Hard to believe, but summer is just around the corner. Whether you'll be sunning yourself on Sconset Beach or stuck behind a desk in Midtown, there are a few summer essentials that nobody can ignore. In celebration of summer, this week I am giving a list of summer essentials for everyone.

Reef sandals are comfy and durable whether you're walking the beach or running to the nearest subway station. While their leather (Rainbow) competitors stain your feet an ugly shade of yellow, Reefs won't ruin your soles (or the inside of your favorite sensible Manolo slingbacks). Also, if you buy them online, they are practically free — or at least as cheap as $10 in some cases, much better than $42 Rainbows.

Reef Sandals

While Hermes towels are gorgeous and oh-so-tempting, I would much rather sink $500 into a pair of shoes (or an investment fund, if my returns weren't so freaking low) than on a soon-to-be lost or ruined towel. However, a great summer towel is another essential, either as a bright, cheerful bathroom accessory or an essential beach blanket. My personal favorites are from Ralph Lauren — huge, soft, fluffy and weighing in at a very reasonable $30. Also, Lauren by RL makes some beautiful, equally fluffy towels for as low as $20, so you can really stock up!

Ralph Lauren Towel

During the summer months, pedicures become a weekly ritual for me. However, to save time (and money) I like to give myself my own manicures. A great nail polish color is essential no matter where you are for the warmer months. I’m a huge fan of the affordable OPI which is about $6 each, and far superior to Chanel, Dior or Nars, weighing in between $20 and $30 each — what a waste! My favorite summer colors? OPI's Calendar Girl for my toes, which are covered by shoes at work, is a gorgeous bright pink. The color is retired, but you can still find it at most nail salons and beauty supply shops. A great manicure color for this summer is OPI's Sand in my Suit, part of their new South Beach Collection and thus available almost anywhere.

O.P.I.

THE VERDICT: Summer essentials are Reef ­sandals, Ralph Lauren towels and OPI nail polish.