We’ve all seen the videos. The 5:00 AM wake-up calls, the perfectly matching workout sets, the aesthetic green juices, and the journaling sessions that look like they belong in a magazine. The “That Girl” morning routine has taken over the internet, and while I love the inspiration, let’s be real—some days, just getting out of bed feels like an accomplishment.
But here’s the secret: you don’t have to wake up before the sun or have a perfectly curated life to have a morning routine that makes you feel amazing. This summer, I’ve been focusing on a realistic “That Girl” routine. It’s about romanticizing the small moments and setting myself up for a good day, without the pressure of perfection.
Here is my realistic summer morning routine, complete with the products that actually make it happen. You can shop all of these on my Amazon Storefront.
7:00 AM: The Gentle Wake-Up
I am not a 5:00 AM girl, and I’ve stopped trying to force it. Instead, I aim for 7:00 AM. The biggest game-changer for me has been ditching the blaring iPhone alarm. I use a sunrise alarm clock that gradually fills the room with light, mimicking a natural sunrise. It makes waking up feel so much less jarring.
Before I even look at my phone (a habit I’m really trying to stick to!), I drink a full glass of water. I keep a glass tumbler with a silicone sleeve on my nightstand so it’s the first thing I reach for. Hydration before caffeine is my number one rule for summer mornings.
7:15 AM: Skincare as Self-Care
Summer skincare is all about lightweight hydration and glow. I splash my face with cold water—it wakes me up instantly and helps depuff. Then, I go in with a hydrating toner and a vitamin C serum for that bright, even complexion.
My favorite part of the morning is using my ice roller. I keep it in the freezer overnight, and rolling it over my face and neck feels incredible, especially on hot summer mornings. It’s a two-minute habit that makes me feel like I’m at a spa. Finally, I apply a generous layer of sunscreen. Non-negotiable.
7:30 AM: Movement (Whatever That Looks Like Today)
Some days, movement means a 45-minute Pilates class. Other days, it means a 15-minute stretch on my living room floor or a quick walk around the neighborhood while listening to a podcast. The goal isn’t to burn a million calories; it’s just to get my blood flowing and wake up my body.
I love throwing on a matching workout set, even if I’m just stretching at home. It instantly makes me feel more put together. I’ve been living in these buttery soft ribbed sets from Amazon—they look identical to the expensive brands but cost a fraction of the price.
8:15 AM: The Coffee Ritual
I look forward to my morning coffee from the moment I go to sleep. In the summer, I switch exclusively to iced lattes. I use a milk frother to get my oat milk perfectly creamy, pour it over ice in an aesthetic glass cup, and add my espresso.
While I drink my coffee, I take five minutes to write in my gratitude journal. I don’t write pages and pages—just three things I’m grateful for and one intention for the day. It shifts my mindset and helps me start the day on a positive note.
8:30 AM: Getting Ready for the Day
My summer makeup routine is minimal. A little tinted moisturizer, some cream blush, brushed-up brows, and a swipe of lip oil. I throw on a comfortable but cute outfit—usually a linen set or a breezy sundress—and I’m ready to tackle my to-do list.
The “That Girl” routine isn’t about doing everything perfectly; it’s about finding the small habits that make you feel good. Whether that’s a five-minute ice rolling session or taking the time to froth your milk, romanticize your mornings this summer.
What is one non-negotiable in your morning routine? Let me know in the comments! And don’t forget to check out my Amazon Storefront for all my morning essentials.
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