to an African safari, trekking to some Asian shopping mecca, making your way to the beach for a great tan and a good time or simply taking it easy at home, if you need some stuff along the way, this place has got it all for you.