For someone worried about travelling sober, the fear of missing out or feeling out of place can be real. Many imagine luxury and fun always come with drinks in hand, but that’s not the whole story. Sober influencers are changing what luxury means, proving you can enjoy life’s best moments without alcohol.

They show that true luxury is about clarity, genuine connection, and mindful experiences. These voices offer a fresh view that redefines self-care and success without the old pressures of drinking.

When navigating social situations, it helps to remind yourself: “You don’t need a drink to be the life of the party; your presence is enough.” Simple mindset shifts like this make travelling sober not just possible, but enriching.

1) Michael Sargood (@happywithoutthehooch) – Sharing raw, honest moments of sobriety with warmth and humour.

Michael Sargood’s feed isn’t polished or perfect. It’s real. He posts about the ups and downs of staying sober with a kind of warmth that makes you feel like you’re sitting with an old friend. His honesty cuts through the usual silence around addiction.

He often shares stories of navigating social events without a drink. One of his key tips is simple: focus on the conversation, not the alcohol. “If you’re present, people notice your energy more than what’s in your glass,” he says.

Michael believes humour is a lifeline. Laughing at awkward moments helps him stay grounded. He says, “Sobriety isn’t a punishment—it’s a new kind of freedom.” That mindset shifts everything.

When things get tough, Michael reminds his followers to be patient with themselves. Social settings can be tricky, but he suggests planning exit strategies and finding sober allies nearby.

One powerful quote he lives by is: “You don’t need a drink to be the life of the party. You just need to bring yourself.” This simple truth resonates deeply in his community.

2) Anna Forest – Merging mindfulness with luxury travel, showing sober can be deeply indulgent

Anna Forest knows luxury travel doesn’t mean you need alcohol to enjoy yourself. She blends mindfulness with her trips, showing that sobriety adds depth to every experience. Her journeys focus on presence—tasting flavours, absorbing culture, and appreciating quiet moments.

She often says that luxury is about how fully you live each moment, not the drinks you hold. “True indulgence comes from calm attention, not distraction,” she reminds followers.

Social events can be tough, but Anna shares simple mindset tips. She suggests preparing a few honest phrases about sobriety to ease awkwardness. Bringing a non-alcoholic drink helps maintain control and blends you into the group without pressure.

Anna also advises focusing on connection over consumption. Listening deeply and asking curious questions draws people in more than sharing a drink ever could. Patience and kindness to yourself in these moments are key.

Her approach shows that sobriety doesn’t mean missing out. Instead, it opens a richer path where luxury and wellbeing meet effortlessly. This shift makes every trip more meaningful and genuinely indulgent.

Learn more about the mindful mix of travel and sobriety with Anna Forest’s approach in this book on soberful living.

3) Dani Marie (@wearesober) – Building community around sober living with style and authenticity

Dani Marie isn’t just sharing a life free from alcohol; she’s creating a vibe where style, honesty, and connection come first. Her feed feels like a retreat for anyone who wants to live fully sober without losing their flair. She shows that sobriety and luxury don’t have to be worlds apart.

In social settings, Dani often talks about the pressure to fit in with drinking culture. Her advice is simple and real: focus on what makes you feel grounded, not what others expect. “You don’t have to drink to pour your heart out or enjoy the night,” she often says.

She reminds people that drinking isn’t the only way to connect. Dabbling in conversations, keeping your own rhythm, and being clear about your choice can shift the night’s energy. When it feels tough, her mindset tip is to prepare a few go-to phrases or topics to steer the chat comfortably.

One of her most powerful quotes is: “Sober isn’t less—it’s a different kind of magic.” It sums up her approach perfectly. Dani invites everyone to find their sober style and walk through life with confidence and community.

4) Dean Fagan – Elevating non-alcoholic cocktail culture with expert-led experiences

Dean Fagan has reshaped how people see non-alcoholic drinks. He crafts cocktails that don’t just taste great but tell a story. These aren’t your usual soft drinks; they offer complexity and style, proving luxury doesn’t need alcohol.

His expert-led experiences go beyond mixing drinks. Dean creates spaces where people learn and appreciate the art of sober living. It’s about connection and enjoyment, not feeling left out or “different” at social events.

He often shares simple mindset tips for handling social situations sober. One of his favourites is to focus on curiosity, not pressure. Instead of thinking about what you’re missing, he says, “Ask questions. Listen. Be present.” That shift changes the whole atmosphere.

Dean’s approach isn’t about fighting cravings but embracing new ways to enjoy life. He believes, “Sobriety isn’t a limitation; it’s an invitation to explore deeper flavours and moments.” It’s a powerful reminder that luxury can be clean, intentional, and full of meaning.

5) Sasha Rees (@soberandsassy) – Blending glamour with sober self-care, redefining what luxury means without alcohol.

Sasha Rees shows that luxury isn’t about expensive drinks or wild nights. It’s about feeling good in your own skin and making choices that nourish the body and mind. Her style combines high fashion with moments of calm, reminding us that self-care is a form of luxury.

She often shares how she handles social situations sober. Sasha suggests focusing on meaningful conversations instead of the drink in your hand. “True confidence is owning your choice, even if it feels different,” she says. This mindset can shift the pressure of social settings into something empowering.

Sasha also encourages planning small rituals before events. Whether it’s a calming breath or reminding yourself of why you chose this path, these moments build strength. She believes luxury is in the details — a quiet moment, laughter without a hangover, real connection.

6) James Thornhill – Curating alcohol-free social events that feel exclusive and vibrant

James Thornhill has a knack for creating social gatherings that don’t rely on alcohol to shine. His events feel exclusive, vibrant, and full of genuine connection. Instead of the usual clinks of glasses, there’s laughter, great music, and meaningful conversation.

He believes the secret is in the details—careful curation of the space, thoughtful activities, and a welcoming vibe. James often says, “You don’t need a drink to feel alive in a crowd.” That mindset helps him build events where being sober feels like a choice, not a compromise.

In social settings, James advises staying present and focusing on the people around you. He knows it can be tough, so he shares simple tips like finding a conversation partner early and setting a personal intention for the night. These small moves make a big difference.

7) Ella Mills (Deliciously Ella) – Promoting wellness and sober curiosity through luxury nutrition and lifestyle

Ella Mills has built a brand around wholesome food and mindful living. She shows that luxury isn’t about alcohol or flashy nights but about nourishing the body and mind with care.

Her approach to sober curiosity fits naturally with high-end wellness. Ella’s recipes and lifestyle advice focus on clean, tasty meals that feel indulgent without being excessive. It’s a new kind of luxury—one rooted in balance and self-respect.

Ella often shares how she handles social situations without drinking. She advises having a clear mindset and set of boundaries before heading out. “You don’t have to say yes to everything. Respect your own limits,” she says.

One practical tip is bringing your own sober drink or choosing places with interesting non-alcoholic options. This helps avoid pressure and keeps the focus on enjoyment, not alcohol.

8) Alex Kingsbury (@drywinedude) – Pairing sober living with fine dining and high-quality nolo beverages

Alex Kingsbury shows that living sober doesn’t mean missing out on luxury. He shares his journey of enjoying gourmet meals paired with the best no and low-alcohol drinks. For Alex, it’s about savouring every taste without the haze of alcohol.

He often talks about how sober dining can be just as rich and rewarding. Alex recommends focusing on textures, flavours, and the artistry in every dish. This mindset helps him stay present and fully enjoy social events that revolve around food and drink.

When it comes to social situations, Alex suggests having a clear purpose for your sobriety. He says, “Confidence is about owning your choice, not apologising for it.” This helps him navigate nights out without feeling pressured.

One of his key tips is to bring your own nolo beverage to events. That way, you’re never caught without something you enjoy. He also reminds people that it’s okay to say no and set boundaries—you don’t have to drink to fit in or feel part of the group.

9) Nicola Bottomley – Creating elegant sober travel itineraries that inspire and empower women

Nicola Bottomley designs travel plans that go beyond typical luxury. Her itineraries focus on meaningful experiences without alcohol, showing women how to enjoy cities, culture, and calm in style.

Nicola’s trips prove that you don’t need a drink in hand to embrace elegance.

She often shares mindset tips for handling social situations sober. One key idea is to stay present and remind yourself, “Confidence comes from embracing who you are, not what you drink.”

This helps when parties or dinners centre around cocktails, turning discomfort into quiet strength.

Nicola encourages women to plan ahead. Knowing where to go for good food, inspiring views, and low-key social spots can make all the difference.

She believes travel is a chance to reset not by numbness, but through connection and awareness.

Her approach is about creating moments that last, not just nights that blur. Nicola’s work proves that sober luxury travel is about feeling free, grounded, and in control — wherever the journey takes you.

10) Theo Michaels – Advocating for sober celebrations that rival any party in style and joy.

Theo Michaels knows that sobriety doesn’t mean missing out on fun. He’s built a community where celebrations feel just as vibrant and exciting, without alcohol. His parties focus on connection, atmosphere, and genuine happiness.

He often shares mindset tips for staying grounded in social settings. One is to focus on listening fully, not just waiting to speak. Being present helps ease anxiety and builds real conversations.

Theo believes the best way to handle gatherings sober is to choose your crowd wisely. Surround yourself with people who respect your choices and bring positive energy.

Having a fallback plan, like stepping outside for fresh air, also keeps things manageable.

A quote he lives by: “Joy doesn’t come from what you drink; it comes from who you are in the moment.”

For Theo, sober celebrations are not about what’s missing but what’s gained—clarity, deep connection, and a style all their own.

Challenging Old Notions of Luxury

Sober influencers are shifting what luxury means by showing it isn’t tied to alcohol or old party clichés. Instead, they focus on mindful moments and genuine connections, reshaping luxury as something deeper and more personal.

Beyond Bubbles: Redefining Celebration Without Alcohol

Celebrations without alcohol can feel lonely at first, but sober influencers show another way. They highlight experiences that don’t rely on champagne or cocktails—like sunset dinners, spa days, or art events.

These moments are framed as valuable not because of what’s in a glass, but because of the attention and intention poured into them.

Rather than masking the moment, sober individuals lean into clarity and presence. They find joy in meaningful conversations and small rituals, turning celebration into something calm yet rich.

This approach calls luxury a space where sobriety enhances the experience, not diminishes it.

Creating Connection and Presence in Opulent Spaces

Luxury spaces often feel designed for noise and excess, but sober influencers show how to create stillness in these places. They value quality over quantity, choosing quiet corners in busy hotels or early visits to galleries.

It’s about truly being there—not just showing off a designer label or pricey setting. They focus on connection, whether with a travel companion or their own thoughts.

These moments of presence redefine opulence as mental and emotional richness, not just physical display.

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Mindset Tips for Staying Sober in Social Situations:

• Prepare a short, honest reply for when people ask why you’re not drinking.
• Find someone who respects your choice and stick with them.
• Focus on what you enjoy most about the event—music, food, or conversation—rather than the drinking.

“Sobriety isn’t a limitation. It’s the clearest way to find what luxury really means—to live fully awake and genuinely connected.”

Real-Life Inspirations From Sober Influencers

Sober influencers show how living without alcohol can transform luxury into something deeper and more meaningful. They navigate exclusive events with confidence and create daily rituals that celebrate simplicity and self-care. Their stories reveal practical ways to enjoy life fully, without relying on drinks or flashy displays.

Navigating High-End Social Scenes Sober

Attending parties or dinners without alcohol can feel like walking a tightrope. Sober influencers often prepare by setting clear intentions before events. They focus on genuine conversations rather than background noise or drinking culture.

One tip they share is having a non-alcoholic drink in hand. It acts as a social anchor and defuses questions about why they’re not drinking. They also rely on body language — relaxed posture and smiling — to show they’re present and engaged.

Mindset plays a huge role. Staying curious, asking people about their stories, and practising gratitude for the experience keeps the night positive.

A powerful reminder from an influencer says, “You create your own buzz – it’s all about your energy, not the glass in your hand.”

Daily Rituals and Small Luxuries That Nourish

Sober influencers find luxury in intentional, low-key moments. For many, mornings start with a ritual: brewing a perfect cup of tea or journaling to set the tone for the day.

These small acts feel indulgent because they are chosen and savoured.

They also prioritise wellness practices like stretching, mindful breathing, or walking outside. These rituals replace the usual evening drink with something that genuinely nourishes body and mind.

Luxury becomes about quality rather than quantity—buying a favourite plant, lighting a scented candle, or wearing comfortable clothes that make them feel good.

These choices foster contentment without excess, proving that sobriety can redefine what real luxury means.

Ritual	Purpose	Example
Tea or coffee ritual	Calm start to day	Loose leaf jasmine tea
Mindful movement	Physical and mental ease	Gentle yoga or evening walk
Self-care treat	Simple indulgence	Soft blanket or skincare ritual

Frequently Asked Questions

Many sober influencers are transforming our view of luxury by showing how elegance and indulgence can live without alcohol. These leaders bring mindfulness, style, and fresh experiences to the high-end world. They challenge traditional ideas about glamour and open new doors for connection and enjoyment.

Who are the trailblazers leading the charge on sober luxury?

Michael Sargood (@happywithoutthehooch) shares honest, warm stories about living sober with humour.

Anna Forest combines mindfulness and luxury travel to prove sober life can be richly indulgent.

Dani Marie (@wearesober) is creating a stylish, authentic community focused on sober living.

Dean Fagan brings expert-led, non-alcoholic cocktail experiences to the luxury scene.

Sasha Rees (@soberandsassy) blends glamour with sober self-care, showing how luxury doesn’t need alcohol.

What transformations have you seen in the luxury space since embracing sobriety?

Luxury is shifting from flashy excess to thoughtful experiences.

There’s more focus on wellness, craftsmanship, and meaningful indulgence.

Non-alcoholic drinks have become art forms, and trips now centre on mindfulness, not just parties.

Sober influencers show luxury as a space where inner peace fits alongside outer style.

Could you share some tips for navigating high-end social gatherings without alcohol?

First, have a signature non-alcoholic drink ready – make it something you enjoy.

Focus on genuine conversations instead of the drink in your hand.

Practice a simple line for when people ask why you’re not drinking, like “I’m enjoying this clear head tonight.”

Remember, it’s okay to step outside or take a breath if things feel overwhelming.

Are there any podcasts that delve into the intersection of opulence and sober living?

Podcasts like “The Sober Curious Podcast” explore how luxury and mindfulness blend.

“Eat Sleep Sober” interviews people transforming their relationship with indulgence.

These shows offer both stories and practical advice for those curious about living richly without booze.

How has the sober curious trend impacted the portrayal of indulgence in the media?

Media now showcases sober luxury as stylish and powerful, not restrictive.

There’s more visibility of people choosing sobriety for clarity, health, and creativity.

Luxury brands are adapting, offering alcohol-free options and experiences that focus on wellbeing.

The trend redefines indulgence away from excess to quality and meaning.

What are the understated benefits of a sober lifestyle for those accustomed to the finer things?

Sober living sharpens senses, making tastes, scents, and sights more vivid.

It allows deeper connections without the fog of alcohol clouding experiences.

Energy stays steady, making travel and events more enjoyable and less draining.

One sober traveller said, “True luxury begins when the mind is clear enough to notice it.”