When I was a kid, my mum would drag me to the bazaars around Mingora, Pakistan. She could browse for hours – inspecting fabric quality, trying on jewellery she knew we couldn’t afford, haggling with vendors. Like most kids, I found it extremely boring.
These days, I’ve become my mum – and my partner, Asser, has taken my place, rolling his eyes and groaning when I want to pop into a store and try on clothes or shoes. In the dressing room, I hand him my phone and he takes pictures to send to my friends’ group chat. I poll as many people as possible before I buy something!
When it comes to buying clothes and shoes, I prefer to shop in person. Almost everything else I buy online. Here’s what’s on my current Wish List right now...
The Notebook That Reminds Me Of My Travels
When I was in Japan a few years ago, I went to a stationery shop and bought a lot of pens and paper products. I need to restock, and I’m going to pick up this notebook from Hobonichi Techo because I have a lifelong obsession with clouds. £43, Hobonichi Techo
The Belated Birthday Gift
I was so busy promoting my book last month that I didn’t have time to get a gift for Asser’s birthday. It has to be something good since I’m late, so I’m thinking about this denim jacket from Rastah, a streetwear label from Pakistan. £302, Rastah
The Lip Balm I Carry Everywhere
I never leave home without this lip balm – there are tubes of it in my bag, my coat pockets, Asser’s pockets, everywhere! Lansinoh makes pregnancy products, but anyone can use them! $14.99 for four, Lansinoh
The Essential Accessory
My eyes are sensitive to light, so sunglasses are essential. I’ll be picking up these EOE frames from Sweden as soon as they’re back in stock. £186, EOE
The Ultimate Brew
I can drink 10 cups of black tea in a day. As I’m about to go on a three-month tour for my new book, I need to fill my suitcase with boxes of Yorkshire Tea. It’s not fancy, but it’s my favourite. From £2, Yorkshire Tea
