Change of Scene

The ultimate winter
getaways: A self-portrait story

What to do & What to Wear

Winter blues hit hard. If you’re dreaming of a change of pace, plot a chic getaway for a much-needed pick-me-up. From Alpine retreats to adventures across the Scottish Highlands, from fun-filled Miami to an oasis in the Maldives, here’s our edit of where to go, and what to wear when you get there.

The Vibe: Mountains and cosy fires Where: The Chedi, Andermatt

WHAT TO WEAR

You might want to stay warm and comfortable, but there’s no excuse to sacrifice style points. Knit dresses are easy to pack and keep you looking elegant with metallic finishes and bow detailing.

What to do

Whether you love to zoom down black diamond slopes or lean more towards the après than the ski, The Chedi is where you go to do it all in style. The very definition of Alpine chic, the mountain retreat is nestled amongst chalets overlooked by the Gemsstock: think rooftops powdered with snow, a 2,400 square metre spa and minimalist interiors with Asian zen inflexions.

Rooms come large and lavish with a warm palette of browns and feature Hästens beds, often boasting large terraces that overlook the landscape. Take your pick between a range of restaurants and bars, and make special note of the Michelin-starred restaurant, The Japanese. There really might be no reason to leave.

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The Vibe: hip and sunny all the time Where: The Standard Spa, Miami Beach

What To WEAR

Take advantage of the balmy weather and bring out all the colour in your wardrobe, they’ll look amazing against Miami’s vibrant backdrop. When evening comes, slip into slinky metallics and leg-baring minidresses for a night out on the town.

What to do:

In case you didn’t notice, the whole world seems to be flocking to Miami. The flourishing arts scene, fabulous beaches, a booming nightlife and year-long sun make for the perfect escape during the dreary winter months. Presented less like a “hotel” and more like a spa with guest rooms, The Standard is a tropical oasis, set amidst lush gardens just a step away from South Beach.

As you might expect from a hip destination like The Standard, the hotel comes equipped with a café, gym, boutique, nail salon and bar, whilst the restaurant Lido Bayside Grill serves up a sun-kissed menu for the global nomad.

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The Vibe: Scottish Highlands Where: The Fife Arms, Braemar

WHAT TO WEAR

You can leave the heels at home but it doesn’t mean you shouldn’t bring along a wardrobe of sharp tailoring. Look for a rich palette of tones and vintage-inspired bijoux to meld with the old-world décor.

What to do:

Nestled amidst the dramatic landscape of Cairngorms National Park, The Fife Arms is situated in a 19th-century building near the historic village of Braemar. A boutique operation with 46 guestrooms and suites, the fanciful interiors feature traditional Scottish design and local craftsmanship, alongside an exceptional collection of art, courtesy of owners Iwan and Manuela Wirth, who are the co-presidents of Hauser +Wirth galleries.

Pack your hiking boots for adventures across the moors and don’t panic about a shortage of things to do in the evening. Explore Berties Bar, which has a selection of 365 whiskies, do it like the locals and head down to The Flying Stag pub, or channel your inner Downton Abbey fan at Elsa’s, the pink Art Deco bar, and embark on your very own Highlands fling.

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The Vibe: Peace and serenity Where: Alila Kothafairu, Maldives

WHAT TO WEAR

We don’t see much reason to change out of resort wear as you go from bed to sea and back again. Look fabulous throughout your stay with statement swimwear for the day and fashion forward cover-ups for cocktails at sundown.

What to do:

Housed on a 27.6-acre private island, the picturesque sanctuary needs to be reached by seaplane from Malé and is situated in a relatively untouched area of the archipelago. Discover abundant marine life nearby – there’s no shortage of snorkelling and diving options with easy access to Hanifaru Bay, a UNESCO reserve.

Back on dry land, embrace the privacy of the all-villa resort, where every room comes with a private pool. When you get tired of gazing at the sea from your private deck, work on your tan from the glorious white sand beaches, flit between the resort’s restaurants and bars or indulge in a treatment at the spa.

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Image Credits: Courtesy