For Slow Summer Days: What to Watch, Read, and Try Based on Your Personality
Shows, books, and trends to pass time in the summer by personality type. Fun personality quiz included! Consider your consultation booked.
Summer is halfway done. Travel has been booked, or has already happened. Late nights out remain at the mercy of whimsy.
But what happens between the itinerary and the whimsy?
The moments that add sweet texture to the summer time, when whiling away with, perhaps, a popsicle in hand or a beach towel under your bum in the backyard just to catch some vitamin D? In those sweet moments, one needs a companion: a book, a podcast, a show.
Enter: The Consultation. A monthly curation of recommendations based on three vibes, or personalities, for the season (that change every season). It’s like your seasonal horoscope, but for what to watch, read, and try.
THE PERSONALITIES:
The Popsicle: You’re not stressing much this season, allowing yourself to slowly de-thaw under the warmth of the sun. You’re opting for leisure, sweetness. You’re the icy cool break from the action.
The Sprinkler: You’re energized, ready to run around and immerse yourself in summer fun. You’re saying yes to a lot, and soaking up all that this season has to offer. This is really your season.
The Bikini: You’ve embraced the fact that summer means less layers. Vulnerability is not unfamiliar to you. In fact, you wear it so gracefully that it draws others to you. And you look hot, too. That’s a plus.
Can’t decide which resonates most, or want to be sure?
So, here’s what I recommend for the summer:
THE POPSICLE
TV Show: The Testaments (Hulu)
Perhaps you’re late to The Testaments’ train, like I am, because your watch list is simply too long. And now, you want to cool down. But it’s not giving brain freeze. No…you want something that’ll make you think.
Book: Hardly Strangers by A.C. Robinson
A summer romance to keep you company.
Fashion: You’ll need a good tote bag, like this tote from Rupal Brand, to pack all of your necessities while you hide under the shade. You also need matching shades, like these sunnies from Jimmy Fairly, to block the sun. Also, you’re rocking popsicle red so that, even in the shade, they don’t miss you.
Film: Battle of Algiers
A beautiful, heartbreaking work of art that requires your full attention. Good thing you’re not moving much this summer, because you’ll need time to unpack this.
Podcast Episode: One of the coolest comedy creators of our generation, listen to Schitt’s Creek creator, Dan Levy, on Bella Freud’s Fashion Neurosis.
Salon Talk Episode: Reflect on your friendships and Check out what Mariah and Evan have to say.
Article: Maybe you’re cooling off because, deep down, you know a new era is loading:
THE SPRINKLER
Book: Society As I Have Found It by Ward McAllister
Every social butterfly needs this pre-Gilded Age guide to being the ultimate socialite. Grab pen and paper, take notes.
TV Show: Neighbors (HBO Max)
You really just need entertaining background noise while you go about your busy life. This accomplishes both. Because it’s ridiculously entertaining.
Film: Blow-Up (1966)
A niche conversation starter featuring Jane Birkin to spice up your summer socializing. And perhaps discuss the infantilizing roles of women in certain films belonging to the “Swinging Sixties” era of filmmaking.
Fashion: You need a top worth talking about while you socialize your way through the season, like the Yuki Top by Hertunba. A top and an accessory all in one.
Podcast Episode: Another topic starter – hear behind the scenes of Subway Takes from Kareem Rahma on The Town.
Salon Talk Episode: You are about to be outside. Date smart, friends. Check out what Sunny, Evan, and Mariah have to say about this.
Article: More research on the socialite class in this journal article from Social Problems Vol. 28, No. 1 (Oct., 1980): “The Rise of American Boarding Schools and the Development of a National Upper Class.”
THE BIKINI
Book: The Summer I Turned Pretty Trilogy by Jenny Han
Secretly, you want to cry. So just read all three. Also, it’s worth cramming a reread ahead of the long-awaited movie’s premiere.
TV Show: Love Story (FX)
If you’ve already watched it, rewatch it. And weep.
Film: The Invite
Speaking of being exposed…
Fashion: Maxi cover ups with a mermaid-like allure give mystery and playful at the same time like this dress or this dress, both from superdown.
Podcast Episode: Every it-girl should know the history of the Archie comic’s beloved Betty and Veronica, so hear more about their influence on fashion on Articles of interest.
Salon Talk Episode: Vulnerability means bravery, bravery means not quitting. Hear Mariah’s take on exactly that.
Article: Be sure to keep moving:
If you liked this, you’ll also like:
Now, enjoy watching, reading, and trying new things in the summer time! Comment your Summer vibe below, and what you’re excited to try.
Every season, the personalities will shift, because, well, we shift. So, take what resonates and we’ll see you soon.
If you loved this, hit the heart. If you relate, drop a comment. If you think the world needs this, share it. If you’ve made it this far, and enjoyed what you read, consider tipping me with a coffee (matcha)!
Thanks for visiting the Njoy Salon. See you at your appointment next week!
xoxo, Neima
instagram: @neima.tenay
tiktok: @njoynei
Njoy Salon is here to help you build a creative life you njoy as you navigate the coming of age and the “coming to” of life. We curate content and timely discussions to be your partner in crime during growth spurts and life transitions. As a certified eldest daughter and your internet big sis, I discuss culture and trends from odd angles, ways to learn and relearn ourselves, and resources to navigate culture, art, fashion, entertainment, and literature for when you’re ready to level up.