While in line for the Alice + Olivia fall presentation, I recognized Erika from Fashion Chalet. In my eyes, she’s a pretty big blogger and I was pretty nervous to introduce myself. Luckily, she’s as sweet as they come. We talked fashion, blogging platforms, our NYFW schedule, and the New York lifestyle (she lives in Raleigh, NC). I’ve been very happy to say that we’ve kept in touch and she was more than willing to provide an interview. Enjoy!
1. When and why did you start blogging?
I started in 2008. I had always shared my “outfits” via myspace, facebook, flickr, etc. Yet, I wanted a place of “my own” where I could not only share my outfits but also my love for fashion. Then I came across a few fashion blogs on blogger.com and learned how to create one and voila, I was off. It’s become much more of a job now, where before it was more of a hobby. I must say though, I thoroughly enjoy my job. Hard work and all, it’s something I’m passionate about and give 110% to, if not more.
2. You often mix a lot of high & low. What is the secret to pulling this off?
I really don’t know. To be honest, I wear things I feel most comfortable in. Other times, I pop into my walk-in and see a few items laying next to each other and decide to mix and match them. I pay the most attention to my shoes and bag. Sometimes, primarily working around those items. When it comes to splurging? I say yes to shoes and bags … also to classic pieces (a wrap dress, blazer, trousers, etc.) I save on easy favorites and basics: converse sneakers, soft tissue tees, and anything “trendy/of the moment” I may not want to fork $400 over for. So I save and play around with a new trend until I’m bored, thus not burning a hole in my wallet. I think a girl can wear expensive shoes and the rest of the outfit can be as plain as jeans and a t-shirt and still look elegant and classic. I love to mix high and low because of that effect.
3. What are your interests outside of fashion?
I love talking long walks with my ipod and puppy. It’s invigorating. Music also motivates me in many ways. It’s uplifting and can really cheer up your mood. I sometimes get ideas for outfits just from the mood a certain song may put me in. I also enjoy cooking and creating new recipes. My best friend and I also make time to meet up at least once a week. We head to Barnes&Nobles for overflowing cups of coffee and chats that last as long as the extended version of Titanic! We’re both avid readers and enjoy finding new novels to add to our already growing collections. It’s great fun.
4. What is your personal style mantra?
Be you, be comfortable. I don’t care what size a label reads or whether the brand is Forever 21 or Dolce and Gabbana. If the shoe fits, wear it. I look for style, cut, fit and design. If I like how I feel in the item, I’m much more inclined to make the purchase. One of my tricks? Before making any big purchases, I try to envision at least 3 different ways (and outfits) I can work the item into my already existing wardrobe. If I can, the purchase is a go!
You can read a little more about Erika here. She has a very fun, adventurous style and I always love to see what she’ll wear next!
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She’s very nice and has great style. I enjoyed reading about her passion for what she does. Great post Lindsay.
Thank you! She’s is a sweet person!