The theme for this particular roundup: summer leisure and luxury. Think 80s glamour, beach bungalows, cerulean and cobalt blue bikinis, banana and coconut scented sun creams, tanning with a glossy magazine, block parties and cookouts, well-kept country club lawns and courts, listening to jazz over martinis with the window cracked, cranked ACs in hotel and movie theatre lobbies. The good life is attainable this summer.
The Great Gatsby: The Jazz Recordings (A Selection of Yellow Cocktail Music from Baz Luhrmann’s Film The Great Gatsby)
The 2013 film soundtrack but with 1920s jazz instrumentals. I’m particularly fond of “Young and Beautiful” and “Daisy’s Theme.” Excellent music for when you are cooking dinner or getting dolled up to go out.
You don’t even have to buy anything, though you might be tempted. Reading the product descriptions and looking at the 70s/80s-inspired photography alone should set you up with the serious luxury mindset.
Tuz Anya a short film by Petra Collins, starring Alexa Demie
For those keen on a fantastical escape, check out this project from Petra Collins and Alexa Demie building off the world they created with their book Fairy Tales. Despite the elf-eared Demie’s snow-laden bedroom, there is a hot-weather-feel that I attribute to the costuming: denim cut-offs, skimpy tanks and lacey bodysuits. An ethereal masterpiece.
”Paradise Without a Plane Ticket” by Stephanie Kuehnert for Rookie Mag (Paradise, June 2012)
Moving forward, I’ll probably reference Rookie Mag frequently. I can’t believe it’s been over ten years since I was a high school girl, religiously studying these texts. You’ll likely find this article reminiscent of “my guide to a chic and cool summer,” but with additional suggestions to construct your own personal paradise.
The Black Swan Inn themed rooms
Specifically the Atlantis Under the Sea suite with the wall-mounted aquarium and pillared bed. I’m a major advocate for themed hotel rooms. We need more of them. Book a night at the Black Swan Inn next time you’re in Idaho.