Good morning!
As you open this email, I’ll be somewhere on the road between Victoria and Calgary, driving through the Rocky Mountains with a good friend. We’re taking a long-weekend girls’ trip to the city she’s soon to call home! I’m excited to explore the bookshops and cafes, wander through the art gallery, and go on walks along the river.
Collection No. 4 is packed full of goodies! Including my fall mood board, a natural tanning product that I’m completely obsessed with, two four-star reads, and as always, a handful of artsy things I’ve been loving. First up, here’s a little song to set the scene…
I redo the mood board in my office at the start of each new season, but fall is always the one I take most seriously. It’s my September Issue.
This year I wanted it earthy and muted, but still rich—deep browns, dusty pinks, black, and cream. A little mysterious and sensual with notes of dark academia, Scandinavian library, and a touch of strangeness to keep it from feeling too polished.
I love how each day something new stands out. It’s basically my elaborate way of declaring who I want to become over the next three months.
Lauren’s List
Coco Mellors revealed the cover of her new novel!
A townhouse filled with gorgeous details.
Still swear by Magnesi-Om before bed.
I have freckles now.
Upgraded my shower razor to this chic chrome one.
The cutest addition to a tea party.
Tiramisu overnight oats + this simple bread and bean soup.
An in-depth look at Yves Klein blue.
This classic navy wool sweater and gorgeous chocolate gingham shirt.
Daisy Edgar-Jones’ press tour wardrobe has been amazing.
Recent Reads
On the Calculation of Volume (I) by Solvej Balle (2024) — translated from Danish by Barbara Haveland.
Tara Selter has somehow become trapped in November 18th. Everyone around her continues to experience the day for the first time, while Tara alone remembers all the November 18ths that came before. I really loved this strange little book. The premise hooked me right away, and I was surprised by how philosophical it became—about time, routine, memory, and all the markers we use to understand where we are in our lives. Although the ending didn’t satisfy me, it now makes sense as I found out it was the first of a seven-book series(!). I likely won’t dive into the next volumes right away, but I really did enjoy my time with this one.Martyr! by Kaveh Akbar (2024).
I was tasked with the inaugural two-women book club pick this month… and I knew right away, it had to be this. The novel follows Cyrus Shams, a young Iranian American poet who becomes consumed by the idea of martyrdom while trying to make sense of his mother’s death and his own complicated relationship with grief, addiction, and meaning. I’m just about finished and really enjoying it—the writing is fantastic. We’ll be scheduling our little club meeting next week, so I’ll report back with final thoughts. *Update: we both rated this book five stars!
My Latest Obsession
I realize I am late to this party. Very late.
As someone who buys the lightest shade (truly the 001) in most makeup brands, and goes directly from porcelain white to red (skipping all the desired tan shades in between) during sun exposure, I accepted my pale girl fate many years ago.
Then Saltyface walked into my life in early September with its natural ingredients, no-stain formula, and super cute packaging, and who was I to turn up my nose? I’ve been using the Tanning Water and Freckle Paint for the past few weeks and honestly, it’s giving me a whole new persona. I’ve received a few compliments, I’ve caught myself looking in the mirror and thinking…cute, and I that’s really all it took. Pale girl approved.
Art I’ve Been Loving
I hope you’ve had a cosy week.
I have fully committed to autumn at this point—possibly the best season for reading. Did anyone catch the Booker shortlist livestream on Tuesday? I was a little surprised, but very curious to see who takes the cake.
Thank you for being here. I’m so grateful that you spend a little part of your day with me. Enjoy your weekend and as always, I’d love to hear from you! Tell me…
Have you read anything from this year’s Booker longlist or shortlist? I’ve got a copy of Switzy that I’m excited to dive into.
x Lauren
I am obsessed with every mood board you share, they are always so lovely! And, as a fellow pale girl, I thank you for the tanning water suggestion. It looks perfect — subtle and natural. I have a lot of natural freckles, so usually a freckle tan is the only way I can get color in the summer but I've been so much more diligent about sun protection the last few years that I don't get as many.
SO excited for Coco Mellors' new book!