August: Reading, watching, shopping, etc.
A small selection of my media and literal consumption habits
This August, I haven’t been reading much, and I haven’t been watching too much either, due to instead walking 15,000 steps a day taking in the sights and surrounds of the cities we’ve been in. It’s a tough job, but someone has to do it.
What has been included here are the highlights; the cream of the crop, the books, films, items (and more) that rose to the top of my list – the ‘best of’ of August 2025. Add them to your own lists and tell me how they go.
And, if you have already seen/read/used them, share your thoughts with me in the comments. I love the little community we have here.
Watching
Casablanca
Between plane, train, long automobile journeys, there were a selection of films I wanted to watch this summer while transiting and one was Casablanca. I feel like a bit of a div recommending one of the most critically lauded films of all time, regularly ranked the best film ever made. But, if I am the one that tips you over the edge to watch it, then this has all served a purpose! All I’ll add to the commentary is there’s a reason it has had such praise heaped on it.
Fit for TV: The Realty of the Biggest Loser on Netflix
Watching this felt like a fever dream. Did we really sit and watch this show? Speaking to some friends this week, we discussed how we had forgotten the humiliating rituals the contestants were put through essentially for our viewing. The lack of after care and the lack of actually listening to medical professionals on the show is troubling to say the least. Only three episodes long, one to put on when you want a break from the true crime documentaries, or the Dallas Cowboys Cheerleaders.
Reading
Big Feelings by Amy Lovat
Big Feelings is billed as an anti-romantic comedy and I couldn’t have put it better myself. The story follows Sadie as she recounts her romantic past set against her current situation of a relationship that has seemingly run its course. I found the emotional depth Amy was able to convey really hit me, particularly through the latter half of the book. Shed a tear in those last few pages.
Everything I Know About Love by Dolly Alderton
This is now officially my holiday read. Last summer and this summer, I revisited Dolly’s memoir. I first read it while at university in the UK and every time I have read it – at different ages and stages – there are parts of the book that hit me completely different to last, with Dolly’s experiences and growth as the pages progress taking me along with her through what life has thrown her way. Tears, laughs, suspense, it is truly a book that has it all. Enjoyed all the more when perched poolside in Greece.
Shopping
Mecca Cosmetica To Save Face SPF 50+ Serum
Those who have subscribed for some time will know I am an avid sunscreen wearer – it’s the Australian in me – and you would know I was an avid Ultra Violette sunscreen wearer. I’ll spare the details (look on the brand’s Instagram for more info) but I have currently halted my use of their sunscreen and transitioned back to Mecca Cosmetica’s To Save Face range. My personal preference is the serum formula, which leaves a dewy finish and is a dream to apply, gliding across the skin with ease and very little rubbing needed to ensure it is evenly spread.
I recently purchased a cream handbag from Marni, to match a pair of cream sandals I own. Well, scrolling on Vestiaire late one night last week, I came across a pair of never worn Valentino cream block heels. One accepted – and very lowball – bid later, they’re now on the way to me. Some may think they’re a bit vecchia, but I think they’re chic, timeless and if my previous experience with Valentino heels is anything to go by, will be very comfortable.
Liking
Richard E Grant on Instagram
Do you follow Richard E Grant on Instagram? If you don’t, what is wrong with you? Travel, film and interiors content aplenty, there’s something for everyone. Recently, Richard went to Naples and vlogged his time there, as well as Tuscany. I may have drunkenly commented on some of these vlogs. But how can one resist when they are so immersive and you can tell he’s put in such effort to make them? And always finished with his infectious smile.
