A little note: When I started my Substack, I used it as a way for me to express my creativity and passion for writing mixed in with images that bring me inspriation. I’ve always been a visual person and when I see something I like, I get this gut feeling of “that’s it, this is for me” or “this doesn’t serve me”. Maybe it’s intuition, but I like to think of it as the creative direction guiding me in constructing my life. So, I've decided to give this voice a platform and write this post inspired by the classic September issue of Vogue. Historically the biggest issue of the publication filled with glossy pages of beautiful imagery, thoughtful articles and inspiration of what is to come for the season ahead. This is my September issue - enjoy! xo
Monthly Mantra - “New Beginnings”
September has always felt like a the start of a new year to me. Growing up in New York, we wait all year for the summer and when it’s over the new cycle of anticipation begins. Maybe it’s that lingering memory of school starting this time of year, or having a fall birthday that makes me longing for a fresh start. I’m closing out the last year of my 20’s and I’m so excited for what’s to come in the next decade of my life. So in honor of new beginnings and to quote one of my favorite writers, “Life starts all over again when it gets crisp in the fall.” - F. Scott Fitzgerald.
Ins / Outs
Ins
seaside walks
simple silhouettes
vintage cars
pinky blush
brown leather
personal decor
citrus flavors
saying “yes”
Outs
TikTok trends
overly glossy
overly matte
others opinions’
staying in
bold colors
needing to know
Style
Classic, Cool & Flexible - September brings warm days, chill nights and a sweet coolness in the air. This time of year, I love bringing out classic colors like navy, white, black, brown and mixing them with timeless wardrobe pieces like a great pair of jeans, basic tshirt, mini skirts, or a cashmere sweater. When I think of September, I think of a white tshirt, Levi jeans, a bathing suit in my bag and a cozy sweater tied around my shoulders. Giving your wardrobe (& yourself) a chance to play between the seasons brings an easier transition into fall.
In my cart
Norma Kamali Sleeveless Shirred Waist Mini Dress
Reformation Ryan Cotton Zip Sweater
Beauty
Blushing All Over Town - I try to keep my makeup pretty simple, but my one non-negotiable is blush. I love a blush that gives you that rosy glow and looks like a natural flush mixed with a little too much sun.
Home
Coastal core with an exotic twist - Your home should tell the story of you. Where you’ve been, what you like to do, what makes you feel at home, and what bring you peace. Growing up by the water, I always feel more comfortable with coastal influences in my space, but I love to mix it up with eclectic pieces. My apartment has in simple linens with an oriental rug, hand crafted wood furniture, decor pieces from my travels, black and white photography, and cool blue tones to pull that calming coastal vibe. I love the idea of an elevated coastal cottage with modern influences. Here’s what I’m pulling for inspiration:
Self
Opportunities & Chances - Give yourself the space to make room for new experiences to flow into your life. Take a look and ask if certain habits, people, places, etc are making you happy. In a very Marie Kondo style, if it doesn’t bring you joy then get rid of it. Don’t think about how it will make others feel, think or act towards you - your life is up to you. If you’re not content in yourself then it’s time to take a chance on you and give your self the opportunity to create the life of your dreams. We’re all worthy of it.
Nourish
Monthly Recipe: Lemon Chicken Soup
Ingredients:
(warning: I don’t really measure exact ingredients so use seasonings to taste)
4 large bone-in chicken breasts
Salt & pepper, to taste
2 boxes of chicken stock (1 salted, 1 unsalted)
1 box of chicken broth
3 celery stalks, chopped
3 large carrots, chopped
1 yellow onion, finely chopped
4 garlic cloves, minced
1 tbsp ginger, grated
2 bay leaves
2 tbsp dill
2 tbsp thyme
Juice of 2 lemons
Olive oil, for cooking
Directions:
Heat oil in a large pot over medium heat. Season the chicken breasts with salt and pepper, then brown them in the pot on both sides. Once browned, remove the chicken from the pot and set it aside. (Don’t worry that it’s not cooked all the way, they’ll continue to cook later on in the broth)
In the same pot, add a bit more oil if needed. Add the chopped onion and cook until translucent. Then add the minced garlic and grated ginger, and cook until fragrant. Stir in the chopped celery and carrots, season with salt and pepper, and cook until the vegetables are soft and tender.
Pour in the chicken stock and broth, and add the chicken back into the pot. Squeeze in the juice of two lemons then add thyme, dill, bay leaves, and additional salt and pepper to taste.
Bring the soup to a boil, then reduce the heat and let simmer for 2 hours. Taste the broth as it cooks and add seasoning as needed.
Once the chicken is falling off the bone, being to shred the meat in the pot and remove bones.
Toast your favorite bread, serve & enjoy!
Thanks for reading, and I’ll be sharing more with you soon.
Sincerley,
Kierstin M. Vermeulen