Retail Therapy: February’s Monthly Wish List
You're absolutely right – it's March! But hey, it's never too late for a wish list!
Here’s what you can expect from this issue:
Sunglasses that transport us straight to our happy place
A handbag that might finally be the perfect home for our laptop
The perfect brown cardigan (because the Seventies knew best)
A potential vacation purchase regret—or a hanging hidden gem?
Shoes that cure sneaker fatigue after what feels like a lifetime in Adidas
And so much more!
Oh boy, I feel a little guilty. I love Substack and this space so much, but right now, I just can't keep up with my own perfectionist expectations. But hey who cares? I'm traveling the world, and I refuse to let myself ruin the vibe. And honestly, you probably don’t mind if there’s one, two, or even zero newsletters a week, right? Jet lag and a toddler have completely wrecked our routine and work schedule (zero childcare, by the way), so at this point, I’m just happy if I can squeeze in some work between 10 PM and midnight – without either passing out in front of my laptop or waking up so much that I spend the rest of the night staring at the ceiling.
So this time, I’m not promising to do better – I’m embracing chill mode.
In case you missed my big announcement: I’m currently on a world trip with my husband, kid, and way too much luggage (aka five suitcases). We just landed in Australia after an amazing (and insanely hot) stop in Singapore. Going straight from Berlin winter to tropical heat? Elite climate shock.
Which is also why my wish list is all over the place – different brands, different seasons, total chaos. But hey, that’s life right now!
Disclaimer: This newsletter contains advertisements, as it includes (unpaid) brand mentions. Some links are affiliate links, meaning I earn a small commission if you purchase a product through them. Don’t worry, it doesn’t cost you anything extra!
The bag saga isn’t over yet!
The bag saga isn’t over yet! I still haven’t decided on the one—the new everyday home for my laptop – but hey, let’s throw another contender into the ring. Being in Australia, I’m naturally drawn to Aussie brands right now (bonus: the exchange rate is making them a tiny bit more affordable). And I’ve got both eyes locked on a bag from St. Agni.
Possibly the perfect blend of Bottega and Dragon Diffusion? And, best of all, I’ve never seen it on anyone’s arm before – which makes me love it even more!
A tight, green dress. Who even am I?!
Speaking of Aussie brands – this green dress from Sir The Label is throwing me into a full-on identity crisis. Me? The person who never wears tight things? And yet… I kind of love it?! Maybe the best thing to do is just lean in and celebrate the moment.
This could be my bold dress – the one for events, weddings, or just a random midweek date night. Why not?
My Version of Dorothy’s Shoes
I’m officially bored of my shoe closet! After a major declutter, everything feels way too basic. I’m craving interesting, unique styles – something beyond trends and sneakers. I want shoes that make my outfits feel more me, more special.
So, of course, my first stop is home: Berlin-based brand Aeyde. Their new spring collection? Too good. The kind of selection that makes decision-making painful. Metallics and sculptural shapes are exactly what my wardrobe is missing, so this pair might just be the perfect addition!
An Outfit as Soft as Butter
My current color obsession (besides brown)? Butter yellow. It pairs beautifully with black, Bordeaux, or light blue – so honestly, for me, it’s almost as versatile as black or white. I already have a few butter-yellow pieces (a couple of tees and a handbag), but I need more. And this jacket? It was love at first buttery bite!
The Seventies Want Their Brown Cardigan Back!
I spend a lot of time browsing online shops (occupational hazard), and until now, no brown cardigan has really won me over. But this one? This one might just change the game. It’s relaxed, perfect for spring and those breezy summer days, and the Seventies-style collar? Chef’s kiss. It ticks one of my Allison Bornstein-inspired style boxes.
Paired with great jeans and some standout shoes or loafers, this could totally become my spring uniform.
Stolen Style Inspo
My friend, Substack colleague (and BEIGE teammate)
has amazing style – more on that soon, hint hint. There are quite a few pieces from her wardrobe I’d steal in a heartbeat, like her butter-yellow wool coat (yes, I have a type) or her snakeskin boots.Every time she wears them, I think: That looks so good and so versatile — I need a pair too. And while my collection of knee-high boots is already …extensive, I don’t own a snakeskin pair! Conveniently, I’ll be passing by a Tony Bianco store tomorrow. Fate? I think so.
Potential Vacation Purchase Regret?
You know the feeling. On vacation, you fully embrace the local vibe – style included. And then, back home, unpacking your suitcase, you wonder: What was I thinking?!
Could this knotted leather belt with gemstones be that purchase for me? Possibly. I’m on the fence. But … paired with a white midi skirt and a simple tank top? It could actually be kind of amazing.
The Pilot Sees Everything Through Yellow Lenses
Seeing the world in yellow? Politically not my thing right now – but hey, it’s still better than blue or black.
I’ve been searching for the perfect pair of yellow-lens sunglasses for ages, and I think I just found the one. The shape? Spot on. And honestly, with everything happening in the world, I could use a little extra dose of happy, positive vibes.
Not Another Suede Jacket!!! …Or Maybe?
Did I act too fast last year with my Massimo Dutti suede jacket? Nope. I still love my dark brown one. And honestly? I miss it. A little travel-induced homesickness, you could say.
But… should I have waited for an oversized fit? This one was always sold out, but now it’s back, and my trigger finger is itching – I keep adding it to my cart. If I go for it, I’d size up for that perfectly relaxed drape (and to fit a cozy sweater underneath). Tempting. Very tempting.
Now it’s your turn – what’s on your wish list right now? Do you already own any of the items I’m eyeing, or do you have even better alternatives to share? Let me know in the comments!
Here’s a little sneak peek of what’s coming your way in the next issue:
Lesson Learned: No More Fixed Dates! ⏳✈️ As long as I’m traveling without childcare, I’m done promising specific days or topics. But don’t worry, the next edition is coming soon!