Question of the month (from Noelle): Why do you blog? Has the reason changed over time, and if so, in what ways?
This is a great question. I've always wondered the same about all the blogs I follow. Here is my answer (I'll make it brief. Ok, it probably won't be as brief).
Back in early 2010 I discovered the world of blogging. By accident, I came across a personal style blog and have been slightly hooked ever since (I don't remember which blog was the first one I discovered but I know Noelle's, Andi's and Ella's blogs were all in the top 5 blogs I discovered that day. And I haven't stopped reading their blogs since. These three wonderful ladies are very inspirational, each one in their own way).
So, one day I decided to start my own blog. I figured this little blog of mine will be my personal fashion diary (I call this my little shallow hobby, a hobby that I truly enjoy and it's part of who I am). I wanted to document how my style changes over time, learn from my fashion mistakes (yes, I go back look at my pictures and ask myself if I got dressed in the dark that day).
I took most of my pictures in the bathroom at work, because it was convenient. Only few people didn't like it, because "it doesn't look professional". Well, it's not supposed to be! I've a 9-5 job and I'm not a professional blogger. I don't edit my pictures (I do change lighting sometimes if the pictures seem dark).
But, I stopped taking pictures in the work bathroom for a number of reasons but one of them was the fact that I didn't like seeing those pictures all over pinterest.
One thing I might not have completely thought through is that I will be sharing this with the rest of the world (little scary). I wanted to keep a certain amount of privacy, that's why so many of my pictures are missing my head haha. Part of me wishes I would have stayed "anonymous" to a certain degree...as I really do not like seeing my pictures all over (mainly Pinterest). Too late now!
The reason why I blog has not really changed. I was inspired by so many amazing women, I was hoping to do the same as I set out on this little journey.
I've "met" some wonderful ladies and love connecting with you all. I truly appreciate each and every one of my followers.
- Beautygirl24 - Noelle has enjoyed styling outfits using unexpected color combinations. Mint and hot pink are surprisingly versatile!
- Ella Pretty - Ella's "What's in my Bag" post features her new Marc Jacobs Single bag.
- Lilly's Style - Lilly is mixing bright colors.
- Pearls and Green Tea - Jiye's back from Paris - and she has a "mini" surprise.
- Saltwater Dreams - Andi's reviewing her recent beauty purchases, check out what makes the grade here.
- Schnelle Couture - Danielle is embracing her love for all things nautical.
- Sequins and Stilettos - Skylette is sporting leopard as a neutral here with bright yellow pants!
I'd love to hear from you all - so tell me, why do you blog?
xoxo
Lilly, our getting into blogging stories are almost identical, and in mine, yours was the personal style blog I randomly ran across and became hooked! I think blogging is a blast - I love writing, I love fashion, and the fashion/style blogging community is full of so many amazing women! Clothes may be the reason I ended up here, but the friends are definitely what make it extra worth it.
ReplyDeleteYour comment just put a smile on my face. Thank you, it means a lot to me :)
DeleteI love your honesty, Lilly! My blogging has shifted over the years - I've blogged for a few years but it wasn't until this past January I started really "fashion" or "style" blogging - my blogging, for me at least, is really about documenting my LIFE and what's going on in my life at the time and what i'm passionate about and what i love and what makes me happy / sad / etc. etc. I think you're such an inspiration and I'm glad you do what you do!! xoxoxo
ReplyDeleteThank you, Molly. Blogging is such a great way to document things we love and enjoy :)
DeleteI can't believe I was one of the top 5 you discovered when you started blogging! *feels special*
ReplyDeleteI'm so glad you blog - you have the most amazing eye for creating outfits - and mainly from easily accessible stores too! Love that your outfits look amazing yet are wearable.
The other day, a school friends posted one of your outfit pins on facebook - raving about your style - your face wasn't in it, but I recognized the outfit. Was so happy when I clicked through and saw it was from your blog - I felt like I knew a celeb LOL!
Here's the outfit she loved:
http://simplyme091909.blogspot.ca/2012/04/casual-friday.html
Although she pinned it from here (don't know if you're credited):
http://blog.globalstreetsnap.com/post/23831201123
You're so sweet Ella, thank you. Now I feel special ;)
DeleteThanks for the link, I've never heard about that website. Glad my head is missing haha
I blog because since I am a college student I continually am encouraged to try different things with the clothing that I already own. I also have met some really great people that have given me advice about going through college.
ReplyDeleteThat's is what is so wonderful about blogging - connecting with other women that share same interest. :)
DeleteThank you for commenting!
I don't blog...but I love to read 'em! You do a great job and are a great inspiration to my wardrobe!
ReplyDeleteThank you so much! I think I read other blogs more than I blog myself ;)
DeleteThank you for the sweet comment Lilly :) It's so great to see how far everyone has evolved with their blogs. From the bathroom pics to the gorgeous photos you post now! But I liked the bathroom pics by the way ;) I think everyone has to do what they love, and what is right for them. Your blog is definitely one of my favorites!
ReplyDeleteAw, thank you Noelle. You're so sweet and I really appreciate all your comments and your support. It really means a lot to me, especially since your blog was among the first ones I discovered.
DeleteI loved reading this, Lilly! I accidentally discovered and became hooked on style blogs in 2010 too! I started blogging because I love clothing and personal style and wanted to engage with other people who felt similarly. That, and I wanted to grow my own style. It's been soooo fun this past year!
ReplyDeleteAudrey
www.puttingmetogether.com
I think once someone discovers the fun world of blogging it's hard not to get hooked :)
DeleteIt is definitely fun documenting how our styles grow. I love your style, it's simple yet put together, stylish and practical all at the same time.
I don't blog either..but I have discovered your blog and I'm hooked. I look to you for fashion inspiration. I need it!! LOL!!.. I love your style and when I look in my closet every morning..I think hhhhmmmm how would Lily wear this top?? ha..ha.. anyways keep doing what your doing!!
ReplyDeleteAw, that totally made me smile :D Thank you so much, this means a lot to me!
DeleteI agree with Bonnie, you were the first fashion blog I found! And I'm kinda with you on the anonymity thing. I haven't posted my face on my blog, and I've debating if I want to or not.
ReplyDelete-AJ
fittraveleraj.blogspot.com
Happy to hear that :-)
DeleteI'm always curious who is behind other side of the screen, just our human curiosity. As long as it's not some old creeper, or any kind of creeper lol
Lilly, would you wear these sandals?
ReplyDeletehttp://www.zappos.com/madden-girl-twizzle-tan-paris
Opinions from others are also appreciated. Can't decide to buy or not :)
I would, they are cute :)
DeleteI have never posted on your blog before, have always just admired your clothes and styling from afar. Your blog is the first I ever discovered and have since found my way to Bloglovin and well, now I can hardly keep up with all the posts :). With that said, your posts are still my favorite and I really Iook forward to them. Your outfits are practical, affordable, and always contain a little something extra and unexpected. I hope you continue to document your daily outfits for years to come! Thank you for taking the time to do so and for putting yourself out there for us total strangers to get a sneak peak :)
ReplyDeleteMonica, thank you so much for commenting. I really appreciate you reading my blog, it means a lot to me :)
DeleteI'm glad you started blogging as I've taken a lot of inspiration from your outfits. I started reading blogs in 2010 too and became hooked. Thank you for being so candid in your post and sharing your outfits with us :-)
ReplyDeleteMaria
Thank you Maria! I enjoy your blog as well.
DeleteIt's so easy to get hooked, isn't it? But blogging is definitely fun :)
What is it that you don't like about having your pictures on Pinterest? That is how I found your blog, and I'm guessing that's true for a lot of other people too. And no snark is intended in the question, I know it can be hard to gauge tone on the internet. I'm genuinely curious (:
ReplyDeleteThat's true, most people found my blog via Pinterest.
DeleteI don't mind seeing my outfit pictures on Pinterest, the headless ones that is :)
It is mainly my full shot pictures. I think there are a number of reasons I don't like seeing my face all over the internet. Yes, I'm my own biggest critic and I can't take a good picture for the life of me (moi is not photogenic). It feels odd knowing that people I know might come across it (I'm sure many bloggers can relate to this). I guess I'm not looking to get famous :)
I've said it like 5 times, but I really did like the bathroom pictures! I like the current ones too, but something about the bathroom pictures made it feel real, you know? Not saying its not "real" now either. Gah, I'm not making sense, sorry :(
ReplyDeleteHaha, totally know what you mean :) I think the outfit details show better in the bathroom pictures.
DeleteJust like many of the other ladies previous comments, you were honestly my inspiration to start blogging! I love that you have realistic and affordable outfits.... I'm not in any position to wear Oscar de la Renta dresses with my Celine bag every day! ;) I'm in college so I'm always having to budget, but I love staying on top of the trends. You truly are such an inspiration to so many, Lilly, and I hope you know how many lives you've touched through blogging! :) I hope I can do the same someday :)
ReplyDeleteLexi, you sweet girl, thank you! I still remember your super sweet comment on Pinterest :)
DeleteIt definitely is possible to be fashionable and chic on a budget. You have amazing style for a person your age (wish I dresses that cute when I was same age). Not many girls your age dress so classy. It is possible to look hot without showing way too much skin. Keep it up girl!
I have found your blog on Pinterest, and really like your blog, it's very inspirational. And the pictures with head (haha) are much personal and lovable. :)
ReplyDeleteIf I ever start to blogging, it would be a mixture of fashion, make up, DIY and some "privat-bugs" (many-many things in my head, haha) :)
With many love from Hungary :)
Thank you so much! Sounds like you need to start blogging ;)
DeleteIt is fun.
Oh, I guess I should answer the question you asked (: I blog because the topics that I blog about (race and inequality,) are things that I think people are really interested in, but don't really have many safe spaces to think or talk about. I also blog for myself, because instead of just keeping my feelings or opinions inside, blogging gives me a place to put them out into the Universe. It can be a good stress relief. I've also "met" some cool people from doing it too.
ReplyDeleteThank you for sharing. Blogging is a great way to express our thoughts and our opinions, ones that we might not be able to express so freely just anywhere. Mainly because people are too sensitive these days on serious issues. I will be checking out your blog :)
DeleteLilly, I don't have a blog of my own *yet* but I adore yours. You have a style I can relate to and enjoy reading every it time. You are definitely on my list of top bloggers. Keep up the great work.
ReplyDeleteLilly-
ReplyDeleteI started blogging to vent about new motherhood. I didn't realize that blogs were of the crafty/fashion/style/DIY world until late 2010.
Now, it encompasses all my creative passions. I'm good friends with a fashion blogger {Lisa from Stilettos & DiaperBags}, and she encouraged me to start posting outfits once a week. So I do the WIWW each week. Given that I have two little boys at home, it gets me out of sweats. :)
Anyway, I read your blog for inspiration. Your style is realistic, classy, and affordable. Wish more magazines would take note! You should have a column. :)
I found you via Pinterest...it was this post: http://simplyme091909.blogspot.com/2011/11/weekend-wear-leggings.html
Wishing you the best!
Nicolette
I love the long days and soft light in the evenings of summer, I also love summer rain!
ReplyDelete