June Favourites

It’s hard not to make this a fully Japan-themed post, since I spent almost the entire month visiting that beautiful country for the first time.

Life has felt busy and effervescent - almost like a dream I didn’t quite wake up from. I barely had time to stop, breathe, and put it all down on paper, to revisit later and believe it really happened.

Just for context: growing up, I never stepped into certain rooms or had access to experiences like long-haul holidays. So this trip felt like a huge milestone - something I’d longed for over the years. A little like a honeymoon, but shared with one of my best friends.

Anyway, I’ll hold back on getting too sentimental and move on with the list - here are a few favourites that come to mind.

On my wardrobe

Flip flops with more elevated looks This isn’t exactly revolutionary, but honestly, flip flops are the shoes I end up wearing the most - and by now, I’ve even developed two tan lines on my feet.

They’ve definitely been having a moment, and I’d say Carolyn Bessette-Kennedy and The Row have something to do with it. I’m not sure if Carolyn was the original blueprint for the long-trouser-and-flip-flop combo, but it wouldn’t surprise me.

I’ve worn Havaianas for years, and recently the brand kindly sent me a couple of pairs. I wore them almost every day in Tokyo (clocking over 20k steps) and they truly held up. Still the most practical and easygoing thing I reach for, especially living on an island.

Here are a few I love, including some very affordable options:

• This classic black Havaianas pair I already own - or the red ones (find them styled on the Pinterest board below)

• This brown pair available at Viellie.

• I’ve got my eye on these jelly ones. I need to stop by the shop in Palma to try them on.

Woven bags I wear these year-round, but my most recent additions include: a brilliant Vinted find for only 30 euros, my new Lié Studio raffia bag, and a handmade black one I bought in a small shop in Kamakura, during a few peaceful ocean-side days.

I won’t go into too much detail here, since I’m planning a What I Wore in Japan post!

A shawl over everything Something I’ve picked up recently - so simple, yet useful. Just throw one in your bag: use it when you’re chilly, drape it over your shoulders to elevate a look, tie it as a pareo, or even spread it out as a picnic blanket if needed. I link one here.

Objects

This matcha bowl from YUGEN I first saw it when I ordered a matcha at the Le Labo café in Kyoto. I asked where it was from, then visited the shop the next day. I didn’t buy it - I wanted to challenge myself to make one instead, but seeing that it’s available online now makes it quite tempting.

The fig candle My favourite candle, always on my bedside table during summer. I’ve had several, and it comes beautifully packaged with a little box of matches.

A silver candle snuffer my friend Michelle gave me It’s now displayed on one of my shelves in the living room. Feels very “me” and was such a thoughtful gift. Linked here.

On my plate

Again, I’ll keep this brief so I don’t spoil the Japan Guide I’m working on, but here are some favourite meals and food moments from the month:

• The ramen at Ichiran. My first and last meal in Japan. It felt like a warm hug, soothing both summer rain and jet lag - my favourite ramen to date.

• All things matcha. I especially loved the one at Wad in Osaka.

• Shiitake tea. Discovered it at a farmers’ market. So nourishing, and full of health benefits like immune and gut support. I’ve found the exact one available online, too.

Inspiration

Pinterest in the summer Mine currently looks like this.

The Row Spring 2026 I absolutely loved how this collection was presented, with still-life bouquets placed beside the garments, all framed in soft cream. It felt fresh and delicate, like an ode to Robert Mapplethorpe.

I think I might paint something soon inspired by that imagery.

The Raf Simons and Miuccia Prada Q&A I saved it a while ago in my “Affirmations” folder, but I found myself coming back to it, especially after being away for weeks, out of routine, and returning to real life feeling a little adrift.

10-year-old girl: I’m ten years old. I love fashion design - especially Prada and Miu Miu. I want to be a designer and I’m really passionate. What advice would you give to help me stay on track?

Miuccia Prada replies: Then it’s my moment to say: study, study, study. Learn. Watch films, look at art, read literature. And understand that a piece of clothing serves the rule of making you live better.