Around the world in style
... and no, that’s not a metaphor, it’s my actual plan for the next two-and-a-half months!
We're going on a round-the-world trip!
Sounds pretty crazy and surreal, right? And even though we won’t be traveling for six months or a year, I’d say it still counts as a world trip – after all, we are flying all the way around the globe.
Why are we doing this? Well, if you have a toddler, there are countless reasons not to do it. But that has never stopped us before. We want to make the most of our time before school schedules start dictating our lives. And with just one child, a trip like this still feels totally doable.
So, in a rather spontaneous move, we booked our flights – and soon, we’ll be off to Singapore. But that’s just the first stop. And because simply telling you about our route would be far too easy, I’ve turned it into outfit inspirations instead.
Also, I owe you all an apology — I’m a whole week late and have missed two newsletter editions. Planning a world trip, packing (and let’s be honest, panic-buying last-minute essentials), juggling a more-than-full-time job, being knocked out sick twice in the past few weeks, and still making the most of my afternoons with my son … let’s just say, I’m running on fumes.
I can’t promise it won’t happen again, but I can promise this: I would never skip a newsletter without a really good reason!
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Packing for multiple time zones, climates, and seasons
Traveling for two and a half months with a toddler while crossing multiple seasons – summer, autumn, and spring – doesn’t exactly make packing easy. As you might have noticed, I’ve had an imaginary packing list running through my head for months now, not too different from the classic childhood game “I’m packing my suitcase and taking with me…” What we have in common? I’m trying not to forget anything.
Despite the challenge of keeping the luggage as light as possible while still being prepared for all kinds of weather like wind, rain, sun, I’m genuinely excited about packing. After 30 years and countless trips, I’ve developed a solid routine and finally know what I actually wear. Plus, I’ve gotten smart about choosing accommodations with a washing machine. Honestly, I wouldn’t even attempt this trip without one, especially with a little kid in tow.
As soon as I start packing and place the suitcase on the floor, I’ll take you along and share all my packing tips with you. And then, we’ll get down to the nitty-gritty of exactly what you need for a world trip with a toddler, deal?
Now, let’s dive into our travel destinations, with their varying seasons and temperatures.
The Journey is the Destination
Before we escape the German winter, we first have to spend quite a few hours on a plane. And while I’ve never been the type to travel fully styled, this time I’m putting a bit more thought into it – after all, it’s something I’ll be wearing a lot throughout the trip. If you’ve been following my January wishlist closely, this look might seem familiar!
What absolutely cannot be missing on a long-haul flight (aside from my cosmetic bag – but that’s a topic for another time) is a scarf – it always gets chilly! Comfortable shoes, because we have a layover! And, of course, luggage that’s practical, stylish, and durable – and we are so incredibly happy with our two sets from Carl Friedrik!
Singapore: very hot and very cold (thanks to air conditioning)
First Stop: Singapore! I can hardly believe I’m saying this, but aside from my trip to the Maldives, this is my first time in Asia – so I’m preparing myself for both a bit of culture shock and a serious temperature shock.
Mosquito repellent and SPF are packed and ready to go, along with a jacket despite the 35°C heat. I’ve been warned: the air conditioning here is supposedly colder than the North Pole! Other than that, my outfit needs to be light and comfortable – after all, we’ll be exploring the city mostly on foot with an enthusiastic toddler in tow. So, supportive sandals with a proper footbed are an absolute must!
Australia, here we come – summer and early autumn vibes!
Australia has been a dream of mine for so long, and I honestly have to pinch myself that we’ll be there so soon! Of course, we won’t be able to see the entire country (unless we suddenly discover teleportation), but with a road trip, two big cities, and a full week at the beach, I feel like we’re making the most of our time.
Since hiking with a toddler isn’t exactly on the agenda, I’m picturing lots of iced lattes by the ocean, lazy strolls through charming streets, and surfers casually passing by as I soak it all in. Basically, I’ll be channeling my inner hippie, fully embracing my flowy summer dresses and barefoot-on-the-sand lifestyle. Sounds pretty perfect, right?
New Zealand: Warm, but sometimes a bit rough?
It’s still summer in New Zealand, but for some reason, every time I look at our accommodations, I feel cold – they all have fireplaces! So maybe my idea of this trip is completely off, but just in case, I’m packing a cotton knit sweater and a light jacket to be safe.
And even though, as I mentioned, I won’t be doing any serious hiking (or rather, I’m not allowed to), I’ll still be channeling my athletic alter ego with a cap and boat shoes. At least, that’s what I’m telling myself!
Los Angeles: Perfectly in the middle!
Spring in Los Angeles can be anything — blazing hot one moment, unexpectedly chilly the next. After multiple stays there, I’ve come to accept that you can experience at least two seasons in a single day. Layering is the only way to survive.
For the longest time, I avoided anything in olive green, but lately, I’m warming up to it again — especially since it pairs so perfectly with indigo and brown. Looks like LA’s unpredictable weather isn’t the only thing full of surprises!
Palm Springs and the Desert: Hot and Dry!
My boyfriend had just one request: staying in a midcentury house in Palm Springs. But — surprise! — that’s definitely not in our budget. So, as usual, we’ll be exploring the desert around Palm Springs and making day trips into the city instead. At least our place has a pool ... well, technically, a metal tub that proudly goes by the name "Cowboy Pool." But hey, a bikini is packed, so I’m rolling with it!
And of course, even in the desert, it gets freezing at night — so a jacket is always a must!
New York City: Urban and spring-like!
Alright, I’ll be honest with you — New York City is still up in the air! We do have a plan for scoring a great place to stay, but it’s going to take a little luck. The city has gotten insanely expensive, and with Airbnb banned, hotels have a total monopoly — and they’re making the most of it with sky-high prices. So high, in fact, that we can’t (or more accurately, won’t) spend over $3,500 for a week in a shoebox in Manhattan. I mean, I love NYC, but not that much!
But since I’m hopelessly optimistic, I’m already planning my outfit for the final stop of our trip. Fingers crossed for a new Doen dress from LA (please let it be on sale!), which I’ll pair with my suede blazer for that effortlessly chic, strolling-through-the-city look. Manifesting mode: activated!
Here’s a little sneak peek of what’s coming your way on Sunday:
World Premiere! I teased it in my very first Editor's Letter here on Substack, and Sunday is the day: For the first time, I’ll be handing over the reins to another amazing woman — and for a whole week, we’ll get to take a peek into the wardrobe of someone whose style I truly admire. This is going to be a regular series!
And of course, I’ll be joining in from time to time, but before I kick things off with summer looks (I am sorry for you), here’s a little teaser: The very first "7 Days, 7 Ways" is coming straight from the fashion capital of the world! Stay tuned!
Loved this piece! Can’t wait to see these amazing looks in situ. 😍