June 11th, 2013

Swimming champion and Hollywood mermaid Esther Williamspassed away last week at the age of 91. Growing up in Miami and watching reruns of her movies, I always marveled at how glamorous she looked even when soaking wet.

As a tribute to her and to celebrate the upcoming first day of summer (June 21, and please say it's coming), here are some waterproof and swelter-proof products that will help you look as alluring as Esther, even if you're only dipping your toes in at the municipal pool.

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When it comes to skin, the most important thing is protection. Forgo foundation and try a waterproof sunscreen made specifically for the face like Neutrogena Age Shield Face SPF 110 waterproof. This oil-free, lightweight lotion penetrates quickly and protects against UVA and UVB rays. Application tip: shake the bottle first, then apply a few drops to your hands and press into the skin. Add more as needed.

OK, so your skin might need a little help to look totally naked? Look no further than Lancôme Effacernes Waterproof Protective Undereye Concealer. Lightweight and waterproof, it's skin perfection in a tube.

Although Esther never wore a smoky eye in the water, she did have a little “something something” on her eyes (heaven only knows what the makeup artist had to devise to keep it on her lids take after multiple soggy takes in the pool). These days you only need to stroll into the Make Up For Ever counter and ask for Aqua Cream Waterproof Cream Color. This waterproof, long-lasting cream can be used on eyes, lips, or cheeks and stays put. My favorites: Golden Copper and Taupe. I have used these two shades as eye shadows for years—from the beaches of Hawaii to the islands of the Caribbean—and can attest to their staying power.

Finish with Urban Decay Cannonball Ultra Waterproof Mascara. According to Urban Decay, this mermaid-worthy formula has been rigorously field-tested “in the ocean as well as sweat-drenched gym conditions." Although I wouldn’t wear it if I was going to swim laps, it does stand up to going down the water slide numerous times, or sobbing through the Downton Abbey season finale!

The takeaway? Don’t let a little water deter you from looking your best—clearly, Ester never did.

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