July Favourites 2026: Books I Loved, Skincare Finds & Slow Summer Living

There’s something about summer that always makes me want to slow down and savour things a little more, and this year I’ve felt especially drawn back to long-form content, cosy routines and those simple little moments that make everyday life feel calmer.

So, here’s a little round-up of what I’ve been loving in July, from the books I couldn’t put down to a skincare find I’ll definitely be re-ordering.

Long-form content (comfort watching)

In a world of instant everything, I’ve been craving long-form content again. I’ve always been a YouTube gal, and I love having a longer video on while I potter around the house.

Two channels I’ve been really enjoying lately are Josie Irons and Bus Off with Josie. They couldn’t be more different — one is beautiful Cotswolds home life, the other is full-on van life, but both feel so comforting because they’re just… authentically themselves. That kind of content is always the most relaxing to watch, isn’t it?

Reading (my favourite habit to come back to)

I’m still absolutely loving reading, and I’m genuinely proud of myself for throwing myself back into it. I wanted to be more intentional this year, and reading has become a big part of that.

This month I read:

• Conversations with Friends by Sally Rooney
• Dark Salt Clear: Life in a Cornish Fishing Town by Lamorna Ash

I adored both, for totally different reasons. Lamorna Ash writes about Cornwall in a way that feels so true to me. I spent most of my childhood summers there, so it will always have a special spot in my heart.

And Sally Rooney… she just writes characters and relationships in a way that’s completely addictive, even when they’re not exactly likeable.

Skincare (a summer bodycare favourite)

I’m definitely a creature of habit with skincare, but I get a GlossyBox each month, so I often discover new products that become proper favourites.

One of those is the “What’s in it for me…?” body lotion, the scent is incredible and it’s inspired by the coast. It’s one of those smells that I know will always remind me of summer.

With the heatwaves we’ve been having, my skin has really needed a bit of extra TLC, and this has done the job — so I’ll be re-ordering as soon as it’s empty.

Magnesium (a new little habit)

Another thing I’ve been trying to be more intentional about lately is adding magnesium into my diet. I’ve been drinking the Skip drinks with added magnesium, and they’ve been such a refreshing little find, especially in this heat. It’s a really easy way to get a magnesium boost without having to take it in tablet form, and it’s become one of those small daily habits that feels simple but genuinely helpful. I love that these are stocked in Home Bargains too – which means I can pick them up easily!

Slow living (summer holiday pace)

It’s the summer holidays, which for me as a secondary art teacher means I’m on holiday too and I love the slower pace it brings.

Term time is 110 miles an hour (including the weekends), so even though it’s still been a busy summer holiday so far, being able to do things at your own pace is something I’ve really loved. I always feel more at peace when life slows down a little.

Flip 7 (our new family obsession)

Speaking of the summer holidays, the card game we’ve been loving as a family is Flip 7 — it’s addictive.

I also live with a very competitive family… so while it can sometimes end in arguments, we’re having lots of fun all the same. If you’re going away on holiday (or even just want something easy for home), definitely add this one to your collection.

Summer evenings & sunsets

Even though the heat is taking its toll, we’ve been treated to some spectacular sunsets lately. Every evening when I look up and see those colours, I feel instantly calmer, like all my worries melt away.

Honestly, it’s the best therapy… and so grounding.

I’d love to hear what you’ve been loving recently — tell me in the comments.

K Elizabeth xoxox

*Skip drinks were kindly gifted & post contains Affiliate Links