How did you get into the work you're doing now?

It’s kind of a funny story. As a teenager, I grew up during Tumblr’s prime, and it quickly became my favourite after-school ritual. I could spend hours scrolling and reblogging thousands of images, quotes, and GIFs. Between the ages of 13 and 18, I pretty much grew up on the internet.

I was fascinated by it all — I’d play around with the design of my blog, tweaking bits of code to make it truly my own. When it came time to choose what to study, I realised how much I loved doing this, so I started researching whether there was a career that combined all of those interests. And that’s how I decided what to pursue.

Fast forward to today — the internet has become such an essential part of our lives, and I still find it an endlessly fascinating space to work in. Who would’ve thought that little teenage me was onto something back then!

Have you always been drawn to design, or did it come to you in an unexpected way?

In a way, I think the first spark really did come from Tumblr. It was like my mind cracked open — I became obsessed with discovering new, beautiful visuals every day, and eventually, I started posting my own. Then, after moving to Amsterdam in 2016, a whole new world opened up to me. Surrounded by bookstores, archives, and museums, I was able to evolve my aesthetic in new directions, while still staying true to my personal style — one that leans towards minimalism, calmness, and a gentle touch.

Angelique wears Low-rise thong in Cherry

Your work is involved in creativity. Where/how do you find yourself returning to inspiration?

This really differs per project and what I’m working on at the moment. I’ve always loved exploring more offline mediums, which creates a fun balance when translating designs into the digital space. I have a few favourite (antique) bookshops here in Amsterdam that I visit regularly for offline inspiration and research.

Aside from visual research, I also like to listen to music that fits the project while working on early drafts and concepts. During my Bachelor’s, I took a Minor in Copywriting, and one of my teachers mentioned how the music playing in the background can completely change the kind of (improvised or fictional) story you write. I found that idea fascinating — and it still makes perfect sense to me that creative work thrives when multiple senses are engaged.

Working from home as a freelancer, how do you separate work from rest? Are there any routines or rituals that help you stay grounded?

I used to have a separate studio space aside from my home for a couple of years, which I loved, but now I am back to working from home which I love again as well! Working from home can be tricky but I do have a few ground rules for myself that keep me sane; I always take a walk in the morning before getting behind my screen, I try to keep lunches quick + healthy, and try to stick to “regular” working hours (9 to 5). Of course there are days when I drift off, but I guess that is one of the sweet parts of being a freelancer that I do really enjoy.

How do you navigate the solitude as a freelancer - do you enjoy it, or do you ever find it challenging?

When it comes to solitude in my work, it really varies from time to time. I love having control over my own timelines and projects, without needing to go back and forth with others too much. But at times, it can become a lot to juggle, and I’ve realised that many projects truly benefit from collaboration — the end result often turns out even better. It’s something I’m still navigating, and who knows — perhaps Gentle Studio won’t be a one-woman show for much longer :)









Angelique wears Sheer Mini Dress in Charcoal grey

How has living in Amsterdam shaped your perspective?

Oh wow, I feel like the move from Aruba to Amsterdam was a major life step in itself, and it’s had such a big impact on the person I am today. Even simply moving from such a small place to a city gives you so much — perspective, inspiration, the way you learn and carry yourself, and the people you meet. Amsterdam is such an open-minded city, and I really feel like I’ve found my place here!

When it comes to fashion, how would you describe your style?

This really depends on my mood, because I love switching up my style from day to day. Overall, though, comfort is a main pillar of my personal style. Lately, I’ve been leaning towards a look that’s comfortable, yet sexy and feminine. For example, I’ve been living in the Nonprivate Lounge Pants in White, which I love to pair with a fitted black tank, a good pair of sunglasses, and some silver jewellery before hopping on my bike to run errands. I guess it’s partly connected to commuting everywhere by bike here — my outfit shouldn’t be too complicated or take too long to get ready, but at the same time, I want to feel put together, strong, confident, and hot!

The Lounge Pants in White and the Sheer Mini Dress in Charcoal have been on repeat this summer — actually, almost nonstop. They’re perfect for what I described above: sheer (a little sexy) and light & airy (for comfort). Honestly, I especially love wearing the Low-Rise Thong in Cherry under the white pants — you catch just the slightest, cheekiest glimpse while I’m strolling around, and I kind of love that.

What's your morning routine look like? And What’s your go-to lazy breakfast?

I love going on a short morning walk within the first half hour of waking up. Getting some fresh air and a bit of sunshine really wakes me up in the best way. My favourite go-to lazy breakfast, especially on weekends, is Turkish Eggs. They look (and feel) more complicated than they really are, and they satisfy all my savoury cravings in the morning.



How do you unwind at home after work?

My roommate — who’s also my best friend — and I both really love to cook. It’s our shared love language, and we spend a lovely hour in the kitchen at the end of the workday, chopping vegetables and making a good meal while chatting and catching up on everything that happened that day. For me, it’s one of my favourite ways to unwind and gently ease into the evening at home.

How do you like to spend your time in summer? - places, activities?

Summer in Amsterdam is my favourite time of year — I usually don’t travel much in July and August, because that’s when the city truly feels like an oasis. There are a few spots I love to swim at, and I always try to stay out until late-summer-dinner time. To me, the perfect summer day looks like this: getting out the door around 1 pm, swimming with friends all (aaaalllllll) afternoon, reading, lying out in the sun, and then grabbing dinner together on a terrace. After a day like that, I go to sleep with the biggest smile on my face!

Angelique wears Straight Lounge Pants in White

What are some of your favourite local spots in Amsterdam?- cafés, galleries, bookstores, bars, or restaurants recess for a friend visiting?

Ah! These favourites change with the years and the seasons, so I’ll probably look back at this list next year and think, “heh!” For now, though, my go-to spots are definitely: Eetcafé De Reiger and Oranjerie for cute Dutch drinks and bar bites, Toscanini for date night, Tofani for ice cream, San Seriffe for books, Ocha for Thai food, Wing Kee for Cantonese, and Bar San Francisco for a nice cocktail.

What are your summer reads and watching lists atm?

I dip in and out of Women Who Run With the Wolves every once in a while (and I never read it chronologically), so it’s been on my summer reading pile. I also love taking an Apartamento magazine with me when I travel — I adore the format, and it’s such a sweet holiday read.

Playlist by Angelique Janssen

A selection of the playlists Angelique and her friends played on repeat this summer.

I am the changer by Cotton Jones

One of those changes is you by Anna Wise, Pink Siifu

Police Scanner by Chanel Beads

It's all soup now by King Krule

Al oeste by Juana Molina

Come and play in the milky night by Stereolab

Two thousand and seventeen by Four Tet

Psychic Sweeping by Patricia Wolf

Wrong II by H hunt

Almost fantasy by Fog Lake

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Find more of sounds curated by Angelique here.