Holidays are over, and we’ve crash-landed into this chaotic place called everyday life: emails that won’t quit, meetings that multiply like rabbits, and the ceaseless creation of new collections. Some days, though, reality decides to double down, and you’re hit with an inexplicable, slightly deranged urge to do it all. To squeeze 48 hours into 24 while convincing yourself you’ve got this. But let’s talk strategy, because the answer is yes (kind of). For those relentless days, we’re giving you 3 personal style ideas (+ our survival kits) designed to take you smoothly from desk to drinks, without sacrificing precious seconds or even stopping home to change.
Alexandra’s Outfit + Kit
I can’t remember the last time I left the house early in the morning and made it back before 10 p.m. If it’s not a work event, it’s a movie night, an exhibition, or a midweek dinner with friends (which I prefer, ‘cause weekend dinners are overestimated and always crowded). That’s why I need smart outfits that work overtime: understated and perfectly nonchalant. The kind of look that is just put-together enough to fool the world into thinking you have your life together :)
A suit is the ultimate wardrobe safety net - reliable, easy, always appropriate. But because I like to think of myself as smart (and like my outfits even smarter), I swapped the classic trousers for long shorts. Just as sharp, but with a little extra personality. I tucked in a black turtleneck, which I’d argue is the sartorial equivalent of good posture (it instantly makes you look chic no matter what). To deal with the knee-to-ankle dilemma, I opted for knee-high leather boots, a combo with long shorts that I’ve been practically living in this winter.
To finish my look, the QOJIN black midi coat because cold weather demands layers, and black demands black.
Of course, an outfit alone isn’t enough to survive a long day. The real secret is my survival kit (the things I always, always, always carry with me to save my sanity).
First, my classic written planner. Sure, Google Calendar is great, but as a ’90s kid, I need a hard copy. Then there’s my coffee bags, because espresso is the only thing keeping the morning, afternoon, and evening versions of me motivated. Paired with a reusable mug (americano stays hot, cold brew stays cold, we love efficiency), I’m set.
Black-lens sunnies are non-negotiable, especially for the days when my gaze says, “don’t even!”. AirPods? Always in. A stress ball lives in my hand too, mainly to “keep the dumbfuckery to a minimum.” And this magical tiger head oil balm I picked up in China and its goodbye headache. Shockingly effective.
For cosmetics, I keep it tight: a Korean hand cream with a subtle scent I love (cypress leaf, cold metal and white musk), a cherry perfume I fell for the moment I smelled it, and a dark burgundy lipstick that doubles as a blush. Oh, and classic mints, because if I’m obsessive about anything, it’s smelling nice. THAT’S IT!
Stella’s Outfit + Kit
There are so many days (I think 3 per week by now) that I attend an event right after work that I’ve become some kind of an expert in Day-to-Night dressing.
I simply ADORE our Μάρλας trousers so much. I’m a big fan of trousers, and the fabric and fit of these are just perfect—comfortable enough for working during the day, yet laid-back and polished for evening activities. Styled here with our Qhoa shirt of the same fabric, a black turtleneck-to keep me warm- and my favourite vintage fish brooch. So what do we have here? We have warmth, we have comfort, we have put-togetherness(!) and we also have a fun brooch to make up for my lack of other jewellery.
Our Mule Skinner trench-coat is perfect for when I want to feel like investigating something under the rain.
As you might have guessed from my kit I’m not much of a make up person so naturally, I don’t carry anything beauty related with me ever, except from my miraculous Aesop hand cream, as my hands tend to get really dry. I never leave the house without my water bottle and reusable coffee cup and I searched and searched until I found an aesthetically pleasing one, so thank me later (or now, fine by me)…to go with my Moleskine carry-everwhere-with-me-notebook and my favourite scarf alternative-I think it’s just genius- worn over or under a coat.
Valisia’s Outfit + Kit
If someone were to tell me that I had to stick to just one activity every single day, my immediate response would be an indignant, “How dare you?” I’m simply not built for monotony or routine—I thrive on variety and seek to pack as much as possible into my day. The concept of waking up and dressing solely for work? That’s far too limiting for me.For me, life is about seizing every opportunity and keeping the momentum going. Most of the time, I don’t even have the luxury of returning home for an outfit change, and truth be told, I prefer it that way. Jumping from one place to the next fuels my energy, and the idea of breaking that rhythm—heading home, only to go back out again—feels like hitting a reset button on my enthusiasm. My days are filled with a whirlwind of activities: a morning meeting, an afternoon class, an evening event, a DJ set, a music rehearsal or simply hanging out with friends. There’s always something happening—or rather, many things happening. You get the idea.Because of this, I naturally gravitate toward outfits that transition seamlessly from morning to evening. It’s not a conscious decision; it’s simply how I’ve adapted to my hectic lifestyle. And, of course, I never leave the house without the right essentials to stay on point, no matter where the day—or night—takes me.
My go-to choice is always a mini full-circle skirt. It strikes the perfect balance between elegance and confidence while allowing for effortless movement without any restrictions. To complement the skirt, I gravitate towards an oversized jacket with bold power shoulders. This combination not only echoes the same themes of elegance and confidence but also adds an empowering edge to the overall look. I’ve always been drawn to the interplay between contrasting elements, and one of my favorite fashion approaches is blending androgynous pieces with a touch of femininity. This Prague jacket is a standout piece in my wardrobe for precisely that reason. Its structured, androgynous silhouette with the detailing of hanging garters, creates a harmonious fusion of strength and subtle sensuality.To complete the ensemble, I pair it with a timeless black wool turtleneck from Benetton—a wardrobe piece that always exudes sophistication. And, of course, I never step out without my signature accessories. The rule for me is simple: the more, the merrier! Accessories are the finishing touch that makes every outfit uniquely mine.
And now, let’s delve into the true essentials—my life saviors, the items I never leave the house without. These are the trusted companions that keep me prepared, polished, and ready for anything. First and foremost, sunglasses and sunscreen are non-negotiables. While sunglasses protect my eyes and add a touch of mystery to any look, sunscreen is the ultimate hero. It is one of the best and easiest ways to protect your skin’s appearance at any age. Given my whirlwind lifestyle, I don’t always have the luxury of straightening my naturally wavy hair (which, frankly, I can’t stand). That’s where leave-in conditioner comes to the rescue helping me combat the ‘Oh so annoying” frizziness. On the days I do take the time to straighten my hair, a dry shampoo is my secret weapon—it keeps my hair and my scalp fresh.
No list of essentials would be complete without my signature fragrance: Nasomatto’s “Black Afghano.” Its intoxicating blend of deep amber, oud, and tobacco notes creates a bold, unforgettable presence. Next on the list are blotting papers, an absolute must for managing my naturally oily skin. They’re a quick, fuss-free way to eliminate unwanted shine and keep my face looking fresh throughout the day. But the true MVP of my arsenal? My beauty bag. With eyeliner, blush, and a bold lipstick tucked inside, I have everything I need to transform my look in an instant. Add a toothbrush and toothpaste (because some essentials speak for themselves), and I’m all set. Lastly, I never forget to carry a book. It’s my antidote to wasted moments—whether I’m navigating public transport or waiting between destinations. A good read turns even the dullest stretches of time into something meaningful.
See you next week!
Alexandra + Stella + Valisia