“More soon from a new room”
A Self portrait series in Quarantine: Mar-Aug 2020
3/30/20 (day 14 of quarantine): "Maintaining." Anyone else really on top of their skincare game right now? Putting face oil on is so soothing to me. I don’t think my face has ever been so properly moisturized. This is the first self-portrait of a series I'm starting this week, which will eventually culminate in the Spring 2020 lookbook. Every day, I'm taking a quick pic in a different room in my home - capturing this season as honestly as I feel it, half painted nails and all. #makinglemonade xKristine
4/01/20: "Holding it together” ...literally and figuratively. Also fighting this urge to paint every wall in my home. Anyone else feeling the need to HGTV your whole living space? If you start seeing jewel tone walls as this series continues, you'll know why. My plan to do this on the daily was a bit ambitious for my headspace, so I'm keeping at it, but at a more flexible pace. More soon from a new room, and in the meantime sending you lots of light from this one! xKristine
4/02/20: "I'm in the house. I'm in the house bored." I told my husband to not mind me and keep on gaming... I think he nailed it. This season might have more puttering around the house and in each other's grill than normal, but even so - being with my boys is life! They don’t make appearances on here often (like this might be John's debut), but this wouldn't be an at-home series without them. My boys make every place home. xKristine
4/05/20: "Leaning into the normal." Even during unprecedented times, Sunday is still laundry day and hallelujah for that honey! Doing laundry, washing dishes, sweeping, cooking, baking and repeat... I've been savoring chores around the house that make today feel normal. Like I could head down the street and sit in a packed coffee shop for a while. Regardless of how deep you are into quarantine, I hope you continue to discover moments of peace, reassurance and joy in unexpected places. More soon from a new room. Until then, happy weekend queen! xKristine
4/08/20: "Cocooning." Woke up this morning and it just felt right. #lovethatformyjourney Still emotionally recovering from the Schitt's Creek finale last night. Trying to emotionally prepare for Modern Family finale tonight. What's a woman to do, but channel her inner David and restart Schitt's Creek from the beginning. I need the Roses in my life rn! How are my fellow SC fans coping? More soon from a new room. Until then, best wishes and warmest regards. Also, mark all of my rsvps as “pending.” xKristine
4/09/20: "Camouflage." Finally in that stage of quarantine where I just start blending into my house... On the plus side though, this is the strongest my loungewear game has been so far. #littlewins Quick tips for dressing on point while feeling comfy: Maintain free-range of motion: whether your outfit is oversized, form fitting or a mix of both, make sure you can move your body however the heck you want. / Keep it knit: No shade to wovens, but knits are inherently flexible and stretchy (aka comfy.) / Try going monochromatic: There's something about dressing in one color scheme that elevates the most loungey look. (Case in point- the "moment" I'm having alone in my dining room) Have any comfy fashion tips of your own? Lmk so I can give them a go. More soon from a new room. Until then, keep comfy queens! xKristine
4/10/20: "Twinning" ...or at least trying to. Normally Monty is the thirsty one in the relationship, but after this past month, we've experienced a shift in dynamic. Just when we didn't think I could get more into my cats... #shameless #catmomlife He was v uninterested in the shoot at first, but I eventually won him over (swipe to see the progression). More soon from a new room. Until then, happy Friday queen! I hope it's as cozy as Monty on his cat tree. xKristine
4/13/20: “Back to center." Over 1 month in lockdown now. Some days have been good and some have been hard, but it's a new week bb. Let's bring it in and celebrate our resilience. One hour at a time, one day at a time, we're making it through! I’ve even finally painted all of my nails so... #littlewins How about you boo? Shout out your recent wins so we can celebrate together! Better days are on their way - my Oma said so. Until then, have a beautiful Monday. More soon from a new room. xKristine
4/14/20: "Gardens" ...Grey Gardens. I finally watched Grey Gardens! #mood for rest of quarantine. Ok so channeling this vibe came almost too easily for me, but I don’t even care. Little Edie's style is in a league of its own and I can't help but be inspired. In some more reassuring news, I still only have two cats and no raccoons. Okay, have you seen this doc yet?? It's been on my watchlist forever and surpassed my expectations. I was a little worried it would make me sad, but really I just found myself celebrating the authenticity of this mother-daughter pair and the history they lived. More soon from a new room. Until then, keep twirling and singing and staying home in creative headscarves like Big and Little Edie. xKristine
4/15/20: "Making it work." Basically #mood of the season. I’ve talked w a bunch of makers, who are wary about photographing/modeling their work while in lockdown. I’m no expert (you've seen my awk #bts), but this past year of solo shoots has taught me something I want everyone to hear: When it comes to making sales, professional photos aren't a make or break factor. There it is! I said it! Over the years, I’ve spent a lot of $ to photograph products I never sold, and I've also sold many products whose pics I snapped with my iphone. So try not to stress about how profesh your at-home photoshoot is. So long as you capture the essentials, you’ll be set. Today in the JOURNAL, I share 5 tips to help you focus you efforts. In these uncertain times, the fact you’re stepping out of your comfort zone to show up your business/passion is incredible! That’s an A++ in my book, and I hope you're proud of yourself too. More soon from a new room. Until then, good luck boo. You've got this! xKristine
4/16/20: "Bloom where you’re planted." #stayhome This time last year, I traveled north to the tulips. This year, I traveled again... ...around the neighborhood that is! It's beautiful out, so I decided to mix things up, and take this self-portrait series to the streets. I set out to admire the neighborhood tulips, and they’re as lovely as ever! Think of today’s self portrait as my attempt at selfies w flowers that weren’t even in my yard. It’s a #wip. More soon from a new room (an actual room next time). Until then, I hope you're enjoying the day and getting some restorative time outdoors. xKristine
4/17/20: "WFH meets TGIF meets I might be a little stir crazy." Not really questioning it, just leaning in. Although weekdays look a lot like weekends rn, there's still reason to celebrate the sweet magic of logging out of your work inbox and taking a break. #byeeee What plans are you looking forward to? I’m personally excited to bake some scones and catch up on my Bravo stories - s/o #rhobh #rhony More soon from a new room! Until then, happy weekend queen! Whatever your plans, I hope you enjoy some rest. xKristine
4/19/20: "Sunday's at home." #itsamood Made the most of the occasion by actually putting in my contacts, popping some rose and whipping up some scones. (I finally landed on raspberry almond with white chocolate...yes girl!) More soon from a new room. Until then, enjoy the rest of your weekend queen! #treatyoself xKristine
4/21/20: "Sister sister." And just like that, I entered the stage of quarantine where I'm not only blending into my home, but I'm full on matching the artwork... #proudly. Introducing the "Wake Up and Dream" Print! Hand-drawn, textured and human. This is the drawing that inspired the sweater, and now she's here to bring that same magic to your home. All prints are limited edition so don't wait to claim yours now. More soon from a new room! Until then, let's keep on dreaming! xKristine
4/22/20: "Channeling my inner Ferngully" ...with a photo I took on Monday bc everyday is #earthday (and bc I knew today was going to rain.) It felt approps to literally wear my heart on my sleeve for this one. Every year, I've seen this day and the Fashion Revolution movement grow - such a hopeful sign of where this industry and our culture are going. It's certainly not easier to operate as a slow, sustainable knitwear brand. Sometimes it's straight up disheartening. But my cup refills every time I hear from you: that your Declarative knits are serving you well, that you're shopping more intentionally, supporting local brands, eye rolling at greenwashing and taking great care of the clothes already in your closet. You keep me motivated to keep forging my way - slowly, thoughtfully, one row at a time. And speaking of "forging my way"...yes, I am wearing a skirt as a dress. I regret nothing. More soon from a new room. Until then, happy Earth Day queen! Lmk one sustainable step you took to celebrate today! xKristine
4/24/20: "Hold the line" - a Friday PSA. Anyone else really struggling to be present or find solitude during this quarantine?? I don’t think I’ve had a harder time, and the irony isn’t lost on me. Everyone knows I'm home so how can I not respond to a text right away? Is it okay to let a call go to voicemail? Am I allowed to disconnect from my phone and business when we all know there's nothing else going on over here? The answer is a hard 👏🏼 yes 👏🏼 honey! 👏🏼 Just bc we're all sheltering in place doesn't mean we have to be available or productive all the time. Quarantine or not. Wfh or not. Maintain your boundaries the best you can. Draw the curtains, light some candles and sit with yourself in silence for a while. Just be where you are with whoever you're there with. That's where you’ll find me for the time being. More soon from a new room. Until then, tgif! Wishing you calm and presence. xKristine
4/27/20: "Arrived.” Allegedly it's Monday? Who knows, but we're showing up nonetheless. Extra.Even though life is v "groundhog" day right now, every day is still brand new. A new mood, a new level of motivation, a new opportunity to do what you can. Sometimes that means slaying the to-do list (you know, classic productivity stuff.) Other times, it’s just successfully showering and feeding yourself. I try not to judge either in this strange season because they both mean I'm showing up for myself (And therefore Declarative). They're both progress. Even the smallest steps will eventually take you to where you're headed. So take them boo! As much as you can each day, whatever that looks like for you. You are on your way! We all are! More soon from a new room. Until then, have a beautiful start to your week (that is, assuming this is Monday...) xKristine
4/29/20: "In the moment." Idk if it’s the brooch or the cardi drape, but... there she is. Rbf coming to you live. No joke, this is the first pic I took in today's shoot and nothing captured my mood more perfectly. Honestly, I'm not even sure what my mood is other than complicated. A weird mix of grateful, drained, over it and then grateful again. Complicated. How are you feeling queen? More soon from a new room. Until then, hope you're hanging in there too. Don't forget that this is just for now, not forever. Also (unrelated), maybe we should wear brooches more often?? Idk, I feel like it’s working. xKristine
4/30/20: "Nesting pt 2." aka the knitter is back! You've prob noticed I haven't been in the studio much these past two months. After my wrist injury, I lost all motivation to be up here. Looking at my machine and not being about to knit - not knowing when I'd be able to knit again - straight up, this room made me sad. So I moved my work to my dining table and that's where I've been... until now. Recently, things have been coming back around. I’m beginning to feeling like I want to be back up here again. So today, I gave myself a fresh start. I reorganized the whole space, which included FINALLY moving the yarn library into the light and right next to my machine where she belongs! Idk when I'll be knitting like my old self again, but my wrist is healing, I've slowly started knitting orders again (thank you for your patience) and I'm already dreaming up summer pieces! More soon from a new room. Until then, cheers to restorative power of spring cleaning! 🌸🧼 xKristine
5/2/20: “Weekend plans.” Full transparency: today's self portrait was taken a few weeks ago, but let’s be real - it’s kind of all the same these days, isn’t it? PS- if you're also in love with a gamer, I'm sorry if this image is triggering. This is my life now. That said, do you have any activity recs that you've been loving lately? Not asking for a friend - send them my way. More soon from a new room! Until then, enjoy your weekend! I hope it’s as relaxing as Hurricane is on John’s lap. xKristine
5/6/20: "Spending time in nature." It's what everyone keeps suggesting to fight the quarantine blues so I'm leaning in ...literally ...and my neighbors were like "wtf is she up to?"... No regrets. More soon from a new room! Until then, I hope you're enjoying this transitional time of year where sweaters and flowers are the perfect combination. I know I am (even if these days that just means standing in a flower tree/bush in the yard). xKristine
5/7/20: "Stay in my own lane?" Uhh honey bear, I make my own lane. We all do. The work you create, interests you explore, skills you cultivate, dreams you pursue - it's all an open road for you to forge for yourself and update along the way. Real talk: There's this lame pressure to fit yourself in a box under the tidy label of one thing (usually the thing you're naturally good at.) I've felt it. I’ve tried molding myself to it. For the first half of my 20s, it was under "graphic designer." For the second half, it was "knitter." Well boo, I'm 30 now... and really I'm a bit of both PLUS so many other things. We’re ALL so many things - complex and multifaceted, basically diamonds. So shine on queen! Make your lane as you want it to be! Keep growing and trying and doing the things that make you excited. More soon from a new room, xKristine
5/9/20: "Trivia night is Disney themed..." ...🤔 ...Let me get my yarn. @sami_hoelli and @skotskot let me join in one their family zoom trivia night, and it turns out my closet leans way more towards villain than princess. So I'm just leaning in. In 15 productive minutes, I put this looks together and put my yarn (and robe) (and BFA) to great use. More soon from a new room. Until then, I hope you're having a fun Saturday night too! xKristine
5/12/20: "Day 1000." Okay, that number is an exaggeration, but the mood isn't. It’s been over 2 months in quarantine now. More soon from a new room. Until then, keep hanging in there and cocooning when necessary. We're getting through. xKristine
5/14/20: "Not your grandma's greeting cards." Want to spread the love while staying apart? Me too. Enter: our first collection of greeting cards. The world is your oyster with these bbs: you can send them as is or color them in to create special designs for your special loved ones. Either way, it's the perf surprise for the ppl you're missing the most. Each card features a blank interior and matching white envelope to showcase your handwritten note and artwork on the front. Bring on the masterpieces! Available individually and in sets. More soon from a new room. Until then, cheers to the magic of snail mail bringing us together while we're staying apart. I can't wait to see how you make these cards your own. xKristine
5/18/20: "Shouldn't you be further along?" 🤨 Uhh honey bear, idk... Maybe? Maybe not? Does it really matter? I don't think it does. I'm here now, so this is where I’m starting from today. Regardless of the mistakes made and opportunities missed, all of that is in the past where it belongs. Today is a new day. Wherever you are in the process, this your starting point. So let's bloom from here! Everything that's happened before was prep for what's coming next. There is no "should be further along." You're exactly where you‘re supposed to be. We each are. More soon from a new room. Until then, have a wonderful start to your work week. Cheers to meeting yourself where you are and slaying from there! xKristine
5/20/20: "Twilight zone" What day is it? What month is it? March lasted for 5 years, April hardly happened, and murder hornets arrived from space in UFOs. Idk. I'll just be cozy in my house. Lmk when I can reemerge. More soon from a new room. Until then, happy... mid may (wtf??) queens. Even though dates and calendars mean very little these days, I hope you’re still finding joy in this season. Also, what do we think of the styling of the Oma Cardi? I’m kind of into this one button sitch. xKristine
5/21/20: “Cinderella stays home, but dresses up anyway” ...and still manages to lose a shoe. More soon from a new room. Until then, cheers to wearing whatever the heck you want and always feeling 100% in your clothes. xKristine
PS- As for me today? This Cinderella is proudly dressed in head to toe Declarative. #imademyclothes
5/22/20: "Coyote Ugly? Nope, it’s just my Friday night at home." I’m entering this 3-day weekend with no plans, but celebrating nonetheless. Bring on the yard projects (if it doesn't rain), making my Oma's apple pie and binge watching more Gossip Girl - like I could say it's not happening, but we all know it is. What plans are you looking forward to?? Although this weekend might not include classic group bbqs and hangouts at the shore, cheers to starting off summer with the same excitement for the warmer days that approach. It’s def worth climbing onto a table for. More soon from a new room. Until then, happy 3-day weekend queen! xKristine
5/24/20: "Memorial Day weekend 2020" ...aka, grandma is lounging in the garden and savoring the sun while it's out. (And yes girl, I can go from SJP 80s vibes to Grey Gardens on the turn of a dime... proudly.) There are no plans for the day, so I'm just sitting out here, mindlessly sketching flowers and enjoying the time. More soon from a new room. Until then, have a safe and wonderful weekend! Whether your outdoors or inside, I hope you're enjoying the time too. xKristine
5/26/20: “Too old?” 🤨 Uhh, no honey bear. I’m freaking timeless, and so are you. We're always growing up (and note the "up.”) From a bebe to child. From teen to young adult. From seasoned adult to freaking matriarch. It’s all growth into a new stage of life, and even though it’s sometimes scary, it doesn't have to be a bad thing. Youth doesn't have to be chased or envied. You never have to be "over the hill," unless you chose to be.
You might eye roll when I say this, but here it is anyway. When I was 24, I felt too old (I know, bless my heart.) When I was 28, I felt too old. Now I’m 30 and see those ages in a much kinder light. And I know one day I’ll look at 30 in the same way. One day, I’ll look at 60 in the same way. In this moment, you're the oldest you’ve ever been and the youngest you’ll ever be again. You're freaking timeless queen! If there's something you want to start, do it. It's not too late. You're not too old to begin now. More soon from a new room. Until then, sending lots of love my fellow dreamer. xKristine
5/29/20: "The simple life. 🌾” Not the show. Just a woman, who's still reveling in her new studio drawer - a testament to my Type A nature and how exciting life looks rn. (I know. Like woah girl, slow down) But it's cool. I'll gladly celebrate anything that brings some wind into my sails, even a drawer on wheels. Spark that joy honey! More soon from a new room. Until then, tgif queen! I hope you're finding excitement in the little things too, whatever they may be. Feel like sharing with the rest of team Quarantine? Shout them out below. We’re in this together. xKristine
Oh! I almost forgot to mention, this dress was my recent treat to myself from @editorconsign! #shoplocal
6/8/20: "Let it enfold you.” Anddd this is what happens after 3 months of solitude... I rediscover the emo hits of my youth and start lurking around the willow tree. Luckily, the long bangs and heavy-handed eyeliner remain in 2007. More soon from a new room. Until then, here's to still remembering every word off of "Three Cheers for Sweet Revenge," but never remembering if the recycling goes out this week. #adultingsohard
I also hope you're hanging in there boo. This has been a very heavy couple of months so remember to give yourself a lot of grace in this season. Pull over, care for yourself and feel your feelings (maybe even throw on some emo tunes to set the mood.) This is a tough time of transition and we’re going to get through. And the world will be better for it. xKristine
6/9/20: "2020." The year that looked nothing like we thought it would, but brought a new pace, a deeper perspective and overdue change. Oh, and it also facilitated a self portrait with my washer before it died today... so there's that too, I guess. More soon from a new room (hopefully tomorrow, in my studio). Until then, here's to being open, to listening and learning, to growing through tough transitions and uncertain times. Here's to focusing on the light. xKristine
6/11/20: “What if you never ‘make it?’” Ohh honey bear. You know, that might be true. There's no guarantee and maybe I won’t. But even so... even if after all these years of effort, $$ and heart, I fall short... well, at least I spent my time exactly as I wanted. Trying to build the life of my dreams and doing something I enjoy in the process. Regardless of the final score, it was time best spend. And that is enough.
Time is our most valuable resource, and the way we choose to spend it literally IS our lives. So why not toss the "what if's" to the curb and just go for it? Say what's in your heart, advocate for the things that matter, pursue the career you want, try and try and try some more. Do you really lose anything if you fall short? I'd say no, so long as you're being fulfilled by the journey. It's all net positive! More soon from a new room. Until then, keep living boldly queen. I'm cheering you on from my little studio that can. xKristine
6/12/20: “What if you never 'make it?' Pt 2 - a Christmas miracle” You work from home? You don’t have any employees? So you're still not making a living from this little project? It was Christmas. I was sitting at the table and taking these judgements with a smile. I felt defeated and embarrassed. I'd probably cry later. Up to this point, this was a conversation I’ve had many times before. That is, until he said, “It’s okay. You’re so talented and clearly still figuring out what you want to do.” Um hold the phone honey bear... “No, I’m doing exactly what I want to do.” There it was, from my gut. Words I'd never even said to myself before. Honestly, I don’t think he heard them. His mind was made up about. But my response left a big impression on me.
Unlike the times before, I didn’t cry over this conversation that night. I didn’t feel hurt or bad about myself. A switch had flipped. I finally understood the this person and the others before - regardless of how much they cared and how long they’d been in my life - they didn't know about me what I knew about myself. And they didn't have to understand. Regardless of where I'm at rn or if I'll ever "make it," I’m doing exactly what I want to do and that is enough.
And the same applies to you. When fear or remarks come, don't let them deter you from your direction. You're the trailblazer of your life, walking YOUR path. You know where you’re going. It might not feel that way every day, but deep down you know. And guess what? You’re the ONLY person who needs to know. Girl, I'm right there with you, cheering you on. Wherever you are rn, you're on your way to what is meant for you. Don’t let the “what if's” and opinions of others make you believe otherwise. Just keep going and enjoy the ride along the way. More soon from a new room, xKristine
6/15/20: "Come on through.” Ready or not, this unprecedented spring of ours is making way for summer! That means there's only 1 WEEK LEFT to order FW19 knits before we roll them up for the season. As the perfect send off, 15% of ALL orders made this week (knits, prints, everything) will be donated to @thelovelandfoundation. Idk what the upcoming months will have in store, but if this past spring has taught me anything, it’s that 1) new beginnings are hidden in painful transitions, 2) we can take things as they come, and 3) soft sweaters never hurt. More soon from a new room. Until then, cheers to leaning into what’s next - whatever that may be. xKristine
6/18/20: "I wanted a moment." Soft cotton, gorgeous drape and lace for days. Yasss girl! Allow me to reintroduce this SS17 fan-fave: the Sunlight Top! A perfect balance of modern and romantic, with intricate hand-seaming to boot. Get ready to beat the heat in style! Now available in three colors - black, white and natural. Shop now. The cherry on top? 15% of all orders this week (until June 22nd) will be donated to @thelovelandfoundation. More soon from a new room. Until then, cheers to the magic of an effortless outfit and bringing your own fan. xKristine
6/20/20: "No jk." When getting ready for dinner out at a restaurant is basically like getting ready for prom. This is where life's at right now, and ya girl is making the most of the occasion. #notsorry I can't tell you how excited I am to be fed by a stranger and enjoy that meal not at my house. Let's just hope I don't get overwhelmed in the moment and order something super basic off the menu, like something I could easily make myself. Wish me luck! Have you had a meal out yet? Was it everything you dreamed it would be?? More soon from a new room. Until then, enjoy your weekend queen! Whether you're safely adventuring out or staying cozy at home, cheers to getting cute whenever the heck we're feeling it! xKristine
6/22/20: "Here" ...physically and emotionally. I keep reminding myself over and over again: There is no where you "should" be. There's just where you are right now. Regardless of mistakes made, opportunities missed or plans postponed (...uh hello 2020), look around you. This is where you’re at. Wherever that is and whatever that looks like - it’s your starting point. It's Monday. Let's bloom from here! It might not always feel like it (how I know it), but you are exactly where you're supposed to be. Lean in, and let the would have's, should have's and what if's go. More soon from a new room. Until then, cheers to trusting the process and hanging in there, even when it’s hard. You’re not alone in that boat - I’m right there beside you, holding your hand. xKristine
6/24/20: "Lightbulb moment." Eep! I have a new idea for a passion project and could really use your help with this one. I'm still in the research phase and honing in on exactly what this proj will be, but I'm certain that I want it to be some kind of record of this wild year. This is where you come in. I'd love to hear more about your personal experience. To facilitate this anonymously, I created a quick questionnaire for you to fill out. It's only 12 questions, meant to be answered quickly with whatever comes to mind first. Feel free to be as brief or in depth as you'd like. All responses are completely anonymous, even to me. If you have a minute to contribute, I'd really appreciate it! 👉🏼 Link in bio to fill out the quick questionnaire. More soon from a new room. Until then, thank you so much for taking the time to contribute. This project is going to be so much richer with your voice in this. xKristine
6/26/20: I'd call it "The year of trying to find the light" ...or "wt actual f." (My face says it all.) If 2020 was a chapter in a book, what title would you give it? 👉🏼 Want to share more of your experience of 2020 and contribute to my current passion project? Link in bio to fill out a quick questionnaire. All responses are completely anonymous, even to me. If you have a minute to contribute, I'd really appreciate it! More soon from a new room. Until then, thank you so much for participating! Idk exactly how it's all going to come together yet, but I know it's going to be all the better for having your story in it. #tgif queen! xKristine
6/30/20: Team effort." Thank you so so much for contributing to the 2020 passion project questionnaire! I've just started going through your thoughtful responses and they are sparking ideas already ✨ Many have asked, "what's my vision for this project," and truthfully, I don’t really have one yet. I have a few ideas circling at this point, but here's what I know for sure: 1- The final piece will act as a record of this unprecedented time. 2- It'll include many points of view (thank you for including yours). 3- And I hope the outcome makes us all feel a little less alone in our feelings and experience.
How will that all come about? Idk yet, but there's a Frida Kahlo quote that's my guiding light for this project, "It's true. I'm here and I'm just as strange as you." That's the heartbeat of this project. It's about you and I, us all. I'm trusting in the process, listening to your words and letting that inspire the rest. More soon from a new room, and I’ll be keeping you updated on how this project takes shape along the way. Until then, here's to being a team and pushing the needle towards the light. xKristine
7/2/20: "Hello Seattle summer" ...Uh did you know it's now July?? It hardly feels like it. For one, the weather is currently very "may" over here. For another, when was June? On the plus side though, this sweater collab with @katybiele is so on point for a cool, overcast day like this. No jk, her embroidery bringing some much needed color into my world rn. This peplum is originally from the FW17 collection: Lady of the Lake (#tbt). Katy livened it up with her beautiful embroidered ladies and flowers, giving this old piece new life. Yasss! Spark that joy honey! More soon from a new room. Until then, have a wonderful weekend queen! (I know it's only Thursday, but tbh I'm in a Friday state of mind) Whether you're enjoying time outdoors or indoors, I hope you're finding moments of joy in this chaotic season. And if you something to lift the mood, head on over to @katybiele to see more of colorful, magical her work. It will do the trick. xKristine
7/5/20: "Sunday scaries" It's a #mood... a lame ass mood. I was feeling great allllll weekend long, but... is it just me, or is there something about Sunday night that brings up anxiety and overwhelm for the week ahead? What am I going to do this week? Will they be the right things - the kind of things that will push the needle forward and get me to where I want to go? How am I going to make it all happen? ...😑... Oy vey. A lot on my mind and no answers in sight tonight. I'm leaving the studio, putting on @schittscreek and reminding myself on repeat that everything comes right on schedule (just like Moira’s comeback with “The Crows Have Eyes 2”) More soon from a new room. Until then, cheers to turning anxious Sunday nights into peaceful ones with the Rose family. We are right on time. We are right on time. xKristine
7/8/20: "My version of Munch's 'The Scream' ...2020 edition” Curious to know what's been keeping people sane lately? What are the most common struggles, pleasant surprises, silver linings of 2020 and more? I have good news. Remember two weeks ago? I wanted to create a passion project about this wild year we're having, but needed more insight. That's where you stepped in to help. 81 of you kindly contributed their stories to an anonymous questionnaire, and omg, they sparked so much inspiration! Two projects are already in the works, and at the heart of it all, my hope is that this series will help us feel a little less alone in our feelings and experiences. In the spirit of that, I'm sharing some common themes and responses from the survey today in the JOURNAL. See what people said about their experience of 2020 so far. More soon from a new room, xKristine
7/13/20: "New week, new glasses, who dis?" This might be my most exciting update since quarantine life began, and I'm here for it! I just got new glasses for the first time in 5 years, and basically my whole house is now a runway. Whatever brings some wind into the sails! #leaningin More soon, from a new room. Until then, cheers to the week ahead and doing what we can to bloom in this strange season. No step is too small or mundane. Whether it’s making exciting moves or just honing in on the simple, day to day things - both are magic, just like you. xKristine
7/15/20: "Leaning into nature... like actually." In memory of this curtain of leaves. Well, I did it. I successfully procrastinated from studio work with yard work all day. I went to the hardware store first thing this morning, bought a tree trimmer (I know, like who am I rn?) and gave this willow cutie a much needed hair cut. This may be the most out of character procrastination detour of my life (let's be real, I'm a glamper at best), but it's 2020. Anything is possible. More soon from a new room (hopefully tomorrow, in my studio). Until then, here's to giving ourselves the grace to procrastinate when we need it and to enjoying a warm, sunny days when we have them. xKristine
7/17/20: Trust yourself - that you've prepared enough and worked hard enough. You've done your best. You’ve done all you can. You are worthy. Your dream is out there waiting for you.
Regardless of what this week looked like - the highs and lows, the wins and losses, the productivity and procrastination detours (and girl, how that last one resonates here) - you are on your way. Your dream is closer than it was on Monday. More soon from a new room. Until then, happy weekend queen! I hope you enjoy some well earned rest. xKristine
7/20/20: "The only waterfalls I chase" ...and in my studio slippers no less. More soon from a new room. Until then, I'll just be here slowly crafting this special sweater. xKristine
7/22/20: "Work in progress." A day in the life: no makeup, at the machine, in the middle of a project (or 3), and Forensic Files in the background. There was a time when I yearned for the day - that "one day" - when production would expand beyond just myself. But after months of not being able to knit while my wrist healed, I finally see this season for the gift it is. This is the dream. It's busy and exhausting. There’s little stability. It’s a rollercoaster of emotions, but it's here. It's right now. And because of your support and orders, I'm able to live it.
Thank you so much for being on the journey with me. More soon from a new room. Until then, cheers to not letting the fantasy of "one day" stop you from appreciating the gifts of the present (even in a shit show year like 2020) Shout out your silver linings below. xKristine
7/27/20: "Your Monday motivation and my Monday tea." First the ☕️: Did you know when I started Declarative in 2014 that I hardly knew how to make clothes yet? Oy, true story. Bless the audacity and naivety of a 24 year old. I had a graphic design degree from art school, 1 machine knitting class under my belt and 0 industry experience (not even an internship). I was mainly self taught, getting rejected from every fashion job I applied to, and decided over brunch one random day to create the job for myself. That was my starting point almost 6 years ago, and in the time since, girrlllll... I've made SO MANY mistakes (many which still make me cringe). I’ve made SO MANY collections that don't reflect who I am as a knitter anymore. But step by step (and misstep), I’ve been figuring it out and finding my way. And if I could do it - if I could start a knitwear brand before I even really knew how to make clothes yet, you can do anything. Wake up and dream my queen. Step by step, you can get to wherever you're looking to go. So go for it! 👏🏼👏🏼👏🏼 Let today be your one random day to begin. More soon from a new room. Until then, cheers to starting the dreams we've been dreaming of. You can do it! xKristine
7/29/20: "A different kind of bts" 👵🏻🌿 ...Grandma is lounging in the garden with a friendly reminder that we‘re human, not machines. That means we need rest. It means mistakes and missteps. It means not being perfectly productive all of the time. It means not being perfect at all. And guess what? That’s okay. You don't need to constantly be doing something. You don't need to "keep up" with anyone. Some days, you'll be in the zone and get shit done. Some days, you'll spin your wheels and feel like nothing was accomplished. And other days, the tougher ones, you'll need to pull over to just get through. It's all okay. You are human. It's okay to be human. In fact, it’s incredible.
Sitting out here is now a regular part of my routine. For the first time in my adult life, breaks are a mandatory part of my work day, and a tendon injury in my hand was my rude awakening. The way I had been going was not sustainable. So from a grandma in a garden, let my injury (and very slow recovery) be your reminder to rest and take some of the pressure off yourself. This is a marathon, not a sprint boo, and you‘re doing great! You are on your way, and taking care of yourself will get you there! More soon from a new room, xKristine
7/30/20: "So much mood. 🤪” Currently in THAT stage of the creative process where you've finally figured out how you're going to execute a project, but now you're not sure if it's any good / worth doing after all. The struggle is realllll over here today. Anyone else been there? / How do you deal? Also, I wish I could say I planned this "look" to perfectly capture these feelings, but alas... the machine comb literally got stuck in my hair as I was cleaning up.
More soon from a new room. Until then, here's to making work outside your comfort zone, feeling the self doubt, but pushing forward anyway. All projects, even the ones that fall flat, are stepping stones to better work in the future. So keep 👏🏼 going 👏🏼 queen! 👏🏼 xKristine
8/3/20: "Flip 👏🏼 the 👏🏼 script 👏🏼 honey!" You're not too tall for that top. That top is too short for you. Something I've really internalized since I started making womenswear: Clothes fall short. Designs and designers fall short. You do not. Your body is right. ❤️ There is SO much nuance to the body, and standard sizing just doesn't cut it. Considering height, bust, waist, torso length, shoulder width and general tone - It makes sense how a garment designed for one body won't lay the same or even necessarily flatter another's, even if we are "the same size." 🎉 And since Declarative knits are already made-to-order just for you, we're bringing your measurements into the conversation! When you place your order, you can also include your height and any other sizing info you want me to take into account when knitting your piece. 🤩 Do you have a short torso? Girlll, just lmk and I'll knit your piece a little shorter. Are you a 6'2" goddess? Shout that out, and I'll lengthen yours. It's not completely custom, but a major step in that direction without the added cost. It also ensures your Declarative piece lands just right. ✨ win/win/win! Clothes and designers are here to serve you, not the other way around. Never forget it or let Fashion (yah with that capital F 🙄) make you feel otherwise. You’re body is right. ❤️ More soon, from a new room. xKristine
8/4/20: "Process, but make it fashion." Or at least trying to. 😆 The panels are knit and almost all seamed together. I'm in the final stages of this 2020 Passion Project, and girrllll... I'm so excited (and nervous 😄) to share what I've been working on these past few weeks! To show you what your thoughtful responses and experiences inspired. ✨ T-1 week! 🎉 (Not totally sure what that equals in “quarantine time” but even still, it’s not much longer now!) More soon from a new room. Until then, cheers to you - my forever muse. ❤️ xKristine
8/10/20: "5pm on a Monday." Here for this sunny day and this bra-optional summer. Although this season doesn't look like expected and I'm missing the big get-togethers of summers past, I'm savoring the silver linings wherever they appear. And I'm feeling one now. I'm feeling one here. More soon from a new room. Until then, cheers to warm sun, breezy lace and never wearing a bra again. Who’s with me?? xKristine
8/12/20: "That's a wrap!" Idk if you can tell bc it's very subtle here, but girrllll I'm so relieved and exhausted and excited after today's reshoot! (And I'm making a 🦆 face? Idk. Leaning in 😆) In an ironic twist after talking about self doubt, I found myself deep in that emotion yesterday while trying to do this shoot the first time around - wondering if I was doing this project a disservice because of my limited photography and modeling skills. However I thought about the poll I ran in stories, which asked if you'd ever wondered if "you're good enough/ smart enough/ pretty enough." It was prob my most answered poll ever and all but 2 said they had, which it made me realize something.
It's not about never feeling self doubt (after all, it's a normal emotion.) Rather, it's about not letting those thoughts stop you from showing up as the freaking star you are. It's about feeling those feelings, reminding yourself that you are THE prize and pushing forward. Every day is a new day is begin again, and that's what happened here. I can't wait to finally bring this passion project together and show it to you at last. More very very soon. Until then, here's to feeling all of the feelings, but showing up anyway. (And also to making a face whenever the mood feels right.) xKristine
8/18/20: Like a proud mama hen, introducing “Year 2020: Yours and Mine” - a passion project inspired by your responses. ✨ In a year of quarantine life and social distancing, we’re all doing our best to adapt to the new normal. And when asked in the 2020 survey, “What do you need right now and aren’t communicating,” the top answers were: 1. Human interaction 2. Alone time Two sides of the same coin. Mind blown. 🤯 I must confess while in quarantine, I unknowingly became confined to my own narrative. However, this opened my eyes back up. One person's isolation is someone else’s solitude - a dichotomy I leaned allllll the way into for this series. If anything, this series is a record of an experience we collectively shared, but hopefully you will get something deeper from it too. ❤️ Lmk what you think. xKristine
this series NEVER HAD A FORMAL ENDING.
I started this self portrait series as a way to keep showing up creatively in a season where I had no motivation to do so. And without any intention, this project just ended itself with the launch of the passion project, “Year 2020: Yours and Mine.” Looking at it now, it’s a fitting bookend to a strange spring and summer in quarantine. I’d spent majority of summer working on that project, and after its launch, a switch had flipped. I’d finished processing this pivot into the new normal that we’re still living today: with social distance, masks and limited outings. Finally, I was ready to carry on with my work in this new world. And I’m forever grateful for this series. Not only did it give me an outlet to channel my feelings, but it also provided me a manageable way to show up for Declarative when I thought I had no fuel to do so.
xKristine, 11/1/2020