Our guest post this week is so refreshing and will leave you with a feeling of contentment for what you have and some motivation to approach everything in your life with quality over quantity.
For us, this post from Hailey Outland made us want to replace everything in our lives with the Swiss way of doing things. Read on, and you’ll know exactly what we mean.
When Lauryn discovered Hailey on Instagram she immediately asked her to come on the blog to talk about life in Switzerland. From fashion to produce, to mindfulness and mindset, to wellness trends and a day of rest, Hailey is here to talk about her experience moving from Miami to Switzerland.
With that, let’s welcome Hailey Outland to the blog.
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Hi! I’m Hailey Outland, a Florida native turned world traveler and wellness enthusiast, thanks to my journey in modeling. At 17, I took a leap from my hometown of Apopka, a small city just north of Orlando, to Miami with Next Models. Not long after, I found myself on a plane to Medellín, Colombia, for my first international shoot, and just like that, the travel bug bit me hard.
Miami was where I fell head over heels for wellness and yoga—a city buzzing with energy and the perfect place to really dive into my fitness and spiritual journey. Over the next few years, I lived in LA, NYC, and Sydney, Australia. Fast forward a bit, and I’m in London for work, where I met my better half, a Venezuelan raised in Switzerland with dreams of returning. The first time he took me to Switzerland, it was like something clicked—this sense of déjà vu, a feeling of coming home to a place I’d never been before. So, I did what any love-struck girl would do: I donated everything that couldn’t fit in a suitcase and started a new chapter in Zurich, bouncing back and forth between NYC and Switzerland until we got all the paperwork sorted.
Before settling in Zurich, my best friend and I launched The Collective Ritual, a community for women to create their dream lives through daily practices. It’s been my anchor through the transition from full-time modeling to exploring new passions. Speaking of new passions, I realized I wanted more from life, so I jetted off to Costa Rica for yoga teacher training in 2021, aiming to fill a gap I noticed in the yoga scene here.
After about four years of back-and-forth and officially two years in Zurich, I’m finally feeling truly at home. It’s funny how time does that, isn’t it? Through this blog, I’m excited to share the cultural shifts and the vibrant contrasts between my sunny Florida roots and the beauty of Switzerland. Stay tuned for stories of adapting, exploring, and finding new corners of the world to fall in love with.
SOCIAL SCENE: On Making New Friends
Upon my arrival in Switzerland, I quickly realized that looking for friendship wasn’t going to be easy. Back in the US, making friends was as easy as showing up and diving into conversation, as people are VERY open. Here? It’s more like a slow dance. The Swiss can come off cold but really need time to warm up. They are all about those deep, time-tested friendships, which means getting into the inner circle takes a little bit more finesse.
It was a curve ball for me at first, as I’m a chronic over-sharer, but it’s been a great lesson in patience and the beauty of real connections. I found friends by going to the places that peaked my interest like The Matcha Club, I would go – sit with my favorite Vanilla Gloss matcha and spark up conversation with anyone who would listen.
My advice for anyone finding their social footing in a new place is to embrace every yes-worthy invite, be bold in new crowds, and never underestimate the power of a friendly DM. Social media isn’t just for the aesthetics—it’s your secret tool for finding your crew in unknown places. It turns out that there are plenty of people out there who are eager for a genuine chat and a new friend.
SUNDAYS: A Day of Rest
Back in the US, Sundays were my get-it-all-done day—grocery shopping, meal prepping, you name it, gearing up for the week ahead. So, imagine my surprise during my first Swiss Sunday, grocery bags ready, only to find… closed doors everywhere. The streets? Practically a ghost town. Annoying? Totally, at first. But now, it’s my favorite thing.
Sundays here are sacred, a true day to unwind. I’m all about cozying up indoors in the cold months by the fire. Come summer, you’ll find me exploring new trails and soaking up nature. Switzerland taught me the art of chilling out, and I’m here for it.
European Sundays have a quiet charm and a slower pace and offer a pause from the week’s hustle. It’s not just Switzerland; this day is about relaxation, family, and self-care across Europe. Embracing this has transformed my Sundays into something I deeply cherish.
To bring a slice of a relaxing European Sunday into your life, check out The Collective Ritual membership. Every Sunday, you receive an Essential Sunday newsletter. It’s packed with tips for crafting your own ritualistic Sunday routine, from indulgent at-home spa rituals to leisurely cooking sessions that nourish both body and soul.
TRENDS & CONSUMPTION: A Cultural Shift
I’m all about finding the latest wellness craze—yep, that’s the American in me, always eager to explore what’s new and next, especially when it comes to health and wellness. Take red light therapy, for instance. Back home, it’s the topic in every hot yoga and Pilates studio. Over here? I’m met with a bunch of puzzled looks—but I know it’s just a matter of time before everyone’s on board. I’ve become my friends’ unofficial wellness guinea pig, thanks to my love for trying out everything I’ve picked up from The HIM & HER Show over the years. My home is practically a mini wellness retreat now, stocked with an infrared sauna, red light therapy, mouth tape, and even ice rollers.
And let’s chat about shopping for a moment – Amazon as we know it? Not REALLY a thing here. Instead, we’re all about going to local shops to grab what we need, and honestly, I’m totally into it. It’s about local support, getting to know the faces behind the counters, and discovering unique finds you can’t get online. Plus, living here has surprisingly turned me into a minimalist. Who knew moving countries could change your shopping habits for the better?
I challenge you to swap out a few of your regular purchases for local alternatives. Whether it’s your morning coffee, fresh produce, or unique home goods, seek out local shops. You’ll discover new favorites and build community connections along the way.
ACTIVE LIFESTYLE: Day-to-Day Life Keeps You Fit
Switzerland is my new gym, but with way better views. Who needs a car when you can literally hike, train, bike, or tram your way anywhere? I was missing my car at first, but now? I’m all in for a walk or a train ride. The Swiss are all about making the most of the weather, switching from skis to hiking boots like it’s no big deal.
Sure, we might not get every fitness fad the second it drops, but patience is key. By the time something trendy lands here, it’s top-notch and totally worth the wait. Plus, Zurich’s been stepping up its game big time. In the last couple of years, the city’s been blooming with unique spots that are all about that Swiss twist on keeping fit. One of my favorite holistic spots in my neighborhood is ivilounge, a bespoke approach to wellness offering IV infusions such as NAD+ therapy, detox drips, and the best medical aesthetics. They keep it super natural, which is something I really love and appreciate, and that’s not always easy to find!
In terms of workouts, Groove by B has become my go-to place in Zurich. It’s a sweaty, sexy, and fun approach to working out that encourages you to release your emotions, leaving you feeling balanced and grounded, with a focus on celebrating the body, mind, and soul. If you’re around, drop by for one of my Groovin Hypnotic yoga flows, which I lead every Thursday evening. It’s a vibe like no other, promising a good sweat and great vibes.
DIET: Staying Well, Indulging, and Eating with the Seasons
Ditching the diet is the way to go in Switzerland, where indulging in the finest cheeses, meats, chocolate, and bread is part of my routine, all perfectly balanced with a lifestyle that naturally keeps you on your toes. The quality of the food here is something else—think local grass-fed beef and veggies that taste like they’ve come straight from the farm to your plate. It’s like Europe decided that only the best will do when it comes to eating, and again, I’m here for it.
Sure, there are moments I catch myself missing the endless options of Whole Foods or the dreamy health haven that is Erewhon. The variety of wellness goodies back home is something else. Yet, here, the essentials like minimalist ingredient nut milk and even the luxury of raw milk and butter are right at my fingertips. Not to mention the divine raw milk cappuccinos at John Baker, paired perfectly with the most delicious sourdough bread around.
And then there’s eating with the seasons, a practice that’s second nature here. It’s normal for markets not to have every fruit and veggie under the sun all year round. This way of life brings an exciting anticipation for each season’s harvest and ensures that what you’re eating is at its peak of freshness and flavor. It’s a nice way to connect with the rhythm of nature and appreciate the local produce even more.
Being in such a cozy corner of the world definitely has its perks. The stamp of approval on quality is real—everything from fresh Italian pasta to juicy Spanish fruits and French pastries that could easily be a form of art. And the best part? My body is loving it here. Gone are the days of dodging dairy and wheat. European wheat has a lower protein/gluten content, which makes it more digestible.
Staying true to my ideal weight while living my best foodie life? Absolutely achievable here. It’s like Europe knows the secret to having your cake (or chocolate) and eating it, too, without the side of bloat and fatigue.
QUIET LUXURY: It’s truly an art form
Switzerland has a rep for being pretty pricey, and I won’t lie; it definitely lives up to that. But here’s the deal: you really do get what you pay for… Whether it’s the clean public transportation system that’s always on time, the quality food, or the pristine natural landscapes that are perfectly maintained, every penny spent is an investment in quality and efficiency. So yes, while your bank account might feel the pinch, the trade-off is a higher standard of living that’s tangible in the everyday luxuries of Swiss life. It’s about experiencing the best; in Switzerland, the best is most definitely what you get.
Let’s talk wealth: If wealth could talk, in Switzerland, it’d be whispering. It’s a place where luxury isn’t about being the loudest in the room; it’s about the understated, the refined, the kind of elegance that doesn’t need to raise its voice to be heard.
This was a whole new world for me—from the buzzy lifestyle that is Miami and NYC, where extravagance is often loud and proud, and showing off is part of the fun. Back in the States, big cars, bigger parties, and bling are the norm. But here, wealth moves silently. It’s in the discreet yet impeccable watch and the low-key weekend getaways to places that look like they were literally lifted from fairy tales.
Switzerland is among the wealthiest nations, sure, but the vibe is more ‘quietly confident’ than ‘look-at-me.’ It’s about appreciating quality over quantity, finding joy in the beautifully mundane, and living a life where less is indeed more – except when it comes to chocolate, obviously. Here, you learn that the most profound luxuries are often the ones you don’t see at first glance…
Here are my 5 tips for adapting this way of life no matter where you live:
- Cultivate Mystery: Remember, part of the appeal of quiet luxury is not revealing everything. Whether in personal style, social media presence, or how you share with others, a little mystery goes a LONG way.
- Learn to Appreciate Silence: Learning to appreciate moments of silence can feel like the ultimate luxury in a world that’s always on. It allows you to connect with yourself on a deeper level.
- Discreet Elegance: When it comes to fashion or decor, think of subtle sophistication. Neutral colors, clean lines, and classic designs are your best friends.
- Quality Over Quantity: Invest in fewer but better things. That timeless watch, a pair of well-made shoes, or even high-quality chocolate can elevate your daily rituals.
- Savor the Small Moments: Whether it’s a morning matcha made just right or a quiet walk in nature, Swiss luxury is often about finding immense joy in the simplest of pleasures.
Living a life of quiet luxury isn’t about how much money you have; it’s about how you appreciate and enjoy what you have. It’s a mindset.
FASHION: Practical and Chic
Swiss style is all about that effortlessly cool vibe—think classic, luxury, timeless pieces that look good no matter the decade. It’s less about jumping on every fashion trend and more about building a wardrobe that will last and look amazing, whether hiking in the mountains or strolling through the city.
Imagine having a closet full of clothes that feel like they were made just for you—like that one blazer that’s just the right amount of oversized or those sneakers that are as perfect for a city day as they are for a quick nature walk. That’s Swiss fashion for you; it’s practical but always stylish, focusing on clothes you’ll want to wear forever, not just for a season.
Adopting this vibe means picking pieces that aren’t just about the label but about lasting quality and a kind of understated luxury. You don’t have to give up your own style; it’s about elevating it with clothes that stand the test of time.
If you’re wondering where to start, check out Lamarel. They’re all about creating a sustainable, stylish, and totally versatile wardrobe so you’re ready for anything, anytime.
QUALITY and TIMELINESS: On Swiss Precision
I have always been a sucker for the little details, from perfectly folded clothes to the satisfying noise a lipstick lid makes when it clicks closed. This is another reason why I quickly fell in love with the Swiss way of life. Switzerland’s attention to detail is everywhere, from pristine streets to punctuality. Being late isn’t an option here; it is a refreshing change from the laid-back timing in Miami. This precision in time and quality enhances life here, emphasizing respect and efficiency.
In Switzerland, it feels like everything’s been fine-tuned to perfection. It’s like the whole country runs on a Swiss watch—spot on, every. single. time. Gone are the days of “Miami time,” where showing up fashionably late was part of the charm. Here, if you’re not five minutes early, you’re late! This Swiss love for punctuality and pristine surroundings isn’t just about keeping things tidy; it’s a whole vibe that shows how much they value respect and making the most out of every moment. It’s pretty cool, actually. You start to appreciate the beauty in the details and the peace of mind that comes with knowing exactly when things will happen. Plus, there’s something super satisfying about a place where even the trams run like clockwork. It’s a gentle reminder to step up your own time management game and soak in the beauty around you with the extra minutes you’re not running late.
SAFETY: A Peace of Mind I Never Thought I Would Have
Safety and peace of mind are key factors in Switzerland’s charm. You know you’re in a special place when kids can freely walk to school without a worry, and it’s normal to stroll home at night by yourself, feeling nothing but calm.
Honestly, feeling this safe was something I thought was just in my daydreams, especially after my days navigating NYC. Being a woman, I kinda just accepted that feeling on edge was the norm no matter where you were. But landing in Switzerland? It’s a whole different story. Here, safety isn’t a luxury; it’s just your regular Tuesday. Of course, staying smart and alert is still EXTREMELY important, but there’s this chill, trusty atmosphere all around. It’s as if the entire country has a gentle, reassuring voice telling you, “You’re safe here.” And that, my friends, is a feeling that’s pretty hard to beat.
Switzerland is known for being super safe because of its tight-knit community vibe and top public safety measures. The Swiss police and local communities work hand in hand to keep streets safe and serene. Plus, this mutual respect among residents creates a respectful and watchful environment. It’s the way people live and interact with each other, valuing peace and order. This collective effort to maintain safety lets everyone breathe easier, whether you’re a local chilling in your neighborhood or a tourist exploring every corner of this beautiful country.
WRAPPING IT UP: What’s Next and Where to Find Me!
My Swiss adventure has been a journey of true self-discovery, from embracing new friendships to integrating into the Swiss way of life. It’s a testament to the beauty of blending cultures and finding home in unexpected places. As I continue to explore and grow, you can follow along with me on Instagram @haileyoutland and The Collective Ritual @thecollectiveritual, where we dive deeper into creating a life filled with purpose, wellness, and, of course, a little Swiss magic.
Stay tuned for more of my life in Switzerland. Let’s connect; my DM is always open! Message me for a special code for thecollectiveritual.com Membership.To keep up with my events and classes, head over to haileyoutlandyoga.com.
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All those tips instantly make us feel calm and get the urge to replace our entire wardrobes with quiet luxury. anyone else?
We hope you loved this post from Hailey. Be sure to follow @haileyoutland for glimpses of her Swiss way of life, gorgeous scenery and beauty and wellness tips.
x, The Skinny Confidential team
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