August is a month that means a lot to me. Not only is it my favorite month of the entire year, I love the feeling of it, the crispness in the air, and that very particular August light.

Those were also some of the reasons my husband and I chose to get married in August two years ago. When Amadeus proposed to me in 2023, we were already picturing an August wedding. We thought of it as the perfect reunion for everyone after the summer holidays. Everyone is rested, refreshed, and ready to see each other again.

This week, on August 17th, we celebrated our second wedding anniversary. Part from our own anniversary, we have two weddings coming up this August and September, which made me think that perhaps I should dedicate this week’s letter to weddings. Let’s dive into everything from the location, to the dress, to beauty, and what to wear as a wedding guest.

If you’re also dreaming of an intimate, minimalist and personal wedding, this letter is for you!

What we wanted

We had never dreamed of having a big, traditional wedding. We knew we wanted to get married, but it was very important to us that the wedding would feel like us – personal, fun, and not necessarily according to the traditional “template.”

My best advice to anyone planning a wedding is this: don’t listen too much to what everyone else says, and don’t spend too much time looking at what everyone else is doing.

I see so many weddings that follow a kind of “perfect formula,” but that might not actually be what you want. It’s your day. You get to decide. And, in my opinion, there really are no right or wrong ways to do it.

We wanted an intimate ceremony at Stockholm City Hall with our closest family, followed by a bigger celebration with all of our friends. We weren’t entirely sure where it would take place, or exactly what the weekend would look like. But after going back and forth for quite some time, we eventually landed on the idea of splitting our wedding into two parts - and looking back, it was one of the best decisions we could have made.

The celebration

For our wedding weekend, we checked into our favorite hotel, Ett Hem. It was wonderful to arrive at this beautiful little oasis, unpack our things and simply have a moment to land and take it all in.

On August 17, 2024, we had our ceremony at Stockholm City Hall with our closest family there to celebrate with us. After the ceremony, we had an intimate celebration at Ett Hem.

Our parents and siblings all had the chance to give speeches, and it was so special to have the time to celebrate together, talk, and actually spend time with one another. There was something incredibly lovely about keeping that first part of the wedding small and intimate.

A week later, we had our bigger celebration with all of our friends. For me, one location felt almost like a must: my mum’s hotel, which she has run since I was little. I honestly don’t know how many Christmases, summers, weekends and hours I’ve spent there over the years. It has been such a big part of my life, so getting married there felt very personal.

We kept things relatively simple. It was important to me that the flowers, food and overall atmosphere reflected who Amadeus and I are as people, rather than what a wedding is “supposed” to look like.

We welcomed everyone with cocktails in the garden, we had a jazz band playing live music in the background. The dinner menu was built around a selection of sharing dishes with a French bistro feel – tartare, French onion tart, crudités with dips, crème brûlée, profiteroles and more.

I really didn’t want the classic wedding dinner that can sometimes go on for hours and hours. We wanted the food to be simple and social, but we also wanted the party to have room to take centre stage.

We didn’t have designated toastmasters or a very structured schedule for speeches. If someone wanted to say a few words or raise a glass, they were more than welcome to do so.

One of my favorite things about our wedding was that Amadeus and I gave speeches to each other during dinner. Since we hadn’t had a ceremony in front of all of our friends, it felt important to us to have that moment. In a way, it was a more intimate invitation into the fact that we had actually gotten married – a little moment where we got to tell each other, and everyone else, what it meant to us.

After dinner, we danced for hours. We wanted the party itself to take up more space than the dinner, and that’s exactly what happened.

The bridal look

My bridal look was very simple. I was 20 weeks pregnant when we got married, and my bump had just started to show. When I found out I was pregnant, I had to rethink my dress a little. One thing I knew from the very beginning was that I wanted to have my dress custom-made, and that it had to be silk. I searched for months for the perfect cream white, heavy silk fabric.

The dress was made by my mum’s best friend in her atelier in Falsterbo, in the south of Sweden. I travelled down to see her, and over the course of two days she measured, fitted and created my dream dress. We needed to make it looser and slightly straighter in shape to fit my growing belly. It was finished about four weeks before the wedding – which meant we could only cross our fingers and hope that my bump wouldn’t grow too much more haha.

For shoes, I wore classic Manolos that I found on Vestiaire.

For the rest of my look, I really wanted it to feel like me. I had my hair salon blow-dried, did a lash and brow lift, and I also had a few rounds of Dermapen beforehand. I did my own makeup with all my usual favorites.

I think that was really the theme of the whole look – simple, natural and very much me. Below is some inspiration for a minimalist and chic bridal look that won’t cost a fortune:

Links: Heavy knit dress, Satin dress short sleeve, V-neck satin dress, Sleeve less satin dress, Kitten heels slingbacks, Tassel silk bag, Pearl earrings, Slouch waist dress, Savette bag, Strappy sandals, RMS cream palette, Mason Pearson brush, Silk lingerie

The wedding guest look

For someone who basically only owns black and white clothes, I always find it a bit of a challenge figuring out what to wear to weddings. I usually gravitate towards a muted palette, as those are the colors I feel most comfortable in outside of my usual wardrobe. So, if you’re like me and want to keep things minimalistic without going too colorful, I’ve rounded up a few of my favorites below:

Links: Brown bandeu dress, Brown slip dress, Brown draped dress, Slouched waist dress, Beige satin dress, Slingbacks kitten heels, Strappy sandals, Clutch, Cream eyeshadow, Lipgloss

Until next time

Notes on Being returns in two weeks. Until then, I hope you found a little inspiration, whether you’re planning your own wedding or simply getting ready to celebrate love at someone else’s!

x Martina

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Hi loves,I hope you’re all doing well!

We’ve been back in the city for a few days now, and there’s always something special about August and coming home after being away for several weeks. Even more so this time, now that we have a new place to call home.

In a week we’ll be starting the renovation on the second part of the apartment, our living room and what will eventually become my home office. As much as my brain feels like it’s about to explode from all the decisions, I’m also trying to really soak in these first few days back in the city.

As much as I love those final days in the city before leaving for summer, I LOVE coming back in August even more.

I know I wrote in my last letter that I absolutely wasn’t going to start talking about autumn yet, that I wanted to stay in summer, stay present, and enjoy the season. But I simply can’t help myself hehe.

Right now, all I want is to wear thin cashmere, proper shoes, and jeans. I want to hunt for art at auctions, spend hours at museums, pick up groceries at the weekly farmers’ market, fill vases with sunflowers, cook warm, nourishing meals, restock my tea cabinet and vitamins, and book infrared sauna sessions.

I guess what I really want is to get things done while holding on to the slower pace of summer. To ease back into everyday life without rushing through my favorite season. Very few things make me feel as excited as August does!

So this week’s letter is all about the little things I love about August. The places I keep returning to, the rituals that make me feel like myself, and all the small ways I’m trying to bring that August feeling into our home.

Returning to my favorite places

Image: Svenskt Tenn café

Whenever I’ve been away for a few weeks, coming home always feels like a complete reset. Like getting to start over with a blank page, August has a way of making that feeling even stronger. These are the places that define August in Stockholm for me, and the ones I want to visit the minute I’m back home:

• Millesgården and Carl Eldh’s Ateljémuseum

• Schmaltz for lunch outside

• Café Saturnus for an oversized cappuccino

• Svedjan’s Bageri for a proper cheese sandwich

• Svenskt Tenn for lunch and a dose of inspiration

• Skansen with Balthazar, everything with Skansen reminds me why August is my favorite month in Stockholm

Links: Denim, Cashmere v-neck, Poplin shirt, Loafers, Belt, Bag, Leather flipflops, Sunglasses

Image: The best back-in-the-city lunch at Schmaltz!

August at home

As for home… despite living in the middle of a renovation, I’m trying my best to romanticize the chaos. I buy sunflowers and place them around the apartment. I stop by NK to restock my coffee and tea cabinet. Speaking of coffee, one of the things I love most in my kitchen is my Sjöstrand coffee machine, and a stainless steel version has officially moved into our new home.

I know I’m not alone in treating the daily cappuccino as a sacred little ritual. But I’m convinced that life is built around these tiny moments. That afternoon cup, is such a small thing, and somehow one of the best parts of my day. Another lovely moment this week was unpacking my holiday finds: a small glass vase and the most beautiful ceramics from Öland.

August makes want to reorganize absolutely everything. Every cupboard gets emptied, sorted and put back together from scratch. I order new Weck glass jars, and organize the pantry. I know we've only just moved in, but I suppose it's my way of keeping my mind in order while everything else feels a little chaotic with the renovation.

August also always makes me want to cook more. I can’t wait to visit the farmers’ market and come home with bags full of tomatoes, chanterelles, zucchini, kale, and all the lovely things that are in season. I think it’s all part of coming home after a long summer away, to cook nourishing meals, and settle back into the everyday rituals I’ve missed.

And then there’s Auctionet!! As always after a long summer away, I find myself deep in an endless scroll again, convincing myself that the perfect painting and sideboard is surely just one more page away… The hunt is half the fun.

Links: Sjöstrand coffee machine, Pot, Weck jars, Candle, Table, White Cups

The August rituals

There are also a few little rituals I always come back to this time of year. Infrared sauna sessions. Long walks. Running. Dry brushing my body in the mornings. Magnesium before sleep. Or even something as simple as always keeping a lovely hand cream and a lip balm on my bedside table, a small act of kindness to myself before going to bed. They’re all such small things, but they make the biggest difference.

Links: Lip mask, Hand cream, Magnesium spray, Eye Patches, Body dry brush, Note book

But perhaps the biggest ritual of all is making time for nature on the weekends. August is simply too beautiful to spend indoors. I want to soak up every last bit of this magical month before autumn quietly arrives.

And then there’s one more thing I’m really looking forward to: a late-August evening with my girlfriends. A looong dinner at a favorite restaurant. Writing this, I realize it’s one of the things I’ve been craving most.

And maybe that’s what August is all about – returning to the people, places, and little rituals that make you feel most like yourself.

Until next time

Notes on Being returns in two weeks. Until then, I hope you find your way to the places, people, and rituals that make you the happiest!

x Martina

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Hi loves, I hope you’re all doing well. Almost three weeks have passed since we arrived at our house on our favorite island. The days have settled into a slower rhythm, and every morning I wake up feeling incredibly grateful to be here. Especially after such a hectic spring, there’s something deeply comforting about this pause. And above all, seeing Balthazar so happy, free, and completely at ease here has been the greatest gift.

I’ve been trying to stay present and notice the small moments instead of rushing towards what’s next. Watching butterflies with Balthazar. Taking evening swims after dinner, slowly swimming towards the horizon. Morning coffee on the terrace. Picking strawberries from the garden. Reading books with nowhere else to be. It’s simple, and it’s wonderful.

I’m usually someone who’s already thinking about autumn while still in the middle of summer. What’s next, what’s coming after the holidays. But this year, I’ve been letting myself take one day at a time. It’s a practice, but I’m realizing how much more there is to enjoy when I stop trying to live ahead of myself.

So this week’s letter isn’t anything elaborate – just a little postcard from the island. A few thoughts, and a handful of things that have made me smile over the past few weeks.

Wardrobe on repeat

Links: Similar hat, shirt dress (on sale)

I’ve been wearing the same few pieces on repeat, and that’s exactly how I like to dress in summer. The kind of clothes you can simply live in, without giving them a second thought.

This shirt dress has been my everyday uniform, thrown over a bikini from morning until sunset. When the evenings turn cooler, I always reach for this soft cotton knit. It’s become my favorite layer after a swim or for long dinners outside.

Links: Summer cotton knit, Denim shorts

One question that keeps popping up is where my straw hat is from. I've had it for years, it's an old COS find – but I've linked a similar one below that I absolutely love.

Links: Shirt dress, Hat, Knit, Shorts, Shirt, Sandals, Bag, Necklace, Book

Updates from home

While we’re soaking up island life, our painter has been sending little updates from the apartment back in the city. As much as I’m enjoying every second of being here, it’s such a lovely feeling knowing that things are slowly coming together at home!

Here’s a little peek at Balthazar’s room, now covered in the sweetest striped wallpaper, and our future bedroom, finished with a warm white/beige linen-textured wallpaper. Both wallpapers are from Boråstapeter, and I couldn’t be happier with how they’re turning out.

Until next time

Before I disappear into a few more slow summer days, I wanted to share a few things that have inspired me and brought me joy lately.

1. Currently reading: The Unwilding by Marina Kemp. A beautifully written novel about family, belonging, and the landscapes (both emotional and physical) that shape us. The perfect summer read.

2. Currently Cooking: I made this salad a few days ago, and I already know it'll be on repeat for the rest of the summer. It's simple and sooo good alongside just about everything.

3. Currently inspired by: We made our annual visit to Solliden the other week, and it inspires me every single time. There's such a calm, timeless atmosphere.

4. Currently loving: I've been using this hair mask from OUAI while letting my hair air dry this summer, and it's quickly become a new favorite. It leaves my hair incredibly soft, smells amazing, and is definitely one I'll be repurchasing.

Notes on Being returns in two weeks. Until then, I hope the rest of your summer is gentle, slow, and filled with small moments of joy.

x Martina

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Hi loves, I hope you’re all doing well. There’s something I’ve always loved about this particular week of the year, the one just before everyone disappears for summer. The streets become quieter, my favorite restaurants suddenly have empty tables, and everything seems to move at a slower pace.

I always find myself wanting to savor these last few days. One final coffee in the neighborhood, a slow evening walk and visiting my favorite museum one last time before leaving the city behind. Tomorrow we’ll be heading to our summer house. There’s something so comforting about closing the apartment door, knowing that the weeks ahead will be filled with salty swims, slow mornings, and days that don’t really need a plan.

This year, it also feels especially needed. We've been deep in the renovation of our new apartment, surrounded by dust and decisions. As exciting as it is, I'm so ready to step away from the chaos for a little while. There's something comforting about knowing we'll come back with fresh eyes, ready to turn it from a renovation into a home.

In this week’s letter, I’m sharing a few of my vacation favorites – from the things I’ll be wearing and reading to little rituals I’m looking forward to, as well as a few questions to take with you into the slower pace of summer. I hope they’ll inspire you to pause, reflect, and remembering that not every season needs to be filled to be meaningful.

City summer dressing

Links: Long sleeved T-shirt, Barrel leg poplin trousers, Bag, Sunglasses

Stockholm has been in the middle of a heatwave lately, which means I've been living almost exclusively in linen and lightweight cotton. These trousers from Arket have become one of my most-worn pieces this spring and summer. I have them in black as well. They're light, breathable, and incredibly comfortable, but still feel polished enough for days in the city when you don't necessarily want to be dressed too lightly.

My vacation essentials

Links: Brown swimsuit, Sunglasses, Knit, Book, Poplin trousers, Flip Flops, Poplin shorts, Raffia hat, Raffia tote, Maxi dress, Black swimsuit, RMS Lip2cheek, OUAI wave spray, Rudolph Care SPF 50

When it comes to my vacation essentials, I’ve realized I reach for the same pieces year after year. The goal is always the same: effortless and comfortable.

A soft knit for chilly evenings, crisp white poplin trousers, swimsuits that double as tops, black flip-flops that work with everything, an easy maxi dress to throw on at any moment, and a straw hat and a woven tote that somehow hold everything I need.

As for beauty, I keep it incredibly simple during summer. You’ll always find Ouai’s Wave spray and Rudolph Care SPF 50 in my beach tote. The RMS blush is the perfect little touch of color for evenings after a day in the sun. Other than that, my face is pretty much bare all summer – and that’s exactly how I like it.

A few questions I’m taking with me this summer

1. What do I want more of when life gets quieter: Enjoy the present, deeper conversations, quality time with my family

2. What feels genuinely restorative: Mid day naps, reading, playing with my son

3. Things I’m Leaving in the City: Notifications, being in a hurry and the pressure to optimize every day.

4. Three tiny luxuries I’m looking forward to: Collecting tiny moments instead of making plans, swimming in the ocean, coffee outside before anyone else wakes up.

5. What can wait until autumn: Most things, if I'm honest.

6. What have I been missing while being busy: Taking care of myself. I've missed working out, feeling strong, and making time for myself.

Until next time

Before I completely close my laptop for (at least) the next two weeks, I wanted to leave you with four things that have been inspiring me lately.

1. A little color for our bedroom.
We’re currently making all the fun (and surprisingly difficult) decisions for our new apartment, and right now we’re looking for the perfect rug for our bedroom. I’ve been wanting to introduce a little more color into the space, and I keep coming back to this beautiful Röllakan rug from Layered.

2. Note to self: photograph more
One of my favorite people to follow on Instagram is Emilie Holm. Like me, she works as a creative consultant and photographer, and I’m constantly inspired by the way she captures quiet moments and beautiful everyday details. It’s such a good reminder that my camera doesn’t always have to come out for work – it deserves a place in everyday life, too.

3. Chic activewear
My friend Caroline recently launched her own activewear brand Isen & co. I just received this perfect sweatshirt and it’s definitely coming with me to our summer house. More than anything, I find it so inspiring to watch friends take the leap and build something they truly believe in. Make sure to follow Isen & co on Instagram!

4. One for the mood board
One of the many screenshots currently living in my camera roll. We're designing our wardrobes at the moment, and I absolutely loved this combination.

Notes on Being returns in two weeks. Until then, I hope you find time to slow down, soak up the season, and enjoy the little moments.

x Martina

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Hi loves, I hope you’re doing well! And just like that, it’s June. I barely had time to blink.

May was filled with lots of work, and June seems determined to follow the same theme. Isn’t it strange how everything always seems to happen at once? The weeks rush by, calendars fill themselves, and before you know it, you’re standing in the middle of a completely different chapter than the one you started.

Somewhere in the midst of all, we moved!! Into the most wonderful apartment, and for the first time in a very long time, I feel like we’ve truly found home.

It’s a turn-of-the-century apartment with soaring windows, the most extraordinary original mouldings, and beautiful wooden floors worn smooth by time. The kind of home I’ve dreamt about for as long as I can remember.

Lately, I’ve been thinking about how important it is to pause long enough to take it all in. Many of the things I dreamed about ten years ago are part of my everyday life now. Yet it’s so easy to keep looking ahead – always chasing the next thing, the next goal, the next version of ourselves. Forward, forward, forward. It’s exhausting.

I think I spend far too much of my life living in the future.

Motherhood has taught me to be more present than I ever was before. Children have a way of anchoring you to the moment in front of you. Still, it’s surprisingly easy to slip back into old habits once the rhythm of everyday life picks up again.

This apartment has become a gentle reminder to stop. To notice. To feel. To simply be.

All around me is chaos. We’re living here while rooms are being painted and restored. Boxes line every wall. The kitchen is still mostly unpacked. I can barely find anything I need.

And yet, I feel remarkably calm. Perhaps because there is no rush. This is a home we hope to stay in for a long time. The apartment carries so much history, so much beautiful patina. Nothing needs to be hurried. Nothing needs to be transformed overnight. For now, we’re simply living with it. Listening to it. Learning its rhythms.

And maybe that’s the lesson I’m taking with me into this summer as well – a reminder to pause every now and then, to breathe a little deeper, and to appreciate the life that’s already here.

In today's letter: a first peek inside our new home, a wardrobe recommendation that I've genuinely loved, and a handful of beauty favorites that have quietly earned a permanent place in my daily routine.

Our new home

This week, our painter finally arrived and started working on the first part of the apartment. For the first time in a very long time, I’ve found myself completely drawn to wallpaper. Soft, textured wallpapers with a linen-like feel that add warmth and depth without demanding attention. I’ve found a few beautiful options from Boråstapeter’s Linen Collection, and I’m so excited to share the finished result with you.

As you can imagine, my mind is currently filled with a thousand little decisions. We’ve kept many of our existing furniture, which feels right for a home like this, but there are still a few larger furniture pieces we’re searching for.

A lot of my evenings lately have been spent scrolling through auction sites, saving furniture, lamps and artworks that catch my eye. It’s one of my favorite parts of creating a home – not rushing to fill every corner, but slowly collecting pieces that feel meant to be there. A small glimpse of what’s currently on my mood board:

And, as always, first things first: a new scented candle.

It’s a little ritual I repeat every time we move. A carefully chosen scent to set the tone, mark the beginning of a new chapter. This time, I chose Narguilé by Diptyque. It has the most beautiful notes of honey and beeswax, it’s so warm and comforting. I also couldn’t resist a few small additions for the apartment – a set of fresh bed linens from Singular Society, a new tray for breakfasts in bed. Often it’s the smallest things that make a home feel lived in.

Links: Candle, Sateen bedding, Cups, Tray

The wardrobe

Paid partnership - In the spirit of slowing down, paying attention, and finding joy in the everyday, I’m so happy to share my collaboration with Asket.

Ever since Asket was founded, my husband has shopped there, and over the years I’ve borrowed more of his Asket T-shirts and sweaters than either of us would probably like to admit.

What I’ve always appreciated about Asket is that their philosophy feels so aligned with my own. Thoughtful essentials. Quality over quantity. A wardrobe built slowly, piece by piece, rather than all at once. For summer, I’ve chosen what has become my favorite uniform: their linen set.

Links: Linen shirt, Linen trousers, The perfect T-shirt

I’ve been living in it throughout May and June, reaching for it almost without thinking. It’s comfortable, timeless, and somehow always feels right.

I’m already looking forward to packing it for our summer house. Throwing the shirt over a swimsuit on the way down for an early morning swim. Pulling on the trousers T-shirt after a long afternoon at the beach. The kind of clothes that ask very little of you and simply let you get on with living. Which, to me, is exactly what the best clothes should do. Find all my Asket favorites from the women’s capsule here.

Beauty

Links: Claw clip, Augustinus Bader essence, Augustinus Bader eye patches, Augustinus Bader SPF 50, Mantle Oil serum, Mantle SPF 50, Verso cleansing balm, Merit The Uniform

First of all, we have a window in our new bathroom. How lovely is that? I’ve never had a bathroom filled with natural light before, and I absolutely love it.

The past few months have been quite stressful, and my skin has definitely reflected that with more breakouts than usual. Whenever that happens, I try to keep my routine simple and gentle.

Lately, I’ve been reaching for the Verso Cleansing Balm, the Augustinus Bader Essence and SPF 50, alongside Mantle’s SPF 50 and their Glow serum. As for makeup, Merit’s The Uniform with SPF 50 is pretty much the only product touching my face right now. The Augustinus Bader Eye Patches are pure luxury and, without question, the best eye patches I’ve ever tried.

Until next time

As I write this, I’m surrounded by half-unpacked boxes, paint samples, fabric swatches, and a seemingly endless list of things that still need to be done. But perhaps that’s exactly where I want to be right now.

In the middle of it all. Not rushing to the finished version, but learning to enjoy the process of getting there. Thank you for following along as we settle into this new chapter. I’m looking forward to sharing more of the apartment, the little decisions, the discoveries, and everything in between.

x Martina

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Hi loves, I hope you’re doing well! May has absolutely flown by and the past few weeks have been a mix of highs and lows, but mostly very beautiful and rewarding ones. I’ve been working on a big project together with AEG that finally launched this week, which felt incredibly fulfilling after so much time and energy poured into it.

Stockholm is also in that magical time of year when the entire city smells like lilacs. Such a small thing, but it makes me so happy every single year. I also went to see Olivia Dean live last week and it was absolutely magical. I genuinely think it might have been one of the best concerts I’ve ever been to. Her voice, the energy, the atmosphere, everything felt so warm and special.

Besides work and life feeling very full lately, we’re also moving (!!). In just two weeks we’ll get the keys to our new apartment and it honestly still feels a little unreal. I’m beyond happy, and everything has happened so quickly that I’ve barely had time to fully process it yet. As you can imagine, a large part of my brain is currently occupied by colors, wallpapers, curtains and all the tiny details that come with creating a new home.

This week I haven’t really landed in a specific theme or structure for the letter, so instead I thought we could do a little roundup of things I’ve loved, seen and worn lately.

1. What I’ve worn

I received these four tops from Arket a few days ago and I’ve basically lived in them ever since. Exactly the kind of pieces my wardrobe was missing. The fabrics are so soft, the fits are perfect, and they somehow feel both effortless and very luxurious at the same time. I already ended up ordering them in more colors.

Links: Tank top, Boat neck t-shirt, Boat neck top, Long sleeved top

2. A new piece of jewelry

I was very kindly gifted this beautiful bracelet from Danish brand Ragbag and it has quickly become one of those pieces I wear with everything. It instantly makes even the simplest outfit feel a little more special, whether it’s for everyday wear or dinner plans. Ragbag is now available in Sweden through Vallgatan 12.

3. An exhibition I loved recently

A few days ago I visited Waldemarsudde, one of my favorite places in Stockholm, together with Julia and Arts & Tea. It was such a beautiful evening, and the botanical exhibition currently on display is stunning. If you happen to be in Stockholm anytime soon, I really recommend stopping by.

4. Henrik’s Hotel in Copenagen

We’re planning a few days in Copenhagen this summer, and this newly opened hotel is currently very high on my list. I love everything about it, the location, the interiors, the architecture. It feels like the kind of place you never really want to leave once you’ve checked in.

5. What I’m reading this summer

I’ve slowly started gathering a little summer reading pile and these are the two books currently at the top of it. Finding Grace by Loretta Rothschild, which I’ve heard so many good things about lately, and Cleopatra and Frankenstein, a book that somehow feels impossible not to love judging by everyone whose recommendations I trust. Can’t wait to bring both with me during a veeery slow summer at our country house.

Until next time

And that’s it – a little mix of things I’ve been loving, wearing and dreaming about lately. Life feels very full at the moment, in both exciting and slightly overwhelming ways, but I’m trying my best to slow down and really appreciate all the little moments in between.

Thank you so much for being here and for reading along. I’ll speak to you soon, and hopefully share a little more about the apartment next time.

x Martina

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Welcome to Letter No. 20 – I hope you’re all doing well.

I wanted to dedicate this letter to the spring summer capsule wardrobe – and how to build a wardrobe you’ll actually want to live in this season.

This past weekend in Stockholm felt like summer arrived overnight. A sudden heatwave. And with it: the quiet realization that what you wear now has to carry you through the months ahead.

I’ve always loved the idea of a spring summer wardrobe that stays the same no matter where the warmer months takes you. Pieces that feel just as natural in the city as they do in the archipelago, at the country house, or packed into a suitcase for a few weeks in Italy. A wardrobe that doesn’t need to shift with the setting, but simply adapts to it.

Also, there’s something about spring that makes you want to start over. But instead of reinventing everything, it’s more about refinement, about building a wardrobe that take you from the first warm day in April to late August evenings.

The shirt you throw over everything. The city shorts that feel just as right with flip flops as they do with a blazer and kitten heels. A dress that doesn’t try too hard, but somehow always works. And then the pieces that carry the feeling of the season:

A swimsuit that doubles as a top.
A woven tote that holds everything and nothing at the same time.
A hat that makes even the simplest outfit feel intentional.

The idea isn’t to have more. It’s to add pieces that invite repetition. For me the real luxury of a perfect spring summer wardrobe isn’t variety. It’s ease!

The spring summer capsule

Photo from 2022 – my spring summer wardrobe basically still looks the same!

If I were to build my spring summer wardrobe from scratch, these are the pieces I would start with:

1. The linen/crepe shirt. Slightly oversized, worn open or half-tucked. Just as right over swimwear as it is with tailored pieces in the city.

2. The city shorts. Clean, structured, hitting that balance between relaxed and intentional. With sandals during the day, with a blazer and kitten heels at night.

3. A maxi slip dress. Minimal, effortless, always right. My best friend Fanny just happens to have designed the perfect one.

4. The one-piece swimsuit. Not just for the water, but as part of the wardrobe. Under shirts, with linen trousers, moving easily between beach and city.

5. A tank top. The base of everything.

6. Linen trousers. Light and breathable. The piece that makes summer dressing feel effortless.

7. A light blazer. Thrown over bare shoulders when the temperature drops.

Then, the accessories – the pieces that carry the feeling of the season:

1. Flip flops. Simple, flat, and inevitable. The kind you end up wearing more than you planned.

2. A straw hat. Less about function, more about feeling. It changes the way an outfit carries itself.

3. A woven bag. Holding everything you need, nothing you don’t. Equally at home in the city as it is by the water.

4. Sunglasses. The final layer that pulls everything together.

Individually, they’re simple. Together, they become a wardrobe that doesn’t need to be reconsidered every morning:

Links: Boat neck t-shirt, Tank top, Tailored linen trousers, Sunglasses, Denim city shorts, Raffia tote bag, Flip flops, Maxi skirt/dress, Linen blazer, Maxi sun dress, Leather sandals, Raffia hat, Linen shirt, Swimsuit, Hair comb, Necklace, Crepe shirt

Barely there beauty

During spring and summer I always come back to the same idea: a bare face. Or something very close to it. Skin that looks like skin – freckled, slightly sun-warmed, a little imperfect in the best possible way. A small, considered beauty bag. Nothing excessive, just the essentials that work across long days, warm nights, and everything in between.

A tinted moisturizer as your base, if anything at all. Something light, that evens out without covering. SPF for face and body, I swear by Rudolph Care SPF products, it’s one of those products ranges I come back to every single year. A face mist you reach for mid-day, on the go, or before dinner.

For the body, a lightweight lotion or oil, applied on sun-warmed skin. For me, summer is forever tied to Biotherm Oil Therapy Baume Corps, it’s as much about the feeling as it is the scent.

And then a few extras that make everything feel complete:

A simple fragrance that sits close to the skin, I always come back to Diptyque Do Son, a scent that instantly feels like being away, somewhere warm. A hair product, oil or wave spray – that lets your natural texture do its thing.

That’s it. A routine that fits into your bag, moves with you during the season. A few favorites below:

Links: Rudolph Care SPF (best SPF I’ve ever tried on campaign 25% off right now), Biotherm body lotion, RMS face mist, RMS creme Luminzier, OUAI Wave spray, Merit tinted moisturizer SPF 50, Diptyque scent

Until next time

Maybe that’s what a spring summer wardrobe really comes down to! Not a perfect checklist, or a fixed formula – but a sense of ease. Pieces you trust. Pieces that move with you, wherever the season takes you. Worn on repeat, packed without overthinking, lived in fully.

Spring has only just begun, and still, I can’t help but think about everything that lies ahead. As always, it feels like everything is happening at once. A lot of work, a lot in motion, and hopefully we’re standing right in front of something very exciting when it comes to our apartment situation… fingers crossed.

After what looks like veeery a busy May, I find myself really looking forward to what comes next. A slower June. July in our summer house by the ocean. And then August, which will bring its own kind of new beginning, as Balthazar starts preschool.

And maybe that’s exactly why this kind of wardrobe matters. Because when life feels full, changing, and slightly unpredictable, getting dressed shouldn’t be. It should just work.

Notes on Being will be back in two weeks. Until then, wishing you all a wonderful week ahead!

x Martina

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Welcome to Letter No. 19 – I hope you’re all doing well!

In our courtyard, the cherry trees have just begun to bloom, and every time Balthazar and I step outside, we pause beneath them. He finds them so beautiful, and always wants to sit and simply look for a while before we move on. It reminds me, in the gentlest way, of how quickly he is growing, and how quietly this first year of motherhood has passed.

What I’ve come to notice most during this year is how much I now rely on the small things. Objects, routines, pieces of clothing that ask very little, yet somehow hold everything together. The kinds of things I once overlooked, but now return to, again and again.

At the same time, it’s easy to feel overwhelmed – by the noise, the information, the endless lists of things you’re told you need as a new or expecting mother. And so, I’ve found myself drawn in the opposite direction. Towards less. Towards what feels essential. In this letter, I wanted to gather a few of those small things – the ones that have made everyday life feel a little softer, a little lighter. The ones that have brought a quiet sense of ease and joy to this new season of life.

The Wardrobe

What I’m wearing: Toteme country coat, Miu Miu glasses, Artipoppe carrier

In the very beginning, dressing was all about comfort. Soft, gentle pieces that didn’t ask anything of a body that was still healing – cashmere, pyjamas, and easy loungewear I could live in, day and night.

Slowly, you start to feel like yourself again, and there’s a moment when you reach for your old jeans. If there’s one thing I would suggest: buy a new pair, in a slightly bigger size. Give your body time. The last thing you need is to feel uncomfortable in something that no longer fits the same way.

Having a newborn often means long walks with the stroller. Then comes a new phase, one that’s spent in playgrounds. I’ve found myself returning to a simple uniform: my Toteme country coat, a good pair of jeans, and sneakers.

Below is an edit of the pieces that have truly been life savers in my wardrobe during this first year of motherhood – from sleepless nights and endless breastfeeding on the sofa, to running after a muddy toddler in the playground:

Links: Cashmere set, sneakers, claw clip, Toteme country coat, Brown zip jacket, brown flared trousers, denim, glasses, the chicest nursing tank top

For my baby, I’ve also found comfort in keeping things simple. I quickly felt overwhelmed by having too much, and instead wanted a sense of clarity and ease. I leaned towards a small, considered wardrobe: solid-colored bodysuits, zip-up pyjamas, and soft cashmere sets. In many ways, I approached it just like my own wardrobe – a kind of baby capsule, where everything works together, even if most of it is constantly in the wash… Below, a few must-haves that have saved many days over the past year:

Links: Beige body Pacifiers, Travel stroller , Organizer, Baby sitter, Sleep carrier, Bottle, Artipoppe carrier

A question I’m often asked is where I find children’s clothing – a few of my favorite brands are: Fanga Fontana, MarMar Copenhagen, Konges Sløjd, Zara Kids, and H&M Adorables.

At Home

Link: Balthazar in one of our most used baby item - the Stokke chair

In the first months with a newborn, the home really becomes your sanctuary – a place to land, your safe space. Which is why I’ve found it so important to shape it in a way that feels good to be in, every single day.

For me, that has meant creating small, grounding rituals. In the mornings, I drink my green tea from Sibyllans in my favorite cup. In the afternoons, I always make myself a cappuccino when Balthazar is asleep. I keep simple, nourishing snacks within reach, nuts, berries, dark chocolate – and I’ve made countless green smoothies just to make sure I’m nourishing my body, even in small ways, every day. I’ve lost count of how many times I’ve made these date chocolate balls from Womensync, the perfect snack during those long days of breastfeeding.

I’ve stocked up on candles so I can always light one, no matter the time of day. There’s always a slow jazz playlist playing softly in the background, and I’ve treated myself to fresh flowers more often than not. Even something as simple as a luxurious hand wash by the sink has become one of those small, quiet pleasures.

Small things, perhaps, but ones I’ve held onto, for myself. Without them, this season might have felt a little heavier.

Links: The best cups, A great snack option, A lovely hand wash, Always stocking up on these candles, Loveliest Sjöstrand coffee machine, Mohair wool throw

Beauty

When it comes to beauty, you probably know by now that I like to keep things simple. Fewer products, chosen with care – the kind that quietly do what they’re meant to do.

Since becoming a mother, I’ve gently stepped away from treatments and products with heavier chemicals. Small shifts, like leaving my nails bare, something I’ve now done for over a year, and grown to truly appreciate. I’m drawn to softer scents, and I find myself reading ingredients more closely, choosing with a different kind of awareness than before.

I’m also increasingly drawn to multi-purpose products that both my son and I can use, simple, functional, and kind. And I’ve come to value the smallest details, the ones that make a difference in the moment, like a good pair of eye patches after a few nights of bad sleep. My beauty heroes for new mothers below:

Links: The only makeup product you need, The best body oil for pregnancy and postpartum, My favorite eye patches, Pocket brush, Lip mask, Body butter, Aluminium free deo, Mommy & me balm (we’re using this one everyday!), Everything from Mushie is great for sensitive baby skin

Until next time

Before I wrap up, I wanted to share three accounts and brands I’ve loved following during my first year of motherhood:

• Womensync: sharing everything from hormonal health to recipes and tips around pregnancy and postpartum

• Luminary Mothers: an inspiring community exploring all aspects of motherhood

• Ilouity: the absolute best pieces for pregnancy and breastfeeding. This is also a client of mine through my freelance work, and it’s a true privilege to be a small part of their wonderful community!

I’m also incredibly grateful for the new friendships I’ve found this past year in other mothers, sharing this first year with like-minded women has felt both grounding and meaningful. Notes on Being will be back in two weeks. Until then, wishing you all a wonderful Sunday and start to May!

x Martina

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Welcome to Letter No. 18 – I hope you had a beautiful Easter!

We spent the long weekend at home, which at first felt like a questionable decision as Stockholm delivered three days straight of storm, rain, and even snow. But it turned into something unexpectedly cosy, slow mornings, time with family, lots of great food, and a museum visit. Inspired by my previous Stockholm guide, I realized it might have been the perfect moment to stay in the city, enjoying its rare stillness while so many escaped to the countryside.

And even if Easter brought us a final taste of winter, I think we can safely say that spring has officially arrived. If not in the weather, then at least at heart.

Work-wise, life feels full in the most inspiring way right now. Just before Easter, I hosted an intimate breakfast event with my beloved Marville Road team – a true full-circle moment, as it’s where my career began 10 years ago. I also spent a day in the studio with the wonderful Ilouity team, and a full day of production together with loveliest Studio Sofia Mehrotra. At times, it still feels a little surreal to have the freedom to choose which brands and projects I work with.

I love seeing how my new projects are evolving into a portfolio of brands that reflect different parts of my life and what I truly care about – spanning motherhood, fashion, wellness.

A dear friend of mine, Sofia, shared a photo of a spring to-do list the other day. It stayed with me. Maybe it’s exactly the kind of energy we want to bring into the coming weeks? This letter is a little mix of everything on my mind right now – wardrobe, home, beauty, and the small things I find myself drawn to in these early days of the spring season.

The Wardrobe

I always find myself drawn to great outerwear, the kind of pieces that instantly make me feel put-together, no matter the occasion. I recently received the most beautiful funnel neck leather jacket from Singular Society, and I’ve been living in it all week. It’s exactly the kind of uniform I gravitate towards right now, perfect with a lightweight knit underneath.

What I’m wearing: Leather jacket, Denim, Shoes, Bag is The Row N/S park tote

As you know by now, denim is a key building block in my everyday wardrobe. But every now and then, I need to remind myself how chic a pair of tailored trousers can be. This is a note to myself not to forget about crisp cotton trousers and perfectly tailored wool trousers this spring.

Links: Black trousers, Car Coat, Belt, Leather Jacket, Sunglasses, Beige trousers, The perfect poplin shirt, Bag, Notebook, Loafers

At Home

Links: Bouclé cushion, Mohair wool throw, Armchair, Table lamp, Beeswax candles

This week I’ve been making a few small updates at home – ones that make everything feel a little brighter. I’ve added the most beautiful bouclé cushions to the living room and finally got my hands on my dream hemstitch sateen duvet cover from Singular Society.

I often get questions about the furniture in our living room, so I thought I’d answer them all in one place. The rug is a recent purchase from Zara Home. The curtains are from Gotain in woven linen. The tables and artwork are sourced from auctions, and the sofa is from Posh Living.

Below, small things that bring a little extra joy and warmth into everyday life:

Link: Hemstitch bedding, Butter knife, Auctionet oil painting, Jars, Chair, Tea pot, Candle care kit

Beauty

Over the Easter weekend, I had the time to test a few new products that I was kindly gifted. I tried these hydrating pads from Mantle and instantly fell in love. I’ve been using them every morning before my serum, and they leave my skin feeling incredibly hydrated and glowing. The perfect base before makeup.

I’ve also brought back an updated version of my all-time favorite from Dermaceutic – K Ceutic. And from now on, it’s SPF 50 for my face every single day. A simple habit, but one that feels essential as we step into a new season.

Links: Mantle hydrating pads, Mantle glow serum, Dermaceutic K Ceutic, Necessaire body serum

Until next time

If you’re in Stockholm, make sure to visit Vårsalongen at Liljevalchs before the exhibition closes on the 3rd of May. This painting was absolutely magical, I would have loved to have something in a similar color palette at home.

Notes on Being will be back in two weeks. Until then, wishing you all a wonderful start to April!

x Martina

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Welcome to Letter No. 17 – I wanted to dedicate this letter to my hometown, Stockholm. A small love letter, in a way. Spring has arrived, bringing with it a new light, a new mood, even a new pace to the city. I’ve found myself seeing it all with fresh eyes. This weekend, we took a long, sunny walk that ended at Moderna Museet, where we saw the Late Picasso exhibition. One of my favorite ways to spend a weekend.

It felt like the perfect moment to gather my favorite places, an edit of where I love to stay, eat, wander, and spend an afternoon. A mix of the familiar and the special, the places I always come back to. Perhaps for your next visit, or simply as a gentle reminder, for those of us who live here, of how lovely this city can be when seen in a new light.

And since I’ll always romanticize a weekend away, I couldn’t resist adding a little note on something I love just as much: the art of packing a cabin bag. Thoughtfully, lightly, and just enough.

Enjoy!

What to pack

I’ve always loved the quiet ritual of packing. Especially when it’s just a cabin bag, and everything has to earn its place. A small exercise in restraint, and in returning to the essentials. For a weekend away, I rely on a simple capsule wardrobe. Pieces that move easily between day and evening. A good pair of jeans, a versatile knit, a blazer, a good T-shirt. Loafers for daytime wandering, and a pair of kitten heels for dinner out.

The same goes for beauty. A pared-back routine, the essentials only. Skincare that feels familiar, and a minimal approach to makeup. Hydrated skin, a touch of cream blush, and signature jewelry to bring everything together.

Links: My favorite T-shirt, Necklace, A great blazer, Sunglasses, My favorite denim in a new wash, Hairbrush, The makeup routine, The best bag, Comfiest loafers, Chicest heels, A versatile merino knit

Where to stay

Image: Ett Hem

When I book a hotel, I’m always looking to feel inspired. For me, where you stay is such an essential part of a weekend away, it sets the tone for everything. I tend to gravitate toward smaller boutique hotels, places with an intimate, personal feel. Somewhere you can truly unwind, but also feel a sense of atmosphere and intention. A few places I return to, time and time again:

1. Ett Hem – for something intimate and quietly luxurious, more like staying in private home than a hotel.

2. Diplomat – for classic elegance and that perfect waterfront view.

3. Stockholms Stadshotell – feels a little more under the radar, understated in the best way.

4. Hotel Ruth – our neighbourhood hotel, relaxed, charming and with great breakfast.

Where to eat

Image: Schmaltz Delicatessen

I’ve always loved returning to the same restaurants. There’s something comforting in having a few go-to places that are just as lovely every time. I tend to look for a balance between the classic and the slightly undone. Often with bistro influences, or that effortless, slightly chaotic charm of a New York jazz bar. Fine dining, or anything overly trend-driven, has never really been my thing. I’ll always choose somewhere with soul instead.

1. For long, unhurried lunches: Schmaltz, Riche, and Prinsen, all classics in their own right.

2. For coffee, buns and a slower moment in the day, best spent at Stora Bageriet, Café Saturnus, Djurgårdsbrunn or Baggio

3. For dinner I keep coming back to Bistro Mirabelle, Teatergrillen, Bar Tripletta, Café Nizza and Bar Nîmes.

4. And for something a little later, cocktails at G.A.T.

Where to shop

Image: Svenskt Tenn

If I’m honest, I buy most things online. But every now and then, I crave that tactile, inspiring in-store experience. These are the places I return to when I want exactly that – whether it’s beauty, interiors, or fashion. Spaces that feel considered, personal, and inspiring.

1. For beauty, I always stop by Cow Parfymeri and YouTime.

2. A few home and interiors addresses I love: Svenskt Tenn, A la carte Antik, Bergenströms Rekvisita, Singular Society and Galerie Storm.

3. For fashion, I tend to circle back to Nordiska Kompaniet and Toteme.

What to see

Image: Millesgården

Wandering through museums and galleries, there’s nothing I love more than a slow Sunday built around it. A long walk, a great take away coffee, and a destination in mind – usually an exhibition, or simply the need for inspiration. These are the places I find myself returning to again and again, throughout the year. The ones that never fail to leave me with new ideas, new perspectives, and that particular kind of inspiration I’m always searching for.

Moderna Museet, Thielska Galleriet, Millesgården, Waldemarsudde, Nationalmuseum and Carl Eldhs Ateljémuseum – all worth an afternoon, if not longer.

Until next time

Notes on Being returns in two weeks. Until then, wishing you all a lovely Easter! We’re heading up north for one last winter weekend of skiing before spring fully arrives.

x Martina

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Welcome to Letter No. 16 – Spring has finally arrived in Stockholm, and with it something in me is waking up again. Inspiration, maybe. Or simply energy! It suddenly feels fun to get dressed in the morning. To open the windows, move things around at home, and let the season shift indoors as well.

Work is busy (and fun!) at the moment. At the same time, I spend most of my days with my little sidekick, Balthazar. Even on the messiest days, juggling it all, I’m reminded how much I appreciate the freedom that comes with this new life of freelancing.

As I step into this new chapter of work and life, I want to hold on to the calm energy I found during the past year of maternity leave. This spring I keep coming back to one small phrase: at ease.

I need to feel at ease in order to focus on the things that truly matter. That’s the feeling I want to build my days around – in the way I dress, the way our home feels, and in the habits that help me start the day well.

Below are some of the small rituals I’m keeping to help me feel at ease.

The Wardrobe

What I’m wearing: Róhe Jacket via Nordiska Kompaniet, Merino knit, Denim, Loafers, Bag

As always, I’m gravitating towards pieces that take me through the entire day with ease. For me, that often means a great wool or leather jacket, something that can be worn both indoors and out. The kind of layer that works whether I’m heading to a meeting, going for a walk with the stroller, or dressing up a little for a dinner date. A piece that makes me feel put together without really trying.

It’s safe to say that this Róhe jacket I found at Nordiska Kompaniet will be my constant companion this spring.

With that said, I love clothes that can shift with the day. Nothing too complicated, nothing that requires a full outfit change. Clothes that allow me to stay present in the day rather than thinking too much about what I’m wearing. Below are a few pieces that capture that same spirit.

Links: Beige suede jacket, Bag, Cotton trousers, Beige collarless jacket, Brown wool jacket, Sunglasses, Róhe Jacket, Toteme Jacket, Blue denim, Beige cotton jacket, Leather jacket, Leather flats, Suede sneakers

Beauty

What I’m wearing: Cashmere v-neck

My beauty routine is still very much built around one thing: keeping it simple. Most mornings I have about five minutes, and honestly that’s all I want to spend on it. A light base, cream blush, brushed brows and a lip balm.

I’m keeping routines and products that make my day easier and more effortless. Tinting my brows and lashes at home is one of those small things that makes mornings simpler, you already look a bit more put together before doing anything at all. This is the brow and lash tint I reach for over and over again.

Just a few small rituals that help me feel ready and at ease as the day begins. Below are a few staples in my bathroom cabinet.

Links: Hairification Hair Serum for fuller and healthier hair, Merit Great skin duo, Manicurist nail polish, Salt & Stone deodorant, Hair brush

Ad - A lovely new routine I've started is using this hair growth serum from Hairification. Especially now, postpartum, I feel the need to strengthen my hair from the scalp and make it fuller. Hairification is now available in Sweden and sold at Apoteket. Link to serum.

At Home

At home, the same word keeps coming back: ease.

I’ve continued my slow process of clearing things out. Less noise, less clutter, more space to breathe. I notice how much I need that sense of calm around me right now. With the light returning, I’m starting to dream about bringing spring indoors. The other day I bought a few lovely branches, and the small white flowers have made me happy every day since.

I also picked up some beautiful beeswax candles at Singular Society. I love the colour and the soft scent of beeswax. They remind me of Easter and other lovely moments ahead.

Link: Beeswax candles

Until next time

Notes on Being returns in two weeks. Until then, here’s a woman that has been inspiring me lately: Laney Crowell, the founder of Saie.

I recently listened to her conversation with Emma Grede on the Aspire with Emma Grede podcast, and it’s one of those interviews I know I’ll carry with me for a long time.

I loved hearing her speak so openly about her journey with Saie, the ups, the doubts, and the persistence it takes to build something from the ground up. But what resonated with me the most was her honesty about being a working mom while running a company.

There was something very grounding about the way she spoke about balancing ambition, motherhood, and creativity. Not as a perfectly polished story, but as something that evolves along the way. It reminded me that building a career and building a life often happen at the same time – and that both deserve space.

x Martina

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Welcome to Letter No. 15 – I hope you’re all well! February has such a particular mood. It’s not quite winter’s drama anymore, but it’s not spring either. It’s the in-between.

We’ve been juggling what has felt like a never-ending flu season, and on top of that Balthazar broke his collarbone, which has meant that February has mostly been a month of staying at home. Slower days, cancelled plans and a lot of time indoors. But we’re slowly, steadily making our way back into real life again.

The past week has been filled with social moments and conversations with like-minded women, something I’ve truly cherished.

I also want to say thank you, truly, for all the support after my last letter where I shared that I’m stepping into freelancing as a creative consultant. Your messages and encouragement meant more than you know. I’m now slowly navigating this new chapter: building something of my own while being a full-time mother. It’s tender and intense and slightly chaotic. One small step at a time!

After a few letters away from the original Notes on Being theme, I felt it was time to return to the three pillars: Wardrobe, Home and Beauty. Below are my February favourites, seen through each of them.

The Wardrobe

What I’m wearing: Poplin shirt , Cartier Watch

I still mostly live in my black shearling coat, turtlenecks and boots. But after months of heavy knits and practical layers, I’m craving lightness and softer tones. Getting dressed in a slightly lighter palette shifts my mood entirely. It feels like gently stepping toward spring.

Right now I’m adding crisp poplin shirts and fresh blue denim to my wardrobe, pieces that feel clean and awake. Nothing revolutionary, just small adjustments that make everything feel new again. A few favourites below:

Links: Poplin shirt, Car coat, Sunglasses, White denim, Loafers, Black Cashmere knit, Leather jacket, Blue denim, Hair pin, Fitted T-shirt, Blazer, Bag

Beauty

After what feels like an eternity of cold weather and dry indoor air, it’s as if my entire body is crying out for moisture. I’m focusing on restoring, replenishing and protecting. Basically layering hydration the way I’ve been layering knits all winter. If winter was about surviving, February beauty is about rebuilding.

Below is my current routine for face, body and hair, all centered around comfort and nourishment:

Links: Salt & Stone hand cream, Verso soothing serum, Verso facial cleanser, Nécessaire body serum, Nécessaire body lotion, Oribe moisturizing cream, Dermaceutic hyal ceutic, Merit tinted mineral sunscreen, Goop lip mask

Something that always works: a good sheet mask, freshly blow-dried hair (I use the Dyson Airwrap), and a crisp poplin pajamas. My favorite evening ritual.

At Home

There must be something about the Year of the Horse, because I have this intense urge to clear everything out. I want order in every drawer. There’s something comforting about truly knowing what you own, and clearing out what no longer serves a purpose feels incredibly liberating.

And once I’ve cleared out what I no longer use, there’s naturally space for something that will be loved and used more intentionally. We’ve added the most beautiful Bone China tableware from Singular Society, and I can honestly say: the search for the perfect everyday tableware is over.

There’s something about a cohesive table setting that makes me feel very put together.

Links: Bone china collection, Tea pot (20% off)

Until next time

Notes on Being returns in two weeks. Until then, here’s one little thing that has been inspiring me lately:

I’ve had this image saved in my phone since last year, and now it’s finally time to recreate it. Bringing a small piece of spring indoors while it’s still winter outside. Snake’s head fritillaries in a pewter vase, so incredibly beautiful.

x Martina

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Welcome to Letter No. 14 – I hope you’re all doing well. I’m sitting at my favorite spot in our kitchen, writing and enjoying my sacred cappuccino while Balthazar naps.

In this letter, I want to talk about career and lessons from a decade within PR & communications. Writing this feels especially exciting, as my career has recently taken a meaningful turn and I’m stepping into an entirely new chapter.

After four inspiring and formative years at Patriksson Group, it’s time for me to turn the page. I’m now embarking on a new journey on my own as a creative consultant, supporting smaller brands through strategic PR, communications, content creation, and visual storytelling.

Choosing curiosity over certainty isn’t always easy, and yet, here I am, stepping into the unknown with a sense that this is the right moment. This transition also comes after a period of parental leave, a pause that offered unexpected clarity. Stepping away from the constant pace of work created space for reflection, perspective, and quieter insights about ambition, balance, and what kind of career I want to build going forward.

I’m choosing to trust what I’ve learned along the way, and to allow space for a different kind of growth. This letter is about lessons learned, quiet realizations, and the importance of daring to pause, and choose again.

Links: Similar blazer, Belt, Denim

The path that shaped me

Ok, so let’s take it from the very beginning. I’ve always been creatively inclined. Drawn to beautiful things, visual storytelling, and photography. I started working at a young age, and after high school I chose not to continue my studies. Instead, I learned by doing. By observing, asking questions, working my way into the fashion industry, and building meaningful relationships along the way. My career has rarely been about strategic steps. It has unfolded more organically.

Looking back, two workplaces in particular have shaped me deeply.

In 2016, I met Jenny, the founder of Swedish fashion brand Marville Road. We connected instantly, and I began helping her with social media and content alongside my job as a sales associate at Nordiska Kompaniet in Stockholm. One thing led to another, and soon I was working full-time at the brand. I came in with a deep willingness to learn. Over the years, my role evolved into Brand Manager, responsible for everything connected to the brand, from communication and visual identity to strategy and storytelling.

Those years became my greatest education. Marville Road taught me what it means to work hard for something you genuinely believe in. I lived and breathed the brand, and I was incredibly proud to represent it, I still am. Jenny and Marville Road will always hold a special place in my heart. And now, it feels like a full-circle moment to begin my freelance chapter by working with Marville Road once again.

2020 - a day in the studio with Marville Road

In August 2021, another door opened. I was offered a role at Patriksson Group. A role and a company a younger version of me could only have dreamed of. Suddenly, I was working with PR for international luxury brands such as Cartier, Loewe, Mulberry, H&M, Max Mara among others. I learned what it means to operate at a high level, to manage complex projects, and to navigate a fast-paced, demanding environment. I experienced clients, colleagues and moments I’m forever grateful for.

I began identifying as a “PR girl” – someone with a wide network, always available, always ready to show up. And while there were incredible moments, it wasn’t only about beautiful settings or glamorous events. It was also long evenings, deep dedication, and hard work – sometimes at the expense of my own well-being.

Along the way, I learned that PR is rarely glamorous. It’s built on preparation, consistency, long days, and attention to detail – with the most meaningful moments shaped quietly behind the scenes.

Growth takes time, experience creates depth, and the best things don’t happen overnight. Your career is something you build over time. There’s room for pauses, changes of direction, and rest along the way. Everyone’s journey looks different, and that’s exactly how it should be.

A few scenes from my years at Patriksson

Lessons learned after a decade in Fashion PR

This industry demands dedication. Hard work, consistency, curiosity, and showing up prepared matter. You don’t build a career in PR and communications without effort. But no career is worth losing yourself over. Learning to protect your energy, to rest without guilt, and to separate who you are from what you do is a practice. One that takes time. For me, it took 10 years.

Ambition and care must exist side by side for a career to be sustainable. Work hard, stay curious – but don’t forget to take care of yourself along the way. This is five lessons and advices I want to give to someone who’s dreaming of a career in PR and communications:

1. Working with your interests is a privilege, but protect the boundaries
   Fashion, beauty, creativity – turning your interests into a job is a gift. But when your passions become your profession, the lines can blur. Learn early how to separate your work from who you are. Your energy needs protecting if you want longevity.
   

2. Hard work will always matter more than glamour
   Fashion PR can look very exciting from the outside. And yes, those moments exist. But the foundation is built through preparation, long days, attention to detail, and showing up consistently. There are no shortcuts.

3. Curiosity is one of your strongest assets
   Ask questions. Observe how others work. Pay attention to how brands communicate, how relationships are built, how trust is earned. The more curious you are, the faster you’ll grow.
   

4. Be willing to start small, it all counts
   The early tasks may feel basic or repetitive, but they’re not insignificant. Every press list, every follow-up, every small responsibility teaches you something. Growth happens quietly.
   

5. Take care of yourself, your career is a long game
   Ambition is important, but so is rest. Learn to listen to your body, to pause without guilt, and to step back when needed. No role, no title, no opportunity is worth your well-being.

Back in 2022, in Geneva with Cartier at Watches & Wonders

The hard working wardrobe

Over the years, my relationship with workwear has become increasingly simple. I’ve learned that when I feel comfortable in what I’m wearing, I can focus my energy on what actually matters.

For me, that means a small, reliable uniform: the perfect blazer, tailored trousers, denim, loafers, crisp shirts, sleek cashmere knits. A capsule wardrobe at its best.

Getting dressed in the morning shouldn’t require decisions or compromises. It should feel intuitive, effortless, and supportive. Clothes that allow you to move through the day with ease, confidence, and presence. For me, comfort isn’t a lack of intention; it’s what creates space for clarity. Below, some great pieces to wear at the office:

Links: Denim, Poplin shirt, Bag, Loafers, Black blazer, Belt, Knit, Brown blazer, Brown trousers, Leather coat

Until next time

It still feels a little surreal to write this, but I’m officially open to new projects! I’m looking forward to what lies ahead, new collaborations, fresh challenges, and the opportunity to grow in a different way.

Thank you for being here, and for reading along as this next chapter begins.

Read more about my services and work at www.martinabode.com

x Martina

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Welcome to Letter No. 13 – I hope you’re all well! We’ve just wrapped up a birthday week in our family. My son Balthazar turned one, and I turned 31. Milestones in so many ways. I feel so grateful for everything we get to share, big and small. Last week also held a small joy: my first riding lesson in 9 years. So much fun, and long overdue!

As January draws to a close, I’m noticing how much I cherish my daily routines at home. Simple, small and repeated acts. Making tea in the morning, dry brushing my body, slipping into the same pieces of clothing.

I’ve never been someone who craves constant change. In fact, I find comfort in repetition. In doing the same small things, again and again, until they begin to hold me. This month, I’ve been thinking about how these little daily rituals are the greatest kind of luxury.

What I repeat, on purpose

I repeat these rituals not out of habit alone, but out of intention. They free up space. They quiet the noise of constant decision-making. They remind me that I don’t need to reinvent myself every morning. There’s a strange confidence in knowing what you return to. In being an outfit repeater. In eating the same kind of nourishing breakfast every morning. In allowing routine to become a kind of personal language. The comfort of knowing, and choosing things on purpose. The kind that lets you arrive in your day without negotiating with yourself.

There are a few things I consider non-negotiable during the day:

• Dry brushing my body in the morning

• Lighting a candle while having breakfast

• Taking my daily supplements: collagen, creatine, magnesium, vitamin D and zinc

• Using the few beauty products I trust, applied slowly, without rushing

• Wearing clothes that already feel like me, my uniform

• A daily walk, with no destination, just movement and fresh air

• An afternoon cappuccino while my son naps, a sacred moment!!

• A warm shower every evening, slowing down and taking a moment just for myself

• Reading a few pages before sleep

Links: Silk pillow case, Cashmere knit, Body brush, Magnesium supplement, Vanity case, Candle, The only make up product you need (The Minimalist from Merit)

What I carry

Routine, for me, isn’t about control. It’s about trust. Trusting that the things I choose to repeat are the things that carry me through – motherhood, work, quiet days, and everything in between.

I think routine also lives in the things I carry with me. The small, familiar objects that move through the day alongside me. The lip balm I reach for without thinking. A hand cream that lives at the bottom of my bag. My hairbrush. My notebook. Everything fits perfectly in my Day Tote from Toteme.

Links: Personalized notebook, Hand cream, Lip balm, Lip gloss, Highlighter, Hair brush

It feels like the ultimate everyday bag for me, simple, reliable, and just right for carrying the things I can’t do without. Small reminders of care, carried quietly from place to place. Below, a few similar bags I love. Perfect for everyday life:

Links: Toteme Day Tote grained leather, Flattered tote, Cos brown suede tote, A.EMERY grained leather tote, Liffner croco bucket bag, Lie Studio tote, Toteme Day Tote croco, DeMellier tote

Until next time

Notes on Being returns in two weeks. Until then, here are a few things that have been inspiring me lately:

1. A lovely conversation with my friend Carolina Storm – it was such an honor to appear on her Substack, one of my absolute favorites.

2. Makeup artist Nina Park – I’m probably the last to discover her, but every look she creates is so beautiful. I’m obsessed.

3. Note to self: white tulips are always a good idea.

4. An Instagram account I’ve been following for years, @frenchfamilyfood – seasonal food and exactly what I’m craving right now. Great inspiration for everyday cooking.

x Martina

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Welcome to Letter No. 12 – January is here! I hope you’ve had a lovely start to the year. A few days by the sea did me good, I always find so much space to reflect and settle when we’re at our summer house. We’ve just returned to the city, the last traces of Christmas are packed away, and I’ve bought the year’s first tulips, a small but comforting sign of a new year.

In this letter, I wanted to talk about the feeling we choose to carry into the year ahead. This time of the year can feel strangely pressured, filled with expectations to reset, improve yourself, and start over in every possible way.

What if we let that go this year? What if, instead of rushing forward, we focused on what already makes us feel good and allowed ourselves to return to the things that quietly light us up. Below, a few thoughts on intentions and why I’m calling 2026 the year of the hobby.

No resolutions, just intentions

I’ve never been drawn to New Year’s resolutions. They often feel rigid and performative. Instead, I prefer choosing a word, or a theme to return to when life speeds up. The word I’m carrying into this year is authenticity. Living in a way that feels true rather than impressive. Here are four intentions I want to hold gently this year:

1. Going back to myself
In a world of constant comparison, it’s easy to live for how things look instead of how they feel. Authenticity, for me, means returning to what genuinely makes me happy. Time with my son. Close friendships. Cooking more. Slowing down. I grew up with my own horse, something that shaped me deeply, and that I’ve missed every day since. This is the year I begin riding again, because it feels like coming home.

2. If something feels off, change it
No one else will change your life for you. If something drains you or feels misaligned, it’s an invitation to pause and adjust. For me, authenticity lives here. In daring to change even when it feels uncomfortable. In choosing myself and my wellbeing, even when it’s scary. This year, I’m intentionally stepping back from a high-performing, stress-driven way of living and protecting my inner peace.

3. Letting life land
So much of life is lived in anticipation. I want to practice stopping and noticing. Five years ago, I wished for the life I have today. This year, I want to let that fully land.

4. A few simple directions
Spend more time in nature. Read more books. Have deeper conversations. Put my phone down more often.

2026 - the year of the hobby

A hobby is something I’ve missed in my own life over the past few years. Much of my time has gone into a high performing job, then into coming home and scrolling my phone for hours, and later into motherhood – where so much of my energy naturally belongs right now. But this year, I’m choosing to give something back to myself. I’m both excited and a bit nervous – I’ve booked my first riding lesson after more than eight years away from the stable, and it already feels like a new beginning.

There’s something quietly essential and authentic about having a hobby. Something that isn’t tied to productivity or performance, but to presence. A place where time softens and where you forget to check the clock.

I’ve always found it attractive when people care about something. When they have a passion, an area they know inside out. When someone asks what you like to do in your free time and you can answer with joy, speaking about something you genuinely love. If I’m honest, I’ve struggled to answer that question myself in recent years. What is my hobby? My job? My phone? An answer that feels quietly alarming, and one I no longer want to accept.

A hobby gives space for joy, curiosity, and growth, a way to be challenged without pressure, to learn something new simply because it feels fulfilling. It might be riding, embroidery, dance, calligraphy, tennis, a book club, photography, or art. The form doesn’t matter. What matters is that it’s yours. Something that makes you feel genuinely alive.

Please do tell me what hobby you dream of pursuing in 2026, I’d love to hear your thoughts.

Until next time

Notes on Being returns in two weeks. As we step into this new year, I hope you feel inspired to embrace what truly brings you joy and authenticity. Sometimes, a small fresh start – a new planner or a set of chic lounge wear can be just the little lift we need to carry that intention with us each day. A few favorites below:

Links: Brown trousers, Brown sports bra, Brown jacket, 2026 planner, Lip mask, Cashmere slippers, Silk sleep mask, Pocket comb, Salt & stone body kit, Silk robe

x Martina

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What I’m wearing: Shearling jacket, Denim & The best rubber boots

Welcome to Letter No. 11 – I hope you’ve had a joyful Christmas, surrounded by the people you hold dear. These days between Christmas and New Year always feel like a soft pause, a moment to slow down, and reflect before stepping into something new.

Right now we’re at our summer house, soaking in the stillness. We read books, cook for hours and take long walks by the ocean. Honestly, I can’t imagine a better way to close out the year.

Links: Verso sheet mask, Verso serum & Susanne Kaufmann body lotion

Soft reflections to carry forward

I love these days in between Christmas and New Year. It’s almost as if the year itself is holding its breath, giving us the space to consider what we want to leave behind and what we hope to carry forward. Here are 10 questions I’m asking myself right now, maybe they’ll inspire you too, as we all step into what comes next:

What’s one thing that made you genuinely happy this year?
Becoming Balthazar’s mom.

What’s something you stopped doing?
I left behind a sense of high performance and stressful environments.

What’s one thing you don’t want to carry into next year?
My high screen time.

What gentle intention or quiet feeling do you hope to carry with you into 2026?
I hope to hold space for growth without pressure.

What’s something you want more of next year?
Deeper relationships and more time for gentle workouts.

Three words to describe your past year?
Healing, rewarding, reflective.

What are you excited about for next year?
A new chapter in my career.

What mood do you want your wardrobe to hold next year?
The same as always, tight and considered. I have no desire to own more than I truly need.

How do you practice self-care in this next chapter?
In this next chapter, I’ll make space for myself, quiet moments and gentle movement. I’m also hoping for a solo trip with my husband to reconnect after becoming parents.

Is there a place calling you in 2026?
New York is calling me, as always. I also hope to visit the English countryside for some calm and space.

The 2026 Wardrobe

What I’m wearing: Shearling coat, Massimo Dutti Denim, Turtleneck, Necklace, Boots, Bag

The new year is a quiet reminder to start over. It’s the perfect time to look closely at your wardrobe, what have you worn most this year, and what hasn’t seen the light of day? Clear out what no longer serves you, and consider selling those pieces.

Imagine your wardrobe as a calm foundation, a small, curated collection that reflects who you are now. Invite only what feels essential and true. Let each piece be a gentle companion, worn with ease and care through the days ahead. If I were starting from scratch and building a capsule wardrobe, I’d begin with these pieces:

Links: Heavy wool knit, Loafers, Denim, Necklace, Wool trousers, Wool coat, Belt, Leather blazer, Poplin shirt, Boots, Suede bag

Until next time

Notes on Being returns in two weeks. Before we wrap up this letter, let’s take a moment to peek inside my saved folder and the beginnings of my 2026 mood board. These quiet days in between the are the perfect time to pause, dream, and gather inspiration for what’s ahead.

Wishing you a calm and beautiful close to this year, and a fresh, hopeful beginning to the next. May 2026 fill your days with joy, presence, and all the quiet moments your heart longs for.

Happy New Year!

x Martina

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Welcome to Notes on Being letter No.10 – I hope you’ll have a magical Lucia today, filled with light and warmth. I was at a wonderful Lucia concert at the National museum this week, which truly got me into the holiday spirit.

As the year comes to an end, I’ve been thinking about what this first year of motherhood has taught me – about my body, my mind, my relationships, and what it really means to take care of myself. Here are six honest reflections I’m taking with me into the new year.

1. A note on how motherhood has healed me

It’s been a rollercoaster, and yet somehow the most natural thing I’ve ever stepped into. Motherhood has taught me to look at myself with kinder eyes, softer thoughts, and a deeper sense of respect. My body feels like something I want to care for rather than change. Shifting the focus from myself to someone else hasn’t made me smaller – it has made me bigger. It has made me a version of myself I didn’t know I’d been longing for.

2. A note on letting go of achievement

This year, I’ve put performance and prestige aside – perhaps for the first time in my life. It feels as if someone turned down the volume inside me. A quiet inner compass started guiding me, without me trying to control the direction. Stepping away from a high-performing job has soothed me in ways I didn’t know I needed. I’ve finally had space to reflect, to slow down, and to understand what truly matters – not just what looks impressive.

3. A note on body & mind

I’ve learned that my body often knows more than my mind does. I’m trying to follow my energy instead of my ambitions. A regulated nervous system feels more important than a finished to-do list. I stopped trying to “bounce back” to who I was, and started landing in who I am. It feels less dramatic than I imagined – more like a gentle agreement with myself.

4. A note on things

I’ve found a deep calm in having fewer things. It’s not about deprivation, but about clarity, knowing exactly what I own and why. My wardrobe is carefully curated, filled with a few signature pieces that truly feel like me. At home, I keep only what I truly adore. Every object has a place and a purpose. This simplicity creates a feeling of peace that feels almost sacred, a quiet space where I can breathe and just be. More than things, I cherish experiences. I’d rather spend time and create memories with the people I love than acquire more stuff. Those moments feel richer and last far longer.

What I’m wearing: The Frankie shop wool coat & DeMellier bag (gifted)

5. A note on time

It might sound like a cliché, but this year has been the most special of my life and it has flown by so quickly. Watching my child grow from a tiny newborn into a one-year-old little boy has been incredibly rewarding, but also way too fast. I’ve had to work really hard on being present, soaking in every single second, every scent, every sound, every small moment of closeness. There have been so many firsts, but also so many lasts. Time can feel like a thief, stealing moments before you’re ready. But I’m trying to turn it around – to be more mindful, more here, more grateful for the now.

6. A note on relationships

Motherhood has reshaped every relationship in my life, especially the one I have with myself. What I need, how I want to be met, who I want close. I can handle less of what drains me and I’m softer with what truly supports me. I’m also humble and aware of how much my marriage has changed this year. We both need to put in more effort to be a true team, to really see each other, support each other, and care for one another. It feels like my new life has done some gentle sorting on my behalf, and I’m grateful for that.

A fresh start

Links: Cashmere knit, T-shirt, Mason Pearson brush, Westman Atelier Blush in Petal, Diptyque Scent, Cashmere & Wool socks, Soft bra, Book

If I were to bring just a few actual things into the new year, these would be them. Timeless staples and gentle essentials for a calm, intentional fresh start.

Now is the perfect moment to clear out what no longer feels like you and add what truly supports you: fresh socks, crisp white t-shirts, soft underwear, fresh beauty updates, a long-lasting cashmere knit, maybe even a new book to set the tone.

Until next time

I’m filled with gratitude for the lessons this year has brought, both the gentle and the challenging. Motherhood, self-discovery, letting go of old pressures, and embracing simplicity have all shaped me in unexpected ways.

Thank you for being part of this journey with me. Here’s to carrying new lessons softly into the new year. Notes on Being will return in two weeks. Until then, I’m wishing you a wonderful Christmas. I look forward to catching up with you in the days between Christmas and New Year!

x Martina

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Welcome to Notes on Being letter No.9 - Right now I’m decorating our home for the First Sunday of Advent. Today we’re heading to our first Christmas market of the season, and I’m trying to do small, gentle things that slowly ease me into the holiday feeling.

December has a way of sweeping us up into its fast pace and full shopping bags. I wanted to create a gift guide this year – but the more I sat with it, the more I found myself asking: What is the best kind of gift, really?

This Intentional gift guide grew from that question. A gentle invitation to think beyond things, and toward experiences, gestures, and moments that carry real meaning. Gifts that don’t simply fill space, but create it. Space for presence, connection, and memory.

I’d be an absolute hypocrite if I said I didn’t enjoy receiving or buying beautiful things. I really do! But there’s something grounding about shifting the focus, about choosing with intention rather than buying for the sake of buying. Below you’ll find my favorite ideas for intentional giving this season.

Gift idea No.1 - The Experience

Links: Croco passport holder, Weekend tote, Merino knit, Suede slippers

I absolutely love giving and receiving experiences – the best part is that you can often share them together. Gifts like a ticket to the theater, a dinner at a favorite restaurant, a museum visit, or a night away at a chic hotel are invitations to be fully present and create lasting memories. These moments of connection stay with us far longer than any object ever could. And when paired with a thoughtful addition, like an embossed passport holder or a luggage tag, a weekend bag, or a chic staple to wear on that specific occasion – they become truly intentional. Gifts that honors both the experience and the meaning behind it.

Gift idea No.2 - Home made

Links: Tea pot, Hand cast candles, Cup with saucer, Linen napkin

Is there anything more thoughtful than receiving something someone has made just for you? Thoughtful, handcrafted gifts from the heart. Think homemade granola, marmalades, wreaths, embroidered napkins – small tokens made with care and love that carry a personal touch impossible to find in any store. When combined with a handpicked jar, candles, or a lovely kitchen towel, these gifts become an intimate celebration of time and care.

Gift idea No.3 - Body & Soul

Links: Youtime gift selection, Pers skincare via Beam Mode, Cotton Pyjamas, Cable knit slippers

The perfect gift for the person who never takes time for themselves. A caring gift that nourish the body and soul. A gift card for an infrared sauna session, a calming breathwork class, or a facial – these are gifts that encourage rest, renewal, and self-care. Paired with a luxurious skincare product, a soft pyjamas, or a soothing herbal tea, they become a gentle invitation to slow down and unwind.

Gift idea No.4 - Vintage finds

My favorite vintage shops: Auctionet, Kaplans, Galerie Storm, Schiller Dufva, A la carte Antik & Moderna Antika

I love searching for personal, meaningful gifts second hand – there’s something magical about finding treasures with history and character. Whether it’s vintage glassware, elegant pewter pieces, forever jewelry or unique artwork discovered at a flea market, these gifts honor sustainability and timeless charm. Add a curated item like a classic book or a scented candle to complete the thoughtful package.

Until next time

I’ve just finished decorating my Advent candle holder, a small ritual that invites presence – in case you’re looking for some last-minute inspiration for yours. Notes on Being returns in two weeks. Until then, let intentional giving set the tone for the beginning of December, choosing meaning over rush. Wishing you an Advent weekend filled with calm and joy.

x Martina

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Welcome to Letter No. 8 – It’s almost unbelievable that we’ve already reached the end of November. I hope you’re feeling well and that you’re finding small moments that ground you, comfort you, or simply make you breathe a little easier in these busy days.

Right now I’m leaning into that gentle sense of anticipation, letting the festive season unfold slowly. Even though much of my life right now revolves around quiet days at home with my baby Balthazar. Still, there’s a part of me that looks forward to stepping out a bit more, to socialize, to feel inspired, to meet friends at our favorite restaurant for a late dinner that stretches into the night.

At home, I find myself adding tiny ornaments or festive details here and there – a ribbon, a wreath, new candles, small touches that shifts the mood. Nothing grand, just intentional gestures that ease us gently into the holidays.

In this letter, I’ll be sharing my thoughts on festive dressing and how to cultivate a warm, joyful mood. Simple ways to embrace the season without overwhelm.

The Wardrobe - festive dressing

What I’m wearing: The perfect black dress signed Marville Road

With end-of-year parties, cocktails, and Christmas dinners coming up, I’ve been thinking a lot about how to dress for the season without making it feel complicated. I’m always considering how my everyday capsule pieces can be transformed with just a few intentional touches. A cashmere knit elevated with a pair of sleek heels and tailored trousers. My favorite denim paired with a chic blazer and a mini bag. The perfect black dress to wear for years to come. Even the most pared-back look can feel celebratory with the right textures and accessories.

It’s more about mood than perfection, dressing in a way that feels festive but still deeply you.

What I’m wearing: Chicest Cos blazer (similar here), Cos Denim, Savette Bag & Chanel slingbacks

For me, it’s all about selecting pieces that effortlessly transition between dressed-up and casual, whatever the occasion. Creating a wardrobe where most items can be mixed and matched makes getting dressed feel simple and stress-free. A few of my favorite pieces for festive dressing and beyond;

Links: Tassel bag, Kitten heels, Leather blazer, Velvet mini skirt, Belted clutch, Cardigan, Turtleneck knit, Velvet trousers, Satin mules, Tassel necklace, V-neck dress, Wide shaft boots, Drop waist dress, Satin lace dress

At Home - celebratory objects

A festive home doesn’t require much, just a few thoughtful details to shift the atmosphere. Little touches that make the space feel gently dressed for the season without overwhelming it. I love how small gestures can make a home feel both warm and quietly celebratory.

In November I gather my pewter decorations and silk ribbons, hang a wreath on the door, and fill the apartment with bouquets of amaryllis. And perhaps this is also the season to invest in the pieces that make these rituals feel even more special, a beautiful serving platter, chic glasses, or decorative objects that will bring joy for many years to come. Below, setting the tone for the festive season ahead;

Links: Scented candle, Shell etagere, Cheese knife, Wine glass Oval platter, Silver objects

Beauty - day to night

I’m quite consistent when it comes to makeup, some would say I’m boring – I wear more or less the same products no matter the occasion. Having a history of hormonal acne means I truly appreciate every day I can keep things light and still feel comfortable in my skin.

For evenings, I don’t shift dramatically; I simply elevate the look I wear during the day. Fresh skin, brushed-up brows, and a subtle highlighter remain the base, but I might add a softly tinted lip and lip liner or a creamy eyeshadow, just enough to add a hint of seasonal polish without changing the overall feel.

And of course, a slightly deeper fragrance instantly makes the whole look feel more festive. One of my longtime favorites is Hwyl from Aesop, a scent I share with my husband and always reach for on celebratory evenings.

Links: Aesop scent, Hourglass lip liner, Armani lip gloss, Manasi 7 eye glow, Merit winter set

Until next time

Notes on Being returns in two weeks. As we step into this festive season, let’s remember to savor the simple joys. There’s beauty in keeping things effortless, whether it’s how we dress, decorate, or take care of ourselves. Here’s to enjoying the season without pressure, and embracing its quiet magic.

x Martina

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Welcome to Letter No. 7 – November is slow and grounding, filled with museum visits, new books, and quiet days at home with my family. There’s a calmness to this in-between season, a time that invites reflection and makes space for stillness.

Lately, I’ve been thinking about the things that stay. The pieces that move with us through the seasons, that age gently alongside us, carrying quiet traces of time. A faint patina that only love and use can create. In a world that moves fast, there’s something grounding about returning to what lasts.

The objects you reach for again and again. The ones that feel like you, not because they’re new or on trend, but because they’ve become part of your life. Forever pieces, I like to call them. Not because they’re expensive or rare, but because they endure.

This letter is an ode to long lasting objects through wardrobe, home and beauty.

The Wardrobe - the forever capsule

What I’m wearing: Arket shearling coat, Flattered boots, Arket trousers, The Row Bag

A long lasting wardrobe doesn’t start with what you buy, it begins with what you return to. True timelessness isn’t about chasing trends, it’s about cultivating a genuine connection to your clothes.

For me, staying true to myself is essential. I keep a carefully curated, tight wardrobe. Just a few pieces worn on rotation, with some alternations depending on the season. Two perfect pairs of denim, a handful of cashmere knits, two crisp cotton shirts, two pair of tailored trousers, a perfect black blazer, a few occasion dresses, my signature jewelry and thoughtfully chosen outerwear.

I always gravitate toward garments crafted from natural, enduring materials as wool, silk and leather, that soften and evolve beautifully over time. Sometimes I seek out vintage treasures, but mostly I look for timeless pieces that can be passed on if they no longer serve me as I hoped.

“Forever” isn’t about owning more. It’s about choosing with care and allowing what you have to live many lives. My take on a few versatile pieces below;

Links: Watch, Cashmere knit, Leather tote, Wool coat, Denim, Leather boots, Leather blazer, Wool trousers, Diamond studs

At Home - treasures telling stories

Ad – Some designs hold their place in time, quietly iconic, enduring in form and feeling. The PH80 by Louis Poulsen is one of them. I’ve admired their craftsmanship for years, and I’m proud to now have this beautiful relaunch illuminating my home. A reminder that true design never fades - link to the PH80 table lamp.

The same idea extends into the home, a space shaped not by perfection, but by presence. A lamp passed down, a painting discovered at a small gallery, a vintage chair with a story, these are the things that make a home feel alive. They carry history, craftsmanship, and soul. Nine times out of ten, I buy my furniture and art from auction houses, dare to explore that world! A few of my favorite things at home, found at auction;

A forever piece in a home doesn’t need to be grand or costly; it simply needs to last, in beauty, in function, in feeling. Choose materials that age gracefully: wood, glass, linen, stone. Seek pieces that invite touch, that gather warmth, that hold memory.

The goal isn’t to curate perfection, but to build a home that endures, one that reflects who you are, and who you’re becoming. Below, some classic pieces that stand the test of time;

Links: Georg Jensen carafe, Alvar Aalto Vase, Fredericia J39 chair, Wool Alpaca throw,

Beauty - forever essentials

A “forever routine” isn’t about chasing every new product or fleeting trend, it’s about discovering the few essentials that truly work for you, the ones you can trust day after day. For me, beauty is rooted in simplicity and health. It’s about enhancing what’s already there, not change it or covering it up.

True beauty feels effortless and enduring. It’s less about perfection and more about presence, being comfortable in your skin and confident in how you show up each day.

My routine, the one I return to again and again to feel like the best version of myself, looks like this: For skin, I trust Dermapen twice a year, lots of daily hydration, retinol, and vitamin C. When it comes to hair, I trim the ends every three months, wash it once a week, and style with my Dyson Airwrap. For makeup, I keep it simple with tinted moisturizer, brow gel, cream blush, cream highlighter, and lip balm.

Other things I do include taking a sauna once a week, my skin (and mind) loves it! I dry brush my body every morning, and I tint my lashes and brows once a month. Since becoming a mom, I’ve stopped doing my nails. I miss it sometimes, but I enjoy feeling natural.

Below are my four ride-or-die products, the ones I reach for again and again;

Links: Necessaire body lotion, Hourglass tinted lip balm, Dermaceutic K Ceutic, My signature scent

Until next time

Notes on Being returns in two weeks. I hope this letter could be a reminder that; in a culture that asks us to want more, it feels quietly radical to cherish what already is.

Maybe the real luxury is not newness, but continuity.

x Martina

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