How to Enjoy Your Most Stylish and Rewarding Summer Ever

      I write this while seated at my desk in my South London bedroom on a humid day, feeling a few fleeting breezes through my slightly open windows. Although my deadlines haven’t taken a break, everything else seems to have. My dog lies lazily curled up at my feet, the buzz of a fly serves as the soundtrack to my afternoon, and my hair is turning frizzy as the hours pass. All indicators suggest that summer is here. I don’t know about you, but I am resolved that this summer will be my best yet. My calendar is already filled with plans, yet I find myself pondering the slower days and how to truly enjoy them. It’s all too simple to feel out of rhythm when a perfect summer day arrives with no plans on the agenda. Eager to fully embrace the season and come out feeling satisfied, I reached out to some fashionable friends to learn about their summer plans, hoping their aspirations, objectives, and yes, their capsule wardrobes, will inspire me. Keep reading for their advice on making this your most satisfying and stylish summer yet.

      How Instagram's Most Chic People Will Spend Their Summers

      Images: @amaka.hamelijnck

      Content creator Amaka Hamelijnck, based in Amsterdam, enjoys her favorite season exploring various European cities with friends and family.

      What does a perfect summer’s day look like to you?

      I’m such a summer enthusiast—it’s my favorite season. I just returned from Mallorca with my boyfriend, where we enjoyed delightful leisurely summer days. We woke up early, had breakfast outdoors in the sun, then drove to the beach where we spent the day reading, sunbathing, and swimming, capped off with my favorite summer dish, paella, at night. Ideally, I’d be dressed in a flowy linen maxi skirt, a blouse over my bikini, and a hat for sun protection.

      What recipes do you turn to when the weather warms up?

      I have a passion for açaí bowls. They're fresh, healthy, and cold—perfect for warm summer days. The best one I’ve had was in Brazil, but I also enjoy making them at home, topped with strawberries, blueberries, bananas, granola, and almond paste.

      Where will you be spending your summer?

      I love visiting the Spanish Islands like Mallorca, Menorca, and Ibiza. There's something magical about driving around, discovering hidden beautiful beaches, and watching the sunset is best done on an island.

      What’s on your summer reading list?

      I’m currently reading "Citroeninkt," a beautiful autobiography by Maral Noshad Sharifi, which tells the story of Talar, who flees Iran with her mother to Moerkapelle. I also plan to read "Intermezzo" by Sally Rooney.

      Which movies, TV shows, or cultural moments represent summer for you?

      My favorite summer film is "Vicky Cristina Barcelona," about two best friends on a summer trip in Barcelona who meet an artist named Juan Antonio, who is drawn to both of them while also struggling with his unstable ex-wife, Maria Elena. I recommend it!

      Do you have any summer memories you cherish?

      Last summer stands out as we celebrated my best friend Benthe's bachelorette in Ibiza with all our friends. It was cliché, but we laughed and cried—savoring summer like never before.

      Are there any summer traditions you uphold each year?

      I always kick off summer with the first BBQ at the park once the weather warms up, typically with my sister and our boyfriends. Another tradition is a boat day with my best friends on Amsterdam’s canals.

      What scent do you primarily associate with summer?

      Any fragrant flowers.

      Is there a song that captures summer for you?

      "Kids" by MGMT.

      Is there anything you want to do or try this summer that you haven't done before?

      I've always wanted to go on a road trip now that I finally have my driving license!

      Shop Amaka Hamelijnck’s Summer Wish List:

      - Sézane Justine Basket Bag

      - Reina Olga Hammond Bikini Top

      Images: @oliviamarcus

      Olivia Marcus, a content creator and fashion and lifestyle writer based in New York, is spending her summer traveling through Italy with a reading list that I wholeheartedly endorse.

      What does your ideal summer day entail?

      A day at the beach (any beach will do!) with sunshine on my skin. I’d wear J.Crew linen trousers, a Skims bikini, have a new book, and enjoy a turkey sandwich on sourdough by the beach. Those ingredients are essential for a perfect summer day.

      What recipes do you favor when the weather warms?

      I enjoy anything grilled and take the opportunity to experiment with various marinades. Currently, my favorite is a mix of ginger, garlic, soy sauce, and maple syrup on grilled chicken and vegetables.

      Where will you be spending your summer?

      I’m looking forward to