HEAT WAVE
Edited By Mikkel Hyldebrandt
Summer has a way of bringing out our most confident selves. Shirts get smaller, shorts get shorter, skin gets kissed by the sun, and suddenly every pool party, rooftop happy hour, beach weekend, and Pride celebration feels like an opportunity to serve a look.
But being summer sexy isn't about having six-pack abs or following every trend on TikTok. It's about feeling comfortable in your own skin, smelling incredible, taking care of yourself, and adding a few luxurious touches that make you walk just a little taller. Whether you're planning your next vacation or simply making your neighborhood your personal runway, these are the products – and a few fashionable indulgences – we're loving this season.
Glow Without the Burn
A healthy glow is always in style, but sun damage never is. This summer, swap basic SPF for one that multitasks. New shimmering sunscreens and body oils provide broad-spectrum protection while leaving behind a subtle golden sheen that catches the light beautifully. Think less disco ball, more "just stepped off a yacht in Mykonos." Bonus points if the formula is reef-safe, hydrating, and infused with skin-loving ingredients like the Naked Sundays SPF50 Golden Glow Body Sunscreen ($34)
Hair That Looks Like You Didn't Try (Even Though You Did)
Humidity can be both friend and enemy. The secret weapon? A lightweight styling cream or texture spray that creates movement without making your hair stiff or crunchy. Matte finishes tend to feel more modern and natural, while sea salt sprays deliver that carefree, just-back-from-the-beach texture. Try the STMNT Grooming Spray ($20) for a light-weight texture aid and style support.
Find Your Summer Signature Scent
Nothing is sexier than someone who smells amazing. Warm weather calls for fragrances that are lighter, brighter, and a little flirtier than the heavy scents of winter. Spray lightly on your neck, wrists, and chest before heading out. The right fragrance becomes part of your personality – and sometimes the thing people remember most about meeting you. We love the effortless fun and grab-and-go format of TONE Colognes that comes in a variety of great scent profiles like the TONE Coconut On the Go Cologne ($20)
A Crop Top Is Having Its Main Character Moment
Guys, it's officially your turn. The crop top has graduated from niche fashion statement to full-on summer staple. Whether paired with tailored shorts, relaxed linen pants, or your favorite swim trunks, a well-fitted crop top shows just enough skin to feel playful without trying too hard. We love the heavy-weight feel of the Abercrombie Premium Cropped Tee ($35)
Short Shorts. Long Confidence.
Yes, the inseam is getting shorter. Five-inch shorts continue to dominate for good reason: they flatter nearly every body type, feel cooler in the summer heat, and strike the perfect balance between sporty and sexy. Choose breathable fabrics like cotton or linen, and don't be afraid of bold colors or playful prints. Summer is no time for boring, so get into short shorts like the Bike Athletic Coaches Short 5" Inseam ($35).
Jewelry That Catches the Light
Sometimes all it takes is one great accessory. A silver chain, layered necklaces, a sleek cuff bracelet, or a pair of understated hoops can instantly elevate even the simplest tank top and shorts. Mixed metals are everywhere this season, and pearls continue to blur traditional gender lines in the best possible way. The goal isn't to wear everything at once – it's to wear the right piece that feels authentically you like Gasper Lapis Set ($160).
The Body Care Upgrade
Sexy skin doesn't start with lotion; it starts in the shower. Exfoliating two or three times a week – perhaps with the incredible L'Occitane Almond
Exfoliating Shower Scrub ($36) – helps reveal smoother skin and prevents ingrown hairs, especially if you're shaving or grooming body hair more frequently during swimsuit season. Follow with a rich moisturizer or lightweight body serum to keep skin hydrated and healthy.
Lips Deserve Attention, Too
It's amazing how many people forget lip care. A hydrating lip balm with SPF protects one of the most vulnerable parts of your face while keeping lips soft and kissable. Some newer formulas even add a subtle tint or glossy finish without looking overly polished like the Sun Bum Clear SPF 30 Moisturizing Lip Balm ($10).
Your Summer Bag Says Everything
Even if you're just heading to the pool, upgrade the bag. A sleek crossbody, woven tote, or designerinspired mini bag instantly makes your entire outfit feel intentional. Plus, it gives you somewhere stylish to stash your sunscreen, sunglasses, phone, and fragrance for touch-ups throughout the day. We are absolutely crazy about the Grams 157 Essential Sling ($249).
The Sexiest Thing You Can Wear
Let's end with the one thing you can't buy. Confidence. Not the loud, performative kind, but the quiet confidence that comes from taking care of yourself, dressing in a way that makes you happy, and refusing to apologize for taking up space. Summer sexy isn't about impressing strangers at the pool. It's about catching your own reflection, smiling, and thinking, "Yeah...I look good."
The Summer Flirt Manual
How to Make the First Move (Without Making It Weird)
Edited by Mikkel Hyldebrandt
“I love your shirt.”
“Have you been here before?”
“What are you drinking?”
The goal isn’t to impress someone—it’s to start talking. Authenticity is far sexier than trying too hard.
Compliment the Person, Not Just the Body
Queerly Beloved, summer has a way of making us all feel a little bolder. Maybe it’s the longer days, the rooftop cocktails, the shirtless pool parties, or the simple fact that everyone seems just a bit more open to possibility. Whatever the reason, summer is peak flirting season.
But let’s be honest: walking into a bar alone can feel intimidating. So can making eye contact with someone you’ve been admiring from across the room. The good news? Flirting isn’t about having the perfect pickup line or looking like you belong on the cover of a magazine. It’s about showing up as yourself, making someone feel good in your company, and having the confidence to say hello.
Whether you’re hoping to leave with a phone number, a new friend, or simply a little more confidence than when you arrived, here are a few ways to turn up the charm this summer.
Settle In Before You Scope Out the Room
When you arrive, resist the urge to immediately scan for the hottest guy in the building. Grab a drink, chat with the bartender, soak in the atmosphere, and let yourself relax.
People are naturally drawn to someone who looks comfortable in their own skin. Confidence often starts with simply looking like you’re enjoying yourself.
Lose the Phone
If you’re hoping to meet someone, your phone is probably your biggest obstacle. Checking a message is one thing, but scrolling endlessly sends a clear “don’t interrupt me” signal. Keep your head up, make eye contact, and stay present. Sometimes a smile across the room is all it takes to start a conversation.
Keep It Simple
Forget memorizing pickup lines. A genuine compliment or an easy question works far better.
Sure, we all appreciate a great set of shoulders or impressive thighs, but compliments that feel personal tend to land better. Notice someone’s smile, laugh, style, tattoos, jewelry, or energy. Showing that you’re paying attention says much more than commenting on someone’s physique.
Flying Solo? That’s a Strength
Showing up alone might feel vulnerable, but it also makes you more approachable. You’re not hidden behind a group of friends, and you’re free to mingle at your own pace.
Challenge yourself to start just one conversation before the night ends. It doesn’t have to lead to romance. Every chat builds confidence for the next one.
Listen More Than You Talk
One of the most underrated flirting skills is simply listening. Ask questions. Stay curious. Let the conversation breathe instead of worrying about what witty thing to say next.
People rarely remember the cleverest person they met—but they always remember the person who made them feel interesting.
Read the Signals
Good flirting is mutual. If they’re smiling, asking questions, maintaining eye contact, or finding reasons to keep talking, that’s usually a green light.
If they seem distracted, keep looking around the room, or answer with one-word responses, don’t take it personally. Thank them for the chat, wish them a great evening, and move on with confidence. Not every connection is meant to spark—and that’s perfectly okay.
The Sexiest Thing You Can Bring Is Your Best Self
Queerly Beloved, here’s the secret: flirting isn’t really about convincing someone to like you. It’s about giving yourself permission to be seen. Not every conversation becomes a date. Not every smile leads to a kiss. But every time you put yourself out there, you become a little more comfortable in your own skin. You never know where a simple “Hi” might lead.
Now Slaying Your Queer Summer Viewing Guide
Edited by Mikkel Hyldebrandt
Whether you’re cooling off with the AC blasting or recovering from a weekend of pool parties and Pride events, here’s what deserves a spot on your watch-list this summer. From swoon-worthy romances to queer-coded outsiders and deliciously camp horror, these five picks are bringing the heat.
Heartstopper Forever (Netflix)
The beloved coming-of-age phenomenon gets its emotional farewell with a feature-length finale following Nick and Charlie as they navigate first love, growing up, and the uncertainty of what’s next. Sweet, hopeful, and refreshingly authentic, it’s still one of television’s best reminders that queer joy deserves a happy ending.
I Want Your Sex (In theaters)
Queer cinema icon Gregg Araki returns with a stylish, provocative erotic thriller that’s equal parts seductive, funny, and unsettling. Starring Olivia Wilde and Cooper Hoffman, the film dives into desire, power dynamics, and sexual liberation with Araki’s unmistakable flair. It may not be a conventional queer love story, but its fearless exploration of sexuality makes it one of the summer’s most talked-about films – and a must-see for anyone who likes their cinema bold, beautiful, and a little dangerous.
Cape Fear (Apple TV)
The classic thriller gets a stylish new twist in this prestige Apple TV series starring Javier Bardem as the terrifying Max Cady. Equal parts psychological suspense and Southern Gothic, Cape Fear is packed with gorgeous cinematography, simmering tension, and performances you’ll be talking about all summer. Even though it’s not an explicit LGBTQ+ story, the series does introduce an LGTBQ+ storyline with Natalie played by Lily Collias, whose evolving sexuality gets deeply involved in the complex and terrifying plot.
Spider-Man: Brand New Day (In theaters)
No, Peter Parker isn’t suddenly coming out – but Spider-Man has always been the superhero for anyone who’s ever felt like they didn’t quite fit in. The newest adventure leans into themes of isolation, identity, chosen family, and finding your people, making it easy for queer audiences to see a little of themselves beneath the mask.
X-Men ‘97 – Season 2 (Disney+)
Long embraced as one of pop culture’s greatest allegories for queer identity, the X-Men return with more mutant drama, social commentary, and found-family feels. Add in Morph’s nonbinary representation, and you’ve got one of the most quietly queer superhero series currently streaming.
Bottom line: Whether you’re in the mood to laugh, cry, scream, or swoon, this summer’s lineup proves queer stories – and queer readings of great stories – are more visible than ever. Grab the popcorn, text your crush, and press play.
Photos: Marvel Animation, Disney, Sony Pictures, Netflix, Magnolia Pictures, Apple TV
Photos by: Russ Youngblood
BARS & CLUBS MIDTOWN
A snapshot of Gay Atlanta’s favorite destinations. View their ads in DAVID & visit their websites for
SNAPS
BLAKE’S ON THE PARK blakesontheparkatlanta.com 227 10th St NE
BULLDOGS 893 Peachtree St NE
FRIENDS NEIGHBORHOOD BAR friendsonponce-atl. com
736 Ponce De Leon Ave NE
MY SISTER’S ROOM mysistersroom.com 66 12th St NE
X MIDTOWN xmidtown.com 990 Piedmont Ave NE
THE T modeltatlanta.com 465 Boulevard SE
CHESHIRE
HERETIC hereticatlanta.com 2069 Cheshire Bridge Road
BJ ROOSTERS bjroosters.com 2043 Cheshire Bridge Road NE
WESTSIDE
MARQUETTE 868 Joseph E. Boone Blvd NW 840ATL 840 Ralph David Abernathy Blvd
BOGGS SOCIAL & SUPPLY 1310 White St. SW Atlanta, GA 30310 boggssocial.com
ANSLEY
ATLANTA EAGLE 1492 Piedmont Ave NE
FELIX’S 1510 Piedmont Ave NE
MIXX mixxatlanta.com 1492 Piedmont Ave NE
OSCAR’S oscarsatlanta.com 1510 Piedmont Ave NE
WOOFS woofsatlanta.com 494 Plasters Ave NE
TRIPPS : tripps-bar 1931 Piedmont Cir NE
EAST ATLANTA, GRANT PARK, EDGEWOOD, & DECATUR
MARY’S marysatlanta.com 1287 Glenwood Ave SE
LORE ATLANTA loreatl.com 466 Edgewood Ave loreatl.com
CHOO CHOO’S 3711 N. Decatur 770-374-4343
DINING
MIDTOWN
CASA ALMENARA 991 Piedmont Ave NE casa-almenara.com
LA HACIENDA lahaciendamidtown. com 900 Monroe Dr NE
TUK TUK THAI FOOD LOFT
TUKTUKATL.COM 1745 Peachtree Rd NW
DEKALB
LIPS ATLANTA atldragshow.com 3011 Buford Hwy NE
RETAIL MIDTOWN
BOY NEXT DOOR MENSWEAR boynextdoormenswear. com 1000 Piedmont Ave NE, Ste A
ANSLEY
BARKING LEATHER barkingleather.com 1510 Piedmont Ave NE
GCB & PLEASURES brushstrokesatlanta. com 1510-D Piedmont Ave. NE
FITNESS
MIDTOWN
URBAN BODY FITNESS
urbanbodyfi tness. com
500 Amsterdam Ave N
CHESHIRE
GRAVITY FITNESS gravityfi tnessatl. com
2201 Faulkner Rd NE
SPAS/BATHS
ADULT
FLEX SPA flexspas.com 76 4th St NW
SOUTHERN NIGHTS VIDEO 2205 Cheshire Bridge Rd NE
Photos by: Russ Youngblood
Photos by: Russ Youngblood
We all have those moments of ‘wait, did they just say that?’ Lucky for you, we compile the best of the best right here on this page.
Want to join in on the b*tch session? Submit your own nuggets to info@davidatlanta.com.
That feeling when the urge to declutter wears and you just made everything worse.
Sexy men’s tiddies will not fix everything but it’s a start.
Probably need a hug, but I booked a trip instead.
I come across the same people on the apps, so I see some of them as coworkers.
I will succeed because I am gay. And insane.
All gay friend groups seem to be united by the one guy who slept with them all.
It is a gay sin not to tag your friends in photos!
Isn’t it great how you keep leveling up to be more gay every year?
Don’t ignore what your body is saying.
