Kit Keenan
Kit Keenan, who lives in New York City, born and raised there, has been compared to the infamous “Blair Waldorf but certainly resonates more with Martha Stewart.” Having famous fashion designer Cynthia Rowley as a mother, and appearing on season 25 of The Bachelor, one could say, she's no stranger to the spotlight. Keenan is a multi-talented podcast host, fashion designer, and home chef, She is passionate about the fashion industry and has garnered quite a following sharing her irresistible recipes on her social media series, “What’s Kit Cooking?”
Single-breasted technical jersey Turlington jacket
Technical jersey leggings with branded elastic
Stretch poplin shirt
KIM DOLCE&GABBANA Silk tie
Stretch tulle ankle boots
All by Dolce & Gabbana
What made you want to share your cooking recipes online?
I have always loved experimenting with new recipes and bringing friends and family together through food. My goal is to make cooking fun and approachable for my young audience.
You had no formal experience in culinary prior to this. Was it scary to make this transition and start your own show?
Cooking was a love language in my family growing up. My mom is an amazing cook and she passed down recipes from her mom, grandma, and great grandma. What these women lack in professional training, they make up for in flavor and an authenticity that cannot be taught in culinary school. There’s always more to learn when it comes to technical skill in the kitchen and I am not against the idea of going to culinary school or working in a professional kitchen in the future, but I don’t think it’s a requirement for the type of content I share in my “What’s Kit Cooking” series. I hope my recipes can be recreated and enjoyed by everyone regardless of culinary expertise.
Left:
Suit by SRVC Blazer and SRVC Pant
Shoes by MAGNANNI
MeMe London “Hallie Earrings” - Hallie Earrings - Gold – MeMe London 18k Gold Plated
Right:
Harriet Jumpsuit in black by IRO
MeMe London “Hallie Earrings” - Hallie Earrings - Gold – MeMe London 18k Gold Plated
Bow Tie by Miranda Kurtishi
What is one of your most popular dishes that you've made on your show?
One of my most recreated recipes is my chicken piccata pasta. Chicken and veal piccata were such simple, staple, dishes in my house growing up. My version takes all the delicious flavors from a classic chicken piccata like lemon, butter, and capers and incorporates them into a pasta dish that’s ready in less than 30 minutes. It makes a perfect weeknight meal.
If you could make one dish forever, what would it be?
Probably my comforting gnocchi soup. It’s packed with veggies, shredded chicken for added protein, and tastes so decadent and delicious. I swear it makes me want to eat soup all year around. It totally tastes like you spent hours in the kitchen when in reality it comes together in about 20 minutes.
Left:
Harriet Jumpsuit in black by IRO
MeMe London “Hallie Earrings” - Hallie Earrings - Gold – MeMe London 18k Gold Plated
Bow Tie by Miranda Kurtishi
Shoes by MAGNANNI
Right:
Single-breasted technical jersey Turlington jacket
Technical jersey leggings with branded elastic
Stretch poplin shirt
KIM DOLCE&GABBANA Silk tie
Stretch tulle ankle boots
All by Dolce & Gabbana
Your mother is one of the most well-known names in fashion. Has it been a challenge for you to make a name for yourself ?
My mom's success in her career has allowed me to grow into the businesswoman I am today. Of course, I have cultivated my own community and my career path may take a different form than hers has, but it's impossible to know where I would be if I had not grown up with the privileges her career success has afforded me. In other words, I have been able to establish a name for myself and a brand of my own as a consequence of, rather than in spite, of my mom's achievements.
Your social media seems geared towards your culinary endeavor and fashion. Do you see yourself working in the fashion industry in some capacity down the road?
I love styling and appreciate the work of fashion designers and houses so much. I will never say never in terms of working in fashion later in my career but right now the food and beverage space is my focus.
Left:
Suit by SRVC Blazer and SRVC Pant
Shoes by MAGNANNI
MeMe London “Hallie Earrings” - Hallie Earrings - Gold – MeMe London 18k Gold Plated
Right:
Miller Dickey Jacket by Veronica Beard
Renzo Pant by Veronica Beard
Pleated Silk Top by RUBIN&CHAPELLE
Shoes Brista by Marc Fisher LTD
Celeste Starre “Sun Goddess Ring” - Sun Goddess Ring – Celeste Starre 18k Gold Plated
MeMe London “Hallie Earrings” - Hallie Earrings - Gold – MeMe London 18k Gold Plated
What's one thing you learned about yourself from your time on the bachelor?
I learned about the importance of vulnerability and open-mindedness early on in dating. This is something I’m still working on but I understand the value in letting my walls down in order to build trust in a relationship.
Your Instagram gives us a snapshot on your style. How would you describe your style?
Blair Waldorf if she grew up downtown.
Who are your biggest fashion inspirations?
Jackie Onassis, Brigette Bardot, Audrey Hepburn.
What's the best lesson about fashion you've received from your mom?
Trends come and go but your personal style is forever. Think of it as self-expression. Further, always pack a sewing kit and safety pins.
Is there a possibility for a cookbook in the future?
It’s absolutely a long-term dream of mine.
CREW CREDITS:
PhotoBook Editor-In-Chief: Alison Hernon
PhotoBook Creative Director + Photographer + Producer: Mike Ruiz + @mikeruiz.one
Talent: Kit Keenan
Fashion Stylist: Alison Hernon
Hair: Luis Guillermo for Oribe
Makeup: Deney Adam at Blonde + Co
Assistant Fashion Stylist: Sienna Ropert
Fashion Stylist Interns: Angie Hines
Tearsheets by Daniel López, Art Director, PhotoBook Magazine
Interview by Lily Nawfor Contributor, PhotoBook Magazine
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