So, you think you can blog? The good news is, getting started is the easiest part. It’s figuring out how to actually grow your blog and build up a loyal following that will ultimately separate the wannabes from the success stories. But don’t worry, we got you covered. With a market that’s as overcrowded and crazy competitive as fashion blogging (and blogging in general), simply having a passion for fashion won’t cut it in this crazy cutthroat market. You have to be willing to put in the time and really work for it, girl. To see what it takes, we turned to two top style bloggers for their professional advice on how to start a fashion blog.
Invest in Yourself
You have to spend money to make money and fashion blogging is no different. Fortunately, getting started doesn’t require you to empty out your savings account. You’ll want to invest in good lenses and camera equipment, though, says Los Angeles-based fashion and lifestyle blogger Alyssa Campanella of The A List. “One of the biggest ways you’ll be engaging with your readers is through your photos,” she explains. If the lighting is bad and the pictures are blurry, people aren’t going to take you seriously, much less take the time to read what you have to say. While paying for a custom-designed website upfront isn’t a must, you should purchase your own domain name (a minimal expense) and pick a clean layout that won’t confuse readers and is easy on the eyes.
Do Your Homework
Knowledge is power and keeping abreast of the latest trends and what’s happening in the world of style is a must for bloggers. Campanella recommends reading fashion magazines not only in your country, but abroad as well. “I look forward to British Vogue and Marie Claire U.K. monthly despite living in the U.S.,” she says. “Also start using Pinterest as a mood board for your style. Collecting pins that are inspirational to you and your sense of style are crucial.”
Treat It as a Business
Assuming that your end goal is to turn your love of style into your full-time job, you’ll have to treat the blog the same way you would any other business. As Campanella points out, blogging is incredibly fun, however, it’s also extremely hard work. “There’s a lot involved when running a blog because you’re essentially running a business and a brand of yourself,” she notes. “Like everything else, there are good days and bad days, but never, ever give up!”
Ann Kim of Andy Heart; image: Instagram
Be Patient and Passionate
Overnight success stories are few and far between. “Many people think starting a fashion blog is easy and that you’ll become a street style star overnight. It takes a ton of effort, though,” warns Campanella. “I’ve seen firsthand some people who started fashion blogs solely for the purpose to become ‘Instagram famous’ or to get a bunch of free clothes and shoes and none of them are still blogging because of that misconception.” The harder you work and the more you pour your heart into the blog, the more your readers and others will notice and admire you for your dedication.
Discover Your Voice
Don’t be a copycat! “Have your own voice and your own style,” advises celeb stylist and fashion blogger Ali Levine, host of Celebrity Styling with Ali Levine on OwnZones. “Give people new things to look at and get excited about and make sure they are things you’re stoked about, too. It’s so important to be authentic,” she says.
Collaborate, Collaborate, Collaborate
It’s one of the most effective ways to get some exposure and broaden your readership, granted you pick the right people. Levine suggests finding like-minded folks (think bloggers, designers, etc.) with similar interests to your brand to collaborate with. Pitch ideas that are mutually beneficial and someone’s bound to bite.
Step Up Your Social Media Game
Last but not least, you can’t have a fashion blog without an active social media presence. As Campanella confirms, a good majority of your readers will probably initiate from social media, whether it be Instagram, Twitter or Pinterest. “Even if you don’t have any scheduled blog posts, keep your followers interested by posting throwback style pics or another pic from one of your latest blog posts,” she advises.
