January was a mix of cosy nights, reality TV, and the occasional family binge. Between late nights at home and quiet moments in the shop, I somehow managed to watch a ridiculous amount of shows and films — so it’s time for my first official HAYM watchlist. Think girly escapism, teenage drama, detective twists, and a bit of trashy background TV for balance.
Here’s what I was watching this month:
Emily in Paris (Season 5) Netflix Link to Trailer
Wonderful light escapism, perfect to lift the mood. The colours, the far-out fashion, the cities I have and want to visit, and those beautiful men - it’s all joy. My friend group is divided on Gabrielle vs Alfie but I am firmly Team Alfie. The way he says “Cooper” alone is worth a rewatch and - he can dance!!
- Rating: 10/10
- Vibe: girly getaway + fantasy fashion
- Best for: sofa watching with snacks
- Multitask score: low (subtitles make multi-tasking tricky)
My Life With The Walter Boys (Season 2) Netflix Link to Trailer
Filled a gap after the pain of Summer I Turned Pretty finishing. Not quite as good, but another love triangle story this time set in Colorado (more cowboy boots than flip-flops). A good teenage series to watch with my daughter, and the cliffhanger at the end means we’ll be watching the next one together.
- Rating: 8/10
- Vibe: teen drama + cosy mother-daughter moments
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Best for: home watching
Stranger Things (Season 5) Netflix Link to Trailer
Not usually a sci-fi fan, but the 80s soundtrack got me hooked five seasons ago. My daughter and I are now completely obsessed and have been impatiently waiting this last season for so long. It did not disappoint. Family watch mostly - some scary bits but amazing characters, storylines, and that finale had me unexpectedly emotional. Loved it so much we have gone back and started again at Season 1.
- Rating: 10/10
- Best for: home binge
- Emotion level: spooked + sentimental
His & Hers (Limited Series) Netflix Link to Trailer
A relatively short detective series with plenty of twists and turns. Must admit, I guessed the end but felt smug about it. A bit far-fetched in parts but still a decent watch.
- Rating: 8/10
- Best for: home or shop background
- Multitask score: high (easy to follow while working)
The Hunting Wives (Season 1) ITVX Link to Trailer
Loved this one. Pretty saucy, so I had to be quick on the pause button in the shop. Set in a glamorous yet dangerous area of Texas, the cast is brilliant and the “who-done-it” storyline kept me hooked.
- Rating: 9/10
- Best for: home or quiet shop watching
- Multitask score: medium (shop caution required)
Love Island (All Stars Season 3) ITVX Link to Trailer
Said I wasn’t going to watch another season of this trash TV… and then I did. Easy watching, background-friendly, though it’s another celeb season where people still haven’t found love. Too invested now, not proud. Could do with more realistic body images and less fake drama.
- Rating: 4/10
- Best for: shop background
- Multitask score: high
The Traitors (Season 4) BBCiPlayer Link to Trailer
Love, love, love this. Family friendly and fabulous format. Don't want to give away any spoilers but another great series with amazing players and some new twists. Claudia's wit and wardrobe alone makes this a 10/10 watch - and she has me considering cutting a fringe back in on every episode.
- Rating: 10/10
- Best for: family time fun
People We Meet On Vacation (Film) Netflix Link to Trailer
A fantastic rom-com, exactly my style. Everything you want: will-they-won’t-they tension, a dramatic dress reveal, and one of the best dance scenes ever. Watched at home because this deserved my full attention.
- Rating: 10/10
- Multitask score: low
Red Eye (Season 2) ITVX Link to Trailer
Loved the first series, and the second didn’t disappoint. Great cast, especially fellow Scot Martin Compston. Slightly predictable at times, and I would have liked a little side love story, but that’s just me. Watched alone but would also be a good partner watch.
- Rating: 8/10
- Best for: home binge or sofa viewing
Overall January Takeaway:
A brilliant mix of escapism, drama, detective twists, teen chaos, and reality TV distraction. Emily in Paris is my perfect girly getaway and Stranger Things gave great family excitement. January, you were brilliantly balanced and I can’t wait to see what February brings.