Just Checking In — with Michelle
A series of catching up with friends, near and far.
ft.
~ A Reintroduction ~
I’m so excited to bring back Just Checking In, a series I started during lockdown to stay connected and feel inspired. I thought it could be nice to let you get to know me a bit more since it’s been a while since I last opened up on the journal! Keep an eye out for some exciting interviews with friends who I admire greatly. <3
What’s your favourite morning bev?
I recently got an espresso machine at home (a great secondhand find!) and have been enjoying a nice lil flat white with honey in the mornings. These days I’m drinking them over ice which is an exciting sign that warm weather is near!
Describe your style in 3 words:
Uniform, Juxtaposed, 90’s-Inspired.
What is your uniform outfit?
A long skirt (especially with pleats or ruching)
a romantic white top,
an oversized jacket with the top button done up,
a leather boot or loafer,
a bag big enough for all my junk. :)
A song/album you have on repeat:
I’ve been playing Crushing and Pre-Pleasure by Julia Jacklin non-stop on vinyl at home and in the car with the windows down. I’m also loving this playlist I found via a friend on Instagram, it’s perfect to throw on while making breakfast.
What keeps you grounded?
Having simple routines, as well as breaks of spontaneity! I really value waking up early, being in nature and spending quality time alone because it allows me to create space and stillness in my days. I’m trying to get better at making time to connect with my friends and family and explore new creative hobbies/projects solely for fun at least once a week.
Fav meal to make at home?
I was recently obsessed with this sandwich for a few weeks!
Just can’t get enough.
Sardines & Greens on a Baguette
Fresh local sourdough baguette
Salted butter
Edamame & kale dip from Farmboy
Spring mix tossed with a simple homemade vinaigrette and feta. I love using the strawberry rose vinegar from Acid League in mine!
Jarred smoked sardines, mashed into the edamame dip
Some banana peppers if I’m feelin’ spicy
A lot of napkins because it gets MESSY!
How do you find inspiration?
I feel extremely inspired by the small details around me — My journals, camera roll, office walls and Pinterest boards are full of things that moved me in some small way. Whether it’s the colour palette of a flower I saw on a walk, a vintage interior I admired in a book, or the art and style of women like Georgia O’Keeffe. Recently I’ve found lots of fashion inspiration from 1990’s Prada, Miu Miu, and Calvin Klein runway shows, and independent brands like Nong Rak, Paloma Wool, and Sandy Liang. I’ve been saving a lot of vintage matchbooks and stamps on Pinterest over the last few years because I love the bold yet simple art!
What’s one recurring theme in your life right now?
Hmmm I would say ‘Spiralling’. In every way possible, I’ve been confronted by spirals both graphic and emotional. I’m not sure what it all means, but I’m just taking note and letting them run their course. I have a big life change happening later this year and I often catch myself spiralling about the details, what could go wrong, and just entertaining my typical self doubt.
I’m being drawn to archival images of Spirals that have been populating my Pinterest. I also took a special vacation with family in February and was surrounded by Conch shells and other spiral motifs. I’ve always enjoyed noticing themes and collecting personal motifs, so it’s been interesting to collect these symbols as they come.
One little moment that brightened your day recently?
My partner Caleb has been sending me photos of the Spring Blooms in Victoria, since it’s been so grey and dull here at home. They make my days so much brighter :’).
What are you currently reading/watching/listening to?
📔 I just finished ‘Writers and Lovers’ by Lily King and ‘Sweetbitter’ by Stephanie Danler! Though the settings were very similar, I enjoyed the introspective ramblings of Writers and Lovers yet disliked the pacing and narration of Sweetbitter. A fun comparison for sure!
🎞 I’ve been watching the Mandalorian & Ted Lasso with Caleb, and trying to make the most of my Criterion Collection membership before it expires. I watched a lot of Eric Rohmer’s films at the beginning of Spring, which have been heavily influencing my recent vintage collections.
📻 I’m looking for some podcasts now that I’m working from home full time, I would love some suggestions. :-)
Fav vintage item you own?
This is an impossible question haha! Right now it’s probably between this vintage dress I found in Thailand a few years ago, which I’ve been gravitating more towards this year, and this comfy leather bentwood chair I found secondhand on Facebook Marketplace. It’s my fav comfy spot to read, knit, and play Animal Crossing.
Thanks for checking in. <3