Why I'm Proud to be a fashion blogger!

Last week IFB posted a great article titled, What makes you proud to be a fashion blogger?  and it got me thinking..... 

The article by contributor Jess Estrada, starts out with a convo she had with a "fashion industry star" that turned unexpectedly, making her think a lot harder about the term "blogger" vs writer or journalist.... “It’s okay to call you a blogger, right? Because sometimes I've met bloggers who get offended if we don’t call them ‘writers’ or ‘journalists."

When I get called a blogger, writer, journalist - whatever it may be, it makes me proud to know I'm being recognized for my writing. If I'm recognized for my writing, it means my voice is being heard. 

When I think of the term blogger, I put in the same category as writer or journalist. Some may disagree with the comparison, because as a journalism alumni, we were taught to write following journalism ethics BUT from there I think it's the individual's decision on where to take their writing.

Getting a degree in communication, I did "all of the above." I created Tickle Me Chic in college so I could strengthen my skills and get my writing out there more. I also created the fashion column at my college newspaper, working in WordPress. From there I wrote everything from newsworthy pieces to personal style posts. I even did video pieces. Once I graduated, I created a blog for a wedding planner whom I've written for, for over 2 & 1/2 years. I was also the Conscious Fashion Editor for Modern Hippie Mag for a year and half, using WordPress to create, edit and manage content as. Now as a Brand Marketing Manager, I'm constantly blogging, creating content, and being the voice behind the brand. So when I look back at my experience with writing, blogging has had a huge, positive impact on my life. 

While in college, I even wrote a guest post for IFB titled,  

Should Bloggers Adopt a Code of Ethics? In the post, I describe bloggers as citizen journalists, because, that's what they really are. Bloggers can post directly, in real time while journalists usually have to research, interview, photograph etc. I believe bloggers are a one stop shop! Bloggers have created a new approach to writing, allowing the tone to be more personal.

photo from Independent Fashion Blogger post I wrote

What makes me most proud to be a fashion blogger is you create your own destiny. YOU are your own boss, you choose the content to write about and you edit the material - the freedom is amazing! I love focusing on the "controversial" topics in the fashion industry.... it gives me a voice to get those "sticky" topics out there more, like the portrayal of plus-size women or the photo-manipulation epidemic. 

Personally, I think if more people focus on breaking the misconception of these "taboos," maybe the fashion industry will hear us and start changing the way some do business. I honestly think that it's happening as we speak.... the more bloggers who focus on the tough fashion topics, the more changes we will see. 

I think the biggest difference from blogging to writing is you have an OPINION! When writing news, you're supposed to hide opinion and stay "unbiased" but that's something I love about blogging.... You're able to speak your mind and share your voice! That's why I love being part of Independent Fashion Bloggers..... You have a huge community where you can connect, share, ask questions, get opinions and interact with other bloggers.

Writing is what I love to do. That's why I pursued a communication degree and created Tickle Me Chic. Writing is an outlet for me... when I'm sad, frustrated, happy, excited, I turn to blogging. Even if I don't publish the piece, blogging is my release. Whether it's a controversial piece or a Bloggers Do It Better piece, I'm very proud to be a fashion blogger!

Links à la Mode: “But if fashion were easy, wouldn’t everybody look great?” ~Tim Gunn

"But if fashion were easy, wouldn't everybody look great?" ~Tim Gunn

I usually open with a title for Links à la Mode.. but this week, it's a quote found in one of our links. Tim Gunn did say it best, if fashion were EASY, everyone would look great! But alas it's not. It's tricky, specific, fickle, and highly personal. We all spend our entire lives getting dressed, but how many truly have style? This week we have a mix of the things you need to find your own personal way to fashion. So grab your cuppa and read these links!

Links à la Mode: The IFB Weekly Roundup

• A la Modest: Chelsea Boots: From Victorians to Mods to You
• Al-Balsam Life: Tim Gunn's 60th Birthday: His Memorable Quotes
• Arash Mazinani: Are you searching for a style magic pill?
• Beauty and Sass: marc the many moments
• Burgundy Whispers: Best Fictional Boyfriends
• Catching Flight: eBay Finds 6 eBay Shopping Tips
• Dresss:Code: Wearable Avantgarde: Salvatore Ferragamo F/W 13/14
• Fashion is Evolution: 3.How to DIY tie-dyed distressed cutoffs
• Healthy Fashionista: Healthyfashionista's Guide To Naturally Perfect Skin
• Inexpensive Chic: Pantone's Fall Colors '13
• Inspirations & Celebrations: The Best White Jeans For Your Body Type - Style Guide
• Little J Style: Do's and Don'ts for Clear Skin!
• My Style Vita: Accounting 101 for Bloggers
• Rose & Pine: Do You Have The Time?
• Stilettos & Tequila: How To Haggle Like A Pro In 11 Easy Steps
• Style Bizzare: How to Find Your Personal Crystal
• Style for the Seasons: 10 Essential Items for an Overnight Work Trip
• Style Vanity: Mixing Prints Guide For Men
• Tickle Me Chic: Who's to blame?
• Wild Beauty: Wild Beauty Places: Bite Beauty Lip Lab

  SPONSOR: Shopbop Men's Morning Warrior, RVN, d.Ra, Velvet, Ohne Titel, Isa Tapia, EastDane, Notte, Casadei, Clo Intimo, & Paris House Wallets

LINKS À LA MODE: THE IFB WEEKLY ROUND UP

Edited by: Taylor Davies

Despite the new look and slight changes to our forums on the new IFB site, there was no shortage of selections for this week’s Links a la Mode round up! From easy summer style to bridal trends and even some chatter over the latest Olympic drama with Ralph Lauren as well as teens and photoshopping in magazines, we had a lot to cover! Check out this week’s links and if yours has been chosen, be sure to check back later today for the code so you can post the links on your blog. Happy clicking!

LINKS À LA MODE: THE IFB WEEKLY ROUND UP: JULY 19TH

• A Brit Greek: Leather – 50 Shades for Maximum Impact
• April & Black: We Love Love Love Manish Arora
• Banjo Eyes: The Long and Short of It
• Can You Come Home: What Should I Wear To Work With The Bougainvilla Flower Trend?
• Dress Code: High Fashion: Altelier Swarovski Diana Vreeland Legacy Collection
• Elle Yeah: Haute Couture Week Highlights
• Emma Louque: Richard Nicoll for Topshop Bridal Love
• Fashionopolis: Fashion Blogging 101
• Fashion is Evolution: DIY Ombre Rhinestone Necklace
• Fresh Squeezed: Ralph Lauren’s Olympic-size Controversy
• Girl Loves Color: Walking on Sunshine (Color Spotlight: Yellow)
• Les Finer Things: Crazy Yin Love
• Moments With Meera: Prints, Prints, Prints!
• Oranges & Apples: Some Thought on Clothing Challenges
• Soychild: In Defense of Outdated Trends
• Tickle Me Chic: Real Girls Making A Real Difference
• The New Lady Times: Bride, Borrow or Steal
• The Curvy Elle: Fashion Trends Adapted for Plus-Size
• The Penny Rose: Moonrise Kingdom
• Zsasa and Everything Else: The OMG Necklace

Animal Instincts: Meow

So I kind of have a secret obsession with leopard print. When I found out the new Bloggers Do It Better challenge was titled "Animal Instincts"I literally eeeeeee'ed with excitement. 

With the animal prints being so popular this fall, I have made a few purchases that make me oh so happy. A few months ago, while writing my trend post, The Cat's Meow, I found the "leopard on me" top from ModCloth, and I HAD to have it. After patiently waiting for it to become available again, I snatched it up at the end of September. September 27th, the day that little package arrived on my doorstep, was one happy day for me! The next morning I woke up to a new BDIB email announcing the new assignment and I was SO excited to participate! It was meant to be :) 

So without further adieu, meet the animal in me. 

Two days after the new BDIB I found this precious little skirt with leopard bows and wallah! I had my outfit. While it's a little crazy for me, there is just something about this outfit that makes me feel good! It's bringing out my inner feistiness that I normally don't show!

Needless to say, I really do love leopard print. I have a few pieces that just spice up an outfit. 

And I just had to include my little precious bug, Tika because like mother like daughter, she loves leopard too ♥

Arm candy: BDIB

I wasn't going to participate in this bloggers do it better but after seeing all the great posts, I was inspired. 

This BDIB, Arm Party, was really hard for me. I have my two normal cuffs that I love to wear, one silver and one antique gold, and that's about it. I wear necklaces and earrings to accessorize as well so I don't have a lot of bracelets. 

It's funny that this was the BDIB because I have been looking for a nice watch to wear because I like the look but I just haven't found that perfect watch yet. This post has definitely inspired me to keep looking until I find the right one :) 

Here is my arm candy. Enjoy!! xo

Watch - Fossil

Pearls - Willow Boutique

Charm Bracelet - one of my best friends

Necklace - Express

I love the BDIB concept because it makes you step out of the box sometimes. I liked my arm candy so much that I even wore it to work. So thanks to Kristina for creating BDIB! It's a great community to be a part of ♥

BDIB: Maxed out on style

When Kirstina, of PSS announced the fifth bloggers do it better assignment I was so excited! It is a piece you can find in almost any store right now and so versatile. It is also right up my alley when it comes to personal style. 

Here is my take on the BDIB assignment #5, THE MAXI. 

I am all about maxi skirts and dresses, in fact, I used a maxi dress for another BDIB assignment.  They just exude a boho vibe but still look chic and I like to spice them up with accessories and belts. 

Once I read the challenge the thought of making it a "high-waisted" maxi skirt immediately entered my mind and I was on a mission to find the perfect one. 

Working full-time at Express, I don't get a lot of free time. With my vacation time starting Friday I was afraid I wouldn't be able to participate in this BDIB because I was scheduled to close all week, so it would be too late for pictures BUT when someone needed to switch shifts, I jumped on the chance becuase I really wanted to do this challenge. 

On Monday, I worked 9-6 and headed out with my wonderful boyfriend to take pictures. 

 From the shirt to the skirt, even the sandals, this whole outfit is Express so it was an easy to transition from work to "play". 

I had a ton of compliments on the outfit and even sold the maxi skirt because a customer liked the look!

I love this outfit because it is totally me. A little bit of boho mixed in with a chic, cool look. 

LOVED the maxi idea!

This last photo I kind of love. In the middle of the challenge I wanted to take a photo with my boyfriend because the background was beautiful. We set the self-timer and this is what came out. ♥

** A special thanks to him, for being my photographer xo

Remember, fashion is fun. It is uniquely you. 

Fashion Feature: Polka dot with me

As I continue my week long feature of my wonderfully fashionable friends I come to Carrie. She was my teacher my last semester of college but she was more than that. The young, vibrant fashionista always had a chic style walking into the classroom. We would swap style stories and comment on bad fashion. We ultimately became friends through it all and now, even though I graduated, we keep in touch, especially when it comes to fashion. 

Meet Carrie. 

As one of the editors in charge of the school newspaper, Carrie helped out a lot. Though I never met her until my last semester, she was one of the people that gave me the go ahead to start the fashion column for Flagler.  Once I was in her class, she gave me great positive feedback, letting me know that the way I wrote worked, and I would (hopefully) go far with my writing.   

After graduating, we would trade emails here and there about fashion and before I knew had started her blog, Under $50 Fashion. This is such a great resource on how to look cute at a low cost. A definite must visit blog. 

This outfit was a recent post on her blog where the total cost was only $45.95! And even better, the skirt was a DIY project. 

I will let Carrie tell you a little more about her low cost look...

❝Today’s outfit is definitely not one of my least expensive outfits, but if I had chosen different shoes, it might have been. Still, I’m pretty impressed with my ability to throw together something out of almost nothing. 

• Shirt - Lifted from my stepdad’s closet 15 years ago 

• Belt - Dollar General $3  

• Skirt - DIY from $17.96 worth of fabric 

• Necklace - Thrifted and Lifted - My mom upcycled this necklace from some costume jewelry and I “borrowed” it indefinitely 

• Shoes - Target $24.99❞ 


Total = $45.95

Awesome outfit for this frugal fashionista! Thanks Carrie, hope you guys enjoy and check out her blog, Under $50 Fashion.

Remember, fashion is fun. It is uniquely you. ♥

The new generation of street style....

By Jody Marich 

Street style sites used to be so popular and granted, some still are, but the new age way to show"street style" are personal style blogs like, Cupcakes and Cashmere and Magpie Girl, and of course sites like Chictopia, described as "People's Fashion Destination" and LOOKBOOK,  collective fashion consciousness. These online websites are known around the world, as sites to post outfits or like LOOKBOOK says, "THE INTERNET'S LARGEST SOURCE OF FASHION INSPIRATION FROM REAL PEOPLE AROUND THE WORLD."

Having been featured over 20 different times, Chictopia has become one of the fashion network hotspots. The trend setters can demonstrate their funky fashions, give tips, show inspiration and even be featured on other sites like Teen Vogue, for their unique style choices. 

Websites like The Sartorialist, Streetpeeper and Facehunter,  still post on a pretty regular basis, with The Sartorialist being most well-known, but if you Goolge, "street style websites" most haven't updated in awhile.

Many people are taking charge of their fashion, creating blogs about their personal style, like What I Wore. Jessica Quirk, creator, posts pictures almost daily displaying her style, along with tips and other style related write ups. Since becoming so popular, the blogger style star has been featured multiple times while Tumblr--her blogging platform-- is sending her along with about 20 other fashion bloggers to NYFW in February to write about their experiences. Quirk also has a book coming out later this year. Just goes to show you, if you love your style, take the leap and post your own looks. Be proud and confident about your look.

Fashion has always been a trending thing, but since the internet boom, more and more people can see into a different world of fashion, literally. Select a country and you can easily see the style from any of the websites I mentioned.

Before arriving in Berlin, DE, I was curious about the fashion so I researched some of these sites and found what type of style people are sporting. 

Here is an example from LOOKBOOK.:

This gives you plenty of choices from countries to brands. It's very easy to step into another country and see what fashion looks like. 

Here are a few more personal style sites that are great sources for fashion inspiration:

❤On the racks

❤Sidewalk Chic
❤Le Blog de Betty

❤Fashiontoast

❤Flashes of Style

Here is a list of the 99 most influential fashion blogs and beauty blogs, including The Coveted, What I Wore, The Sartorialist,  Independent Fashion Bloggers and many others that cater to showing what is trending, on themsleves or others. What's nice about IFB, is they cater to all kinds of fashion blogs, not just ones about personal/street style. While many members post pictures, they usually include more information that helps the reader, like where to buy or  how to wear a certain piece. 

Street style has always been fascinating, but when you can post your own photos displaying your individual style, I think it draws more readers in because you can build a rapport with your readers and explain how you got your look, unlike many street style websites.

What's your opinion? Do you think personal style websites have become the new street style era or do you think street style websites are the best way to see different styles around the world?

Remember, fashion is fun. It is uniquely you ♥

Walking down the graduation runway

By Jody Marich 

Today I was talking to one of my dear friends, Jill,  about having blogger's block. I told her I just couldn't get out of the funk I have been in. Maybe it's because I am graduating from college and have SO many other things on my mind. Whatever it is/ was she helped me come up with a brilliant idea for anyone who is graduating this December or anytime for that matter.

What to wear to graduation?

First and foremost, I think it depends on what type of school it is. If it is a public, state school or college, the dress code can be a little more lenient. 

Attending Flagler College, a private school, my dress code mandatory. If we don't follow the rules, we don't get to walk:

"DRESS FOR COMMENCEMENT: Men are to wear a dress shirt (preferable white) and tie, dark slacks, and dress shoes. Women are to wear a dress or dark dress slacks/skirt and blouse, and dress shoes. Students not adhering to this dress code, will not be allowed to participate in the Commencement Ceremony. Caps and Gowns must be ordered by the graduate with Jostens, Inc. at www.jostens.com or with a Jostens rep on campus on various advertised days . They will be delivered to the college for pickup during Graduation Clearance Week."- Flagler College website.

Remember, always to factor in:

❤weather- check the 10 day forecast to see if it's going to be cold, hot, or rainy, in case you have to make changes.

❤where the ceremony takes place- is it inside or outside? That should always be in the back of your mind when choosing what to wear.

❤what color your gown is - you don't want clothing to show through.

You want to look professional and polished, since you are officially moving into the "real world." Just remember the acronym: KISS - Keep it simple, sexy - I replaced stupid with sexy because this is your day to shine!

With all of this said, here are a few different choices on how to look perfect for you "graduation runway" debut. 

Vintage Graduate by littlemissjojo featuring stiletto heels shoes

I Like to Mauve It Dress
$45 - modcloth.com
Party dresses »

Chic Leatherette Stilettos
$16 - forever21.com
Stiletto heels shoes »

low wedge suede flat
$17 - gojane.com
Rounded toe shoes »

Jessica McClintock Flowers Clutch with Rose
$20 - endless.com
Jessica McClintock clutches »

Vintage Collection Gold Tone Rose Motif Locket Necklace
$32 - 1928.com
Vintage style jewelry »

Tan horseshoe buckle belt
5 GBP - dorothyperkins.com
Tan belt »

Fabulous Former Student by littlemissjojo featuring a peep toe heel

Miso One Shoulder Dress
30 GBP - republic.co.uk
One shoulder dress »

Peep Toe Bow Pump - Teen Clothing by Wet Seal
$30 - wetseal.com
Peep toe heel »

ASOS LUCKY Ballet Flats
$38 - asos.com
Asos shoes »

Faux Patent Wallet
$9.80 - canada.forever21.com
Wallets »

Boma Sterling Silver Diamond Shaped Marcasite Earrings
$48 - amazon.com
Diamond shaped earrings »

$2.99 - scrapbook.com

Polished Professional by littlemissjojo featuring a brown cardigan

Button-Up Basics Cardigan in Brown
$35 - modcloth.com
Brown cardigan »

Pink Pleat Chiffon Neck Top
28 GBP - missselfridge.com
Chiffon tops »

Gap Perfect trouser pants (brown pinstriped)
$60 - gap.com
Pinstripe pants »

Pierre Dumas Women's Cora-1 Pump
$22 - endless.com
Low heel shoes »

Dune Jerica Platform Shoe Boots | Littlewoods.com
1.50 GBP - littlewoods.com
Platform shoe boots »

ASOS Leather Push Lock Purse
$28 - asos.com
Leather bag »

ASOS Pack of Three Floral Embossed Metal Bangles
$17 - asos.com
Metal jewelry »

A Little Sip Necklace
$14 - modcloth.com
Heart jewelry »

With this outfit, you could put the shirt and sweater together or just pick one piece to wear.

Angelic Alumna by littlemissjojo featuring a shift dress

Womens Beige Burn Out Shift Dress - Dresses - desireclothing.co.uk
30 GBP - desireclothing.co.uk
Shift dress »

Monique-4 Nubuck Round Toe Bootie
$24 - urbanog.com
Rounded toe shoes »

ASOS LOTTIE Stud Ballerina
$41 - asos.com
Leather shoes »

Black Feather Clutch Bag
25 GBP - missselfridge.com
Black handbag »

Floral Hair Pins w/ Faux Pearl and Stone
$2.50 - canada.forever21.com
Floral brooch »

Facetted Faux Gem Necklace
$11 - canada.forever21.com
Gemstones jewelry »

72" Pearl Necklace
7.50 GBP - missselfridge.com
Pearl necklace »

For each outfit, I chose a pair of flats and heels. If you wear heels be careful. You want to have something comfortable, so you can walk in them, maybe even do a little practice walk before hand.

These are just some outfits that could work for the big walk but a few things to remember when shopping is:

❤Find something that is versatile- something you can be comfortable in for the ceremony and then take pictures in afterwards, even go out for a celebratory meal in. 

❤Choose a piece or outfit that won't look weird under your gown- you don't want a dress giving you a strange figure (even though the gown usually makes us look like we are wearing a potato sack!)

❤Keep jewelry to a minimum- one or two little pieces works but like I said, keep it simple, there's nothing like getting an earring caught in your tassel or bangles jingling. 

❤Keep your ceremony venue in mind-  you don't want crazy shoes that sink into the grass or uncomfortable fabrics bringing you down. 

❤Remember, this is your big day. It's a day to celebrate with family and friends. Don't wear something that will make you feel uncomfortable around these people. 

With graduation comes a whole new chapter in life. It's a time to celebrate your achievements with the ones you love. The biggest thing to remember is HAVE FUN! This is your day to shine. Walk with pride and be the little superstar that you are. 

Congrats to all that are graduating! I know I'm excited about it!

xo