Lola Tung's Universe: The Adidas Sneakers She Admires, Cher Dresses She Dreams Of, and the Patti Smith Book She Hopes to Read.

      Step into the realm of the most innovative minds in fashion with our series My World, where readers will learn how top stylists, designers, and influencers crafted their careers, along with insights into their favorite eateries, cherished albums, fashion treasures, the etiquette they adhere to, and more. If you've seen The Summer I Turned Pretty, you're likely familiar with Lola Tung. However, after just a brief conversation with her, it’s evident that the traits that have helped her become a rising star—her kindness, inquisitive nature, and laid-back self-assurance—transcend the bubbly character she portrayed, Belly Conklin, at Cousins Beach all those years ago. When we connect, Tung is immersed in a bustling schedule, juggling work, travel, and the whirlwind of being one of Hollywood's most followed actors. We hop on Zoom a couple of weeks after she finished a major Foot Locker and Adidas campaign where, under the sweltering New York sun, she adeptly shot various looks from the back of a delivery truck. In spite of her busy life, Tung remains impressively down-to-earth. Whether discussing her go-to Adidas sneakers, the artists and writers who influence her, or the timeless Cher ensembles she still reminisces about, she exudes the excitement of someone who genuinely appreciates what she loves.

      This enthusiasm seems to come from her diverse interests. Besides acting, Tung is a passionate reader, a fan of vintage fashion, and someone who keenly observes the creative women who have influenced culture over time. That’s why her current summer reading list features a classic title by Patti Smith, and conversations about personal style swiftly turn to themes of self-expression, storytelling, and individuality. Ahead, Tung invites us into her life—from her adorable dog Bodie and her favorite classic '90s TV show that she always revisits, to her fashion inspirations and essential items she currently adores. What does an average day look like for you?

      Every day is quite different at the moment. I just completed my second Adidas campaign last week, so I woke up at 6:30 a.m., which isn’t my usual routine, but it was refreshing to get up early and watch the sunrise. I arrived on set, went through hair and makeup, and shot the campaign. Fortunately, we had lovely weather in the morning; it started to rain later. We wrapped up around 5:30 p.m., and I met up with a close friend for dinner. It was a wonderful day because I got to enjoy my time on set and then catch up with friends. I’ve been making an effort to spend time with friends since I returned home.

      You became an overnight sensation with The Summer I Turned Pretty. How did that moment change your outlook on your career and the opportunities you wish to pursue? It changed everything, obviously, and that's what has shaped my career. I am truly grateful for it. Every actor aspires to take on diverse projects, so if I’m fortunate, I want to work on projects that are completely different from one another. I’m starting to have the chance to do just that, which is incredibly enjoyable.

      You recently appeared in Forbidden Fruits, where audiences get to see a new side of you and a character you haven’t portrayed before. What attracts you to a role? I can’t pinpoint just one thing. It's about having a compelling script and interesting characters that are well-defined, which was true for Forbidden Fruits. A character like Belly was intriguing to me because she has such a vibrant inner life that is evident throughout the show. Also, connecting with directors or filmmakers you resonate with is a good indicator of a worthwhile role.

      You’re no stranger to Broadway. You played Eurydice in Hadestown a few years ago. Is there another dream Broadway character or show you'd love to be part of? It’s amusing because I didn’t even realize it, but a couple of years before Hadestown, I mentioned that Eurydice was my dream role. It’s all about manifestation! I adored the show; it was my ideal Broadway debut. I cherish that character, the music, and the people involved with the production. The welcome I received was the warmest, and everyone was amazing. I’m not sure how I could top that. I would love to be in a new show. There are so many incredible new female playwrights creating remarkable pieces. I think instantly of John Proctor Is the Villain, so something fresh would be so exciting—something I haven’t even imagined yet.

      As we transition into a new season—full of new beginnings—are there any style explorations you’re looking forward to right now? I enjoy when the weather warms up and everyone starts wearing jorts. It marks the beginning of summer fashion. I’m pulling out my little Adidas Samba Janes too. I love rediscovering my style for warm weather. When summer comes, I think, “I don’t have