Welcome to my very own wishlist for August 2025!
Guys… can we talk about the weather for a minute? I know it’s a clichéd start, but honestly, this summer (if you can even call it that) is killing me. It’s July as I type this, and I’m sitting on my bed in a sweater (!) because it’s only 20 degrees Celsius (68 degrees Fahrenheit) outside. The plants look like they gave up long ago, and I’m a little tired of them, too. And instead of sunscreen, I almost need hand cream again. Constant rain, gray skies, and the occasional three hours of sunshine—that’s it. This isn’t the summer I imagined.
But you know what I’m looking forward to instead? Italy. Sun, sea, Aperol Spritz, the sound of the waves, and hopefully, finally, that lightness I’ve been longing for all of July. I have the feeling my real summer only begins on vacation – and of course, I’ve put together a few very specific things for that on my August wish list.
So here are 7 things I absolutely want to have, do, or experience in August – a mix of fashion, beauty, experiences, and a little soul food. Maybe there’s something there for you, too?
1. A really nice beach bag
– practical and stylish
I resisted it for a long time, but this year I finally want a proper beach bag. One that doesn’t just fall apart when loaded with sunscreen, a water bottle, a book, sunglasses, snacks, and a damp bikini. And most importantly, one that looks good. I’m currently eyeing one from Loewe (yes, I know… pricey, but beautiful!) or a more sustainable version from Poléne —with an ethnic pattern, a bit of an Ibiza vibe, without screaming 2017.
My dream: I’m trudging barefoot through the sand, my bag dangling casually over my shoulder, and inside is everything I need for a perfect beach day. Plus, it looks pretty good on my Instagram feed, too. Win-win.
2. A summer scent
that accompanies me to Italy
I’m a fragrance person – and I love to associate a specific perfume with each vacation. It might sound a bit crazy, but as soon as I smell it again later, it immediately catapults me back. This year, I’m looking for something sunny, but not too sweet. Maybe something with neroli, citrus, and a pinch of salt?
I’m currently testing Replica – Beach Walk by Maison Margiela and Acqua di Parma – Fico di Amalfi. The latter smells like an evening in Positano just before the sun sets, and I’m obsessed. I want to take that feeling with me – even if it’s raining in Austria.
3. A bikini that does everything right
Who knows this? You order five bikinis, three of which don’t fit at all, one is see-through, and the other does weird things to your breasts. Every. Year. Again.
This time, I swore to myself: I’ll invest in a really good bikini. One that not only fits, but one that I also feel comfortable in – whether I’m lying down, swimming, or just staggering back to the beach after my third gelato.
At the top of my list right now is a model from Ninty-9 (I’ve been following the brand since the beginning, and the designs get better every year). I love the combination of simple cuts and sexy details. And the best part? They really hold up – even if you get caught in a wave.
4. Reading material for the soul
– dark, romantic, spicy
For me, vacation is always book time. And by that, I mean real books. Not nonfiction books about productivity or nutrition, but stories you can completely immerse yourself in. This August, I’m in the mood for drama, bad boys, and dark romance. The kind you can really get excited about, sniff away, and with a hint of „What the hell did I just read?“
My list:
– „Onyx Storm – Trust Me“
– „Very Bad Kings“ (part 8 finally!)
– And maybe a reread of „Regents“ because I just can’t get over that toxic, glamorous elite vibe. Coincidentally, the third part finally came out here at the end of July. And I bought it immediately, it´s called „Venator“!
I know it’s not an easy read in the traditional sense – but that’s exactly what I love about it. Perfect for those hours under the umbrella with an ice-cold drink in hand.
5. Glow, Baby, Glow
– Care that saves my skin
If you, like me, struggle with super sensitive skin (hello, eczema), summer doesn’t automatically mean better skin. Sun can help, but salt, chlorine, and heat also bring new challenges. That’s why I pack a small but perfectly formed skincare kit.
– Laneige Lip Sleeping Mask – also for daytime use, because otherwise my lips would dry out immediately.
See the product -> Link
– And this year’s brand new wishlist: the M. Asam Enzyme Body Scrub. I’ve heard so many good things about it – and if it lives up to its promise, I’ll be glowing like a freshly polished peach.
See the product -> Link
6. A dinner with a view
– and the perfect outfit
I’m already dreaming of a dinner on the coast—somewhere where the waves crash right under the terrace, the light is golden, and the white wine is ice-cold. And me? Sitting there with my husband, a plate of pasta, and an outfit that makes me feel 100% me.
My wishlist outfit:
A flowing maxi dress in cream or olive green, gold sandals, a little glow on my cheeks, and hair that „I’ve been by the sea all day“ look. Maybe I’ll find something suitable at & Other Stories or Faithfull the Brand. It should be light, but still scream „wow“—without being too loud.
7. An experience that sticks
I’ve resolved to do at least one thing on vacation that I’ve never done before. Something I can talk about later. Maybe rent a motorboat, head to a secluded bay, and just stay there for an entire afternoon. Maybe an Italian cooking class. Or—crazy as hell—a spontaneous tattoo?
Okay, the latter probably won’t happen (Mom, don’t worry). But something that shows me: I’m really here. I’m experiencing this summer right now—despite everything.
Because that’s what I’ve been missing so far this year. Not just the sun, but that feeling of „Wow, I’ll never forget this.“ And that’s exactly what August is for.
my summary
Summer is coming. Maybe just later.
Yes, this summer is kind of strange. And honestly? It’s okay to be. Not every July has to be 35 degrees, and not every summer day has to be perfectly staged. But what I still want to treat myself to – perhaps precisely because of this strange weather – are small, deliberate highlights. Things that make me happy, inspire me, make me beautiful, or simply do me good. Things that show me: Summer is here. Maybe not outside – but definitely inside me.
And when the Italian sun comes along with it… then all I can say is: Bye, rainy weather. I’m off.
What’s on your August wishlist? Let me know in the comments or send me a message—I’d love to chat!
♡
Vanessa
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