Katie's Top Ten | July
From salty air to soulful reads and Spotify bops, here’s what’s been on my mind, in my bag, and keeping me company in Southern Italy.
Buongiorno from Puglia, Italy! We’re soaking up some much-needed family time, and I’m feeling deeply grateful for the pause. But I didn’t want to roll into July without sharing this month’s Top Ten. (If you missed June’s list, you can catch up here.) This edition is all about Puglia… picture turquoise waters, sun-warmed stone streets, endless pasta, and the salty breeze off the Adriatic. I’m taking a quick break from the sun to share what’s been on my mind, what made it into my suitcase, and what’s been keeping me entertained. La dolce vita, friends.
On My Mind…
1. Travel Invites Reflection
Travel always invites reflection for me. I think about how we show up in the world and what we carry with us, both in our suitcases and in our hearts. As a multiracial family, I often wonder how a place will receive us. Will my kids see others who look like them? Will they feel safe, seen, and celebrated? But no matter if we blend in or stick out, I know that we belong, because we are worthy exactly as we are, wherever we are.
While I always want to model being authentically me, I also welcome the discomfort that can come with new places… the stretch it brings, the awareness it stirs. Each trip expands my view of the world and of myself and our family. That’s part of the gift. I always return home changed, having learned something new about how people live, love, and make space for one another.
And yes, I think about all of this even while packing! What I choose to bring with me reflects what matters to me. I believe how we spend our money matters, and I want the things that spark joy to also align with my values. I am sharing a few of these favorites below!
2. Leaning Into the Awkward
A close friend recently suggested I start showing photos of myself actually wearing the pieces I spotlight from Black-led brands. My first reaction? Ummm… awkward! But I get it. I want to bring these beautiful items to life, and show you that I truly wear and love what I share here.
So on this trip, I leaned into the awkward and uncomfortable, and turned the camera on myself! I have always had a silly, playful side, so that’s the vibe I brought to documenting myself: a little awkward, a little joyful, and fully me. I joined Substack to share my passions and help create the world I want to live in, not necessarily to show my face… but here we are. I guess I have to keep growing and changing as well.
In My Beach Bag…
3. My Beach Read: Token Black Girl by Danielle Prescod
I love reading memoirs, especially ones that offer a window into experiences very different from my own. Danielle Prescod’s story is just that. She writes about growing up Black in a mostly white, elite world, and how the pressure to fit in shaped everything from her hair to her career in fashion and beauty. Like me, she was raised on Teen Vogue, Vanity Fair, and Seventeen, so her references to the media landscape of my youth really hit home. But, unlike me, she rarely saw herself reflected on those pages.
Her memoir is a powerful reflection on identity, perfectionism, and the quiet harm of shrinking yourself to fit someone else’s mold. It’s reminding me just how influential media images are, and how much work we still have to do to ensure what we consume is diverse, celebratory, and truly female-friendly.
Danielle’s just released a new fictional novel, The Rules of Fortune, which was picked up by none other than actor, writer and producer Mindy Kaling. So naturally, I’ve already ordered my copy and will report back!
4. Good Weather Skin – The One Daily Sun Cream
Sun protection is non-negotiable for me these days, and I’m picky about what I put on my skin. Good Weather Skin is a new favorite: a zinc-based mineral sunscreen that feels more like skincare than SPF. A new beach bag staple. You can grab a bottle at Nordstrom, or directly from their site.
In My Carry-On…
This itty bitty bag brings me so much joy. The playful pompoms, the rich blue hue (my forever summer favorite), and the fact that it fits right into my carry-on makes it a travel MVP. Plus, it’s totally unique. I haven’t seen anyone else carrying it, and it elevates every dinner look with just the right pop of personality.
6. Stella Jean One-Shoulder Top
Of course I packed this beauty! I scooped up this Stella Jean top on Shopbop, and it’s fun, breezy, and a little extra in the best way. Back home in foggy San Francisco, a one-shoulder top might feel a little out of place… but in Puglia? It’s perfetta. Fashion is more fun when you let yourself play.
I talk about LemLem a lot, and for good reason! Founded by Ethiopian Supermodel Liya Kebede, the brand celebrates the incredible weaving traditions of her home country. I’ve been lucky enough to visit Ethiopia and see these artisans at work, and it was unforgettable. My handwoven caftan (linked to a similar one) is a favorite, and their colorful, well-made swimwear (my pick is this one) always makes it into my suitcase. Fashion with a purpose? Always yes.
My oldest daughter, Livvy, is all about her beachy waves, and these travel-sized Pattern Beauty products are her go-to. She was traveling with friends before meeting us in Puglia and specifically asked me to bring her more… which, of course, I did. The line was created by the fabulous Tracee Ellis Ross (daughter of Diana Ross) and works beautifully for all hair types.
Keeping Me Entertained…
My fifteen-year-old daughter Zoe is the undisputed Queen of Spotify in the Colley Casa. I asked her if I could share her most recent playlist, and she agreed. So press play and vibe out! (Warning: explicit lyrics. The kids like what they like, right?)
If you grew up reading Judy Blume like I did, then you have to check out Forever on Netflix. It’s based on Judy Bloom’s iconic novel and reimagined for today by the brilliant Mara Brock Akil (read her NYT profile!). The show follows a group of teens navigating love, identity, and all the awkwardness in between. My close friend recommended it to me, and she gave me a spot on recommendation! (Side note: anyone else remember the classic literary gem from Blume’s Are You There God? It’s Me, Margaret… “we must, we must, we must increase our bust”… or just me?!?) Netflix and Chill with Forever, friends!
That’s a wrap on my July Top Ten: Puglia Edition! Whether you're traveling far or staying close to home this summer, I hope something on this list brings a spark of beauty or inspiration your way. As always, thank you for being here and for caring about the people and stories behind the things we wear, read, and love.
xo,
Katie
P.S. I am going to enjoy the rest of our vacation and skip my usual Thursday post. See you next Monday. Ciao!