Note 54 - Locking In
Coat - By Malene Birger / Trousers - By Malene Birger / Bag - Toteme / Loafers - Flattered
My theme this month has definitely been “locking in”. Or, in Internet slang, “entering a state of intense, distraction-free focus to commit fully to a task or goal.” For me, that’s meant focusing a little more on my health and wellness.
I was inspired by creator Filippa Moulier, who started a series called “Locktober,” where she focused on fitness, skincare, nourishing her body, taking care of her home, and being more intentional about her lifestyle to feel like the best version of herself.
This coincides with a particularly busy month for me: I have family visiting for the first three weekends, and then I’m heading to Vienna at the end of the month (on that note…send me your recommendations!). So, rather than trying to be perfectly disciplined, I wanted to focus on finding a balance between enjoying everything the month has to offer and keeping up with the habits that make me feel my best.
That means making time for movement, eating nourishing meals, staying on top of my skincare and other little wellness rituals, and not letting the month's busyness turn into a cycle of late nights, endless restaurant meals, and one-too-many bakery treats. The goal is to reach the end of October feeling energized and well, not like I need to recover. In general, I like an 80-20 approach, but this month I’m aiming more for 90-10 (90% serious and committed, 10% enjoyment)
What I Wore This Week
I forgot to capture my looks this week, but I thought I’d share a couple of pieces I’ve loved wearing lately that have me particularly excited about fall dressing.
First up: this double-faced grey wool jacket from Dagmar. I bought the cream version last year, then found the grey one secondhand at Arkivet in Stockholm. It’s such a beautiful, versatile piece and the perfect way to elevate a simple jeans-and-T-shirt outfit.
Second: these sock boots from Arket, made from beautiful, supple leather. I love the slightly square toe, mid-height heel and the stitching detail running down the centre of the top panel. Deliciously gorgeous shoes but also really comfortable for a day in the city!
Everyday Delights
Cardamom bun workshop
Evocore Batignolles
Sunset in Paris
Cooking fresh salads
The first highlight technically falls into the ‘10’ of my 90/10, because it’s a little more of a fun update! If you’ve been following me for a while, you will know that I’ve been on a mission for years to make the perfect cardamom buns for years and never quite managed it. They were too dry, wouldn’t rise properly, or had some other issue.
This year, though, I took an online workshop that was incredibly helpful for the technical aspects of making the buns: controlling the temperature, choosing the right ingredients, and knowing when the dough was actually ready. It was also really lovely to get to know the host through the two virtual calls that were part of the workshop. I would highly recommend it: my buns tasted and felt just like the ones you can get in cozy scandi bakeries!
Another highlight has been spending more time in Paris while my parents are visiting. I rarely come into the city unless it’s for work, so it’s been fun to have dinner in town and then wander around afterwards. One evening, we caught the most beautiful pink sunset over the rooftops, which felt really magical!
And, of course, part of “locking in” has been trying new recipes. I’m particularly fond of this salad I made with lentils, fennel and oranges, served with sauerkraut for immunity and gut health. I’ve also been switching up my daily walks. On days when I’m working from home, I’ve started taking them around the castle grounds, walking along the water and through the gardens.
Fontainebleau castle
Fontainebleau castle
Fontainebleau castle
This Week’s Edit
The new podcast from Shameless Media! The three hosts (who are so endearing) have honest conversations about what motherhood and parenting look like today, drawing on real stories and data from a census Shameless conducted with its Australian audience. I’ve found it especially interesting as someone who would like a family someday, because it goes beyond the usual parenting conversations to explore everything from marriage and relationships to identity, careers, and the realities of raising children. I love that it offers a nuanced look at the many different ways motherhood can look.
I fell in love with this painting by Swedish artist Eira Thelander, for sale at Galerie Storm in Stockholm. I love the painting's texture, from the broad brushstrokes to the soft, muted colours. It’s so, so beautiful.
90/10 — my current Paris recommendations
Evocore Studio in Paris (for the 90% dedication)
If you’re looking for a challenging Lagree class in a beautiful setting, I highly recommend it. I’ve been doing Lagree for the past three weeks, and I’m officially hooked. It works my muscles much deeper than traditional Reformer classes, so I can really push myself and feel like I’m getting an even deeper workout.
@thefatlea (for the 10% enjoyment)
My favourite Instagram account for discovering new spots in Paris (and beyond…). Her recommendations are beautifully curated, and I love that she shares honest opinions rather than simply ticking off the trendiest places. I’ve even booked a beautiful countryside escape for December based on one of her recommendations. If you’re planning a trip to Paris, I highly recommend following her!
Love, S.
