Summer Through my Camera Roll
7:00 AM Slow Rise and Coffee
Whether I’m in Skiathos, Barcelona, or Melbourne, summer mornings are always my favourite. I love waking up to the sunrise through my window so I can experience a gradual wakeup then head out for a soy latte at one of my favorite local café or if I come across something new on the way. After I sit and enjoy my coffee, usually over a chat with my friends, I’ll go for a walk along the beach to Pilates class for some movement to kickstart my day. Other mornings I’ll go for a morning swim just to have a clear-mind and awake for the rest of the day.
11:00 AM Somewhere warm, somewhere bright
Late mornings are usually spent by the beach or exploring markets and fashion stores. Sometimes I’ll stay by the water, leave briefly for a snack like a pain au chocolat, canelé, or mango mochi, then wander back. I’m usually in a light dress with silver accents, diamonds, cool tones, and white. In my bag I always have the essentials: Summer Fridays Lip Butter Balm, my Canon camera, a Gisou hair comb, Gentle Monster sunglasses, Salt & Stone hand cream, a Guerlain lipstick, my personalised summer parfum from Shanghai, and peppermint Leone pastilles.
1:30 PM Long lunch
Lunch is either fresh or indulgent, no in between. It is usually seafood; oysters with yuzu dressing, grilled octopus, or something spicy like gambas al ajillo in Barcelona. I love long lunches with friends, sharing a range of dishes so we can try a bit of everything. If it’s a European summer, I will order a glass of chilled Chablis, perfectly crisp. In Asia, I opt for coconut water or a small pour of cold sake.
4:00 PM Reset
Around 4pm, I take time out to slow down and reset. Usually this means relaxing back at the hotel, in a villa, or on a boat. It’s when I freshen up with a light toner and face mist, reapply skincare, and review notes for upcoming trips. I’ll shoot a few photos and if there’s a rooftop pool, I’ll be there with a towel, iced sparkling water, and a plate of fresh summer fruit.
7:00 PM Walk, watch, unwind
As the heat drops off, I love going for a long walk before getting ready. One of my favourite things about summer is how late the sun sets. Sometimes I’m by the beach, sometimes wandering a quiet street like in Greece or Singapore. I love the light at this hour. It’s the perfect time to unwind, listen to music and reset.
9:00 PM Dinner (Favorite time of day)
I absolutely love summer evenings. I shower, get ready, wear light makeup, a spritz of Roja Elixir and Kayali, and something effortless like a strapless back dress with small statement diamond and silver jewellery. Dinner is always late. It might be more seafood, lobster and oysters with white wine and parsley, or a creamy saffron risotto finished with tiramisu and an espresso. I like places with a view, soft lighting, and cold wine. If I am alone, I find hidden spots with small menus and excellent food. If I am with friends, we always over order and share everything. Some of my favourite summer nights have been in San Sebastian, dining by the water as the sun goes down.
11:00 PM Late summer hours
In the late hours, I love exploring night markets or walking with friends through quiet streets. Beach clubs are my exception for clubbing, -the music is better, the vibe is right, and the overall setting makes all the difference. On more relaxed nights, I’ll have a cocktail by the pool, go for a night swim, or find a vibrant bar to end the evening.