Retail Therapy: January’s Monthly Wish List

The start of the year often comes with more than just a new gym membership – it also brings an especially long wishlist.

Jan 26, 2025

The jacket that could solve all our luggage problems
The cheapest (and best) jeans on the market
The perfect carry-on bag that can hold both your stuff and your kid's
A sweat set that leaves the door open for an upgrade on the plane
And so much more!

Yes, I, too, started the year with plenty of (style-related) resolutions, but when it comes to shopping, things have been surprisingly tame – for my standards. Until now! For months, we’ve been toying with the idea of a world trip – and now we’re actually planning it, and it’s happening soon. I am so excited!

Since then, my brain has been completely consumed by questions like: ‘Which pants should I pack? How do I fit everything into one suitcase for more than two months? What else does my son need? And I cannot forget XY!’ Basically, my entire world revolves around my packing list.

And while I really want to save every cent for this trip, I can’t help but notice how my subconscious is trying to convince me that I need a ton of items for the perfect travel wardrobe.

So, my wishlist is currently growing longer and longer – and honestly, I’m not sure if I’d even want half of these pieces if it weren’t for the trip. So, let’s dive into my inner thoughts together!

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Top of My Wish List: A Jacket That Does It All!

A jacket that does it all? Jackets are always the ultimate packing challenge for me – they’re bulky, heavy, and take up so much space. You really have to limit yourself! While we’ll mostly be in warm climates during our trip, it can still get chilly at night or rainy at times.

Not only did one jacket make it onto my wishlist, but it’s already landed in my cart: the workwear jacket with a contrast collar from Arket. It’s lined, looks durable, and can be styled with almost anything – without leaning too much into the ‘sporty-outdoor’ vibe. What do you think, was this a smart choice?

A big tote for carry-on?

Yes, January was all about handbags, and I haven’t changed my mind — the Toteme bucket bag is still at the very top of my wishlist. But with so many upcoming flights, I’m starting to wonder: Do I also need a GIANT bag for carry-on? One that can hold an iPad, a million toys for my son, snacks, a change of clothes, etc.? (Do airlines even allow bags that size anymore, on top of a carry-on suitcase? Probably not ...)

While I’m absolutely drawn to the sleek designs of Little Liffner bags, my practical side is whispering that dropping €600 before a big trip isn’t the wisest move. The Sézane option might be a slightly more budget-friendly choice ...

The Sweat Set That Allows For An Upgrade (wishful thinking with a toddler)

When I say my brain is completely consumed by this trip, I really mean it. We’ve got a whole lot of long-haul flights with a toddler ahead of us (send tips, please!), so I definitely want to dress comfortably – but still look a little stylish.

The sweat set from Arket seems like the perfect solution. With modal, it’s bound to be super soft – and brown is my current favorite color anyway. Plus, it’ll blend seamlessly into my travel wardrobe, even beyond the airport!

Instead Of Sneakers, Just Loafers?

Ha, I’ve set a trap for myself – because I can feel my subconscious hunting for a new pair of sneakers for the trip. BUT NO! I’ll pack my SL72s in Bordeaux and NOT keep searching (I’m saying this to myself like a mantra).

I adore my brown penny loafers from Maje, but they’re far too uncomfortable to justify bringing them on such a long journey where I’ll be walking nonstop. So ... should I start looking for loafers again? G.H. Bass makes the perfect pairs – they’ve never let me down!

The Best, Cheapest Jeans Of My Life!

This is another purchase that didn’t just make it onto my wishlist – it’s already on my body. A new pair of jeans from Loulou de Saison wasn’t exactly in the budget so close to the trip, but J.W. Anderson’s drop for Uniqlo came at just the right time. I had already seen so many rave reviews of the jeans on TikTok that I couldn’t resist. And I’m really happy with my light-wash pair—for just €39.90! These are definitely making it into the suitcase!

The never-ending search for a brown leather jacket

I can already feel your eye-rolls, as I already own two beautiful brown leather jackets: a suede blazer and a cropped brown jacket with a contrast collar. So why am I still looking? Well, I just want a sportier version in brown, one that leans more towards the casual side of my style and provides a good contrast to my more elegant pieces. This one from Soeur looks pretty perfect!

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 on Wednesday:

Next week, we’ll dive into a current coat trend and explore whether fur (or the fur look) can be considered morally acceptable. I know – it’s a hot topic bound to stir up plenty of emotions!