As September draws to a close, I’ve found myself flooded with a bittersweet nostalgia for the summer I’m leaving behind.
Despite Kingston’s unusually warm weather, pumpkin-flavoured drinks are popping up left and right, aggressively reminding me that fall is imminent. To keep the seasonal depression at bay, I’ve made a conscious decision to hold onto my summer favourites a little longer. I’m not going to deny myself a little more sunshine this fall.
Listen
If a balmy August day had a voice, it would sound like Rachel Chinouriri. The English singer-songwriter’s debut album, What A Devastating Turn of Events became the perfect backdrop to my morning commute this summer.
Her indie-pop blend, laced with smooth vocals and catchy melodies, is downright addictive. There’s a hint of 90s pop nostalgia in her sound, but Chinouriri adds a fresh twist that keeps it feeling new. “It Is What It Is” quickly became a personal favourite track. There’s no way I’m letting any “sad girl autumn” playlists push this album off my Spotify anytime soon.
Read
This summer, my weekends were often spent lounging with a glass of wine and a book nearby. Of all the novels I devoured, The Husbands by Holly Gramazio became an instant favourite, and my go-to book recommendation. Its surprising twists and laugh-out-loud moments makes it a standout on my bookshelf.
It captures everything I love about a weekend read—lighthearted, easy, and pure brain candy. It’s the kind of book that grabs you and refuses to let go, perfect for pretending summer’s warmth is lingering a little longer.
Watch
If you find yourself hunting Netflix for a new binge, I recommend hitting play on The Perfect Couple. The brand-new series is equal parts suspenseful mystery and juicy drama.
Set against the backdrop of a glamorous wedding party in a coastal town, things take a dark turn when a dead body is found just before the ceremony—picture The Summer I Turned Pretty meets Knives Out. It’s gripping, sexy, and boasts a star-studded cast. Skip your usual cozy fall re-watch and keep the heat alive with The Perfect Couple.
Wear
Akin to Apple Pay and vaccines, there’s truly no better invention than the skort. This summer, whether I was working at camp, biking with friends, or just lounging at home, you could always catch me in a short-skirt hybrid.
Seriously, they’re fantastic—giving you the freedom to move, squat, and even man-spread without sacrificing an ounce of style. This fall, while I’m still committed to the occasional leg shave, you can bet my skort collection will be in heavy rotation.
Visit
My greatest discovery of late has been Thai House Cuisine Kingston, tucked away on Sydenham St. and Queen St. This sunny little restaurant has quickly become a crowd favourite among my friends, and it’s easy to see why.
While back home this summer, I couldn’t stop dreaming about their mango salad, and in desperate times, even tried to recreate it—to no avail. Now that I’m back in Kingston, I’m excited to pay them many visits. Plus, they offer free delivery, making it even easier to enjoy their delicious menu. If you haven’t tried it yet, head downtown—you’re in for a treat.
Tags
books, Fashion, Music, News Flash, Recommendations, restaurant, TV
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