I'm a traditional dresser who excels in packing a carry-on. Here’s everything I brought for a weekend trip.

      Visiting Stockholm in January is akin to entering a snow globe—tranquil, bright, and appropriately cold in a way that's a rarity back home. I traveled for 48 hours with Volvo for the unveiling of their latest electric model, the EX60. While cars typically don’t fit into my daily agenda as a fashion editor, I was eager to see how events would unfold in a city renowned for its design.

      For two days, Villa Dagmar served as my base. It’s one of those hotels that makes you feel polished, even when you're operating on little sleep and a packed carry-on. Upon unpacking, I immediately thought about how I should have included more tailored pieces (don't I always think that?). Nevertheless, limited space meant I focused on essentials: sturdy outerwear, simple layers, and a few items that transitioned easily into the evening. Ultimately, it turned into one of those trips where I wore everything I packed—and felt great in all of it.

      To be honest, snow always strikes me as somewhat novel, so waking up to a snow-covered Stockholm was a highlight before my first cup of coffee. With Volvo, I spent the morning leisurely exploring the city, noting how the streets felt more subdued and soft under the snowfall. There’s a certain charm in getting dressed that feels more intentional, even if it’s simply layering for warmth. A long faux fur coat became my staple; I draped it over everything—knits, jeans, even the most basic outfits—and it instantly made me feel like I’d put in some effort (even when I hadn’t). Below, I prioritized practicality: a cozy jumper, straight-leg jeans, and boots versatile enough to handle icy sidewalks without appearing too clunky. I certainly underestimated the icy conditions at times, which was a lesson learned.

      Most of the day was spent wandering without a strict agenda, strolling through side streets, popping into shops, and randomly trying to find Swedish Fish (which I admit felt like a very specific quest, but I stand by it). I kept noticing the effortless nature of Stockholm style—nothing looks forced, yet everything appears deliberate. It prompted me to reconsider how I often overcomplicate my daily outfits.

      Dinner at Villa Dagmar felt like the right moment to change things up a bit—especially since Volvo organized the evening, adding a special touch. After a day wrapped in layers, I craved something sharper yet comfortable for hours of sitting (which is exactly what we did). I opted for a black trouser suit, a reliable choice for those times when I lack the energy to overthink my outfit. It never fails. I complemented it with sheer tulle gloves, a small detail that elevated the entire look. It’s the type of accessory I don’t wear enough at home but often wish I did.

      The dinner itself was precisely what one hopes for from a hotel restaurant when away—delicious enough that there’s no urge to seek dining elsewhere. I happily devoured the truffle pasta (some decisions don't require prior thought) and finished with the chocolate orange mousse, which I had heard about earlier and couldn’t resist trying. It exceeded my expectations.

      The next morning began with a short, extremely cold walk to a nearby gallery for a behind-the-scenes session with Volvo's design team. My outfit was quite simple: a white shirt over thermals (both practical and essential), knits, and ankle-length jeans. It was one of those outfits that may seem basic on paper but works well in practice. The session itself was surprisingly engaging from a fashion perspective. There was extensive discussion about materials, color palettes, and how Scandinavian design continuously influences Volvo’s work. They referenced Acne Studios, which made sense, given the emphasis on texture, tone, and pieces that feel contemporary without being overly trend-focused. It wasn’t difficult to see parallels between how we view clothing and how they approach interior design.

      Then we were introduced to the EX60, Volvo’s new all-electric mid-size SUV, created to seamlessly fit into daily life without compromises. What impressed me most was the effort made to ensure electric driving feels accessible—something that has always seemed slightly daunting to me. The vehicle boasts a range of up to 810 kilometers on a single charge, able to gain a significant charge within the time it takes for a coffee break, making the concept of long trips feel much more feasible.

      Inside, the atmosphere is calm and deliberate. There’s a focus on natural materials, space, and details that genuinely enhance the experience—more legroom, clever storage, and a sound system that creates an immersive audio experience. The technology exists, yet it doesn’t overshadow the environment. It’s designed to be intuitive, including a new AI system that engages in conversation rather than issuing commands, which I found refreshing.

      What lingered in my mind, however, was how similar this approach is to preparing for a trip like this. You don't need to have excess—just the right items, executed well. Ideally, there