Blogging has become a product of modern technology. Around the world, many people express themselves—interests, hobbies, art, music, style—through blogs. Blogging has evolved from private, handwritten diaries to public websites with a live audience. Blogs are a way for people to connect, feel inspired, learn or vent. You can do just about anything with a blog. Many people are choosing to start style blogs—a place to showcase one’s personal style, inspirations, secrets and lifestyle. And, they are becoming increasingly successful.
I first stumbled upon style blogs with the remarkable success of The Sartorialist. The blog started as a hobby; one man capturing street style in New York City and various other locations all over the world. It now has over a million views per month. Raw blogs, like The Sartorialist, have inspired a new, different kind of blog: individual bloggers documenting their everyday style. The secret behind these blogs is real people, amateur photography, and of course, great style. Besides inspirational posts, such as photos of models and celebrities, beauty secrets, and wish lists, readers are able to see what a blogger is wearing on any given day. Not only do readers get a taste of individual style at its best, but they also get a list of items worn by the author at the end of each post. The best part about these style blogs is the wallet-friendly clothing, shoes, and accessories. Readers soon realize that they can afford to look extraordinary on a daily basis.
What’s different about these style blogs in comparison to traditional print editorials? Besides spontaneous style and pure inspiration, a reader gets to know the person in the picture. In comparison, editorials usually depict nameless models who have been styled, wearing high-end pieces such as Yves Saint Laurent and Chanel. In the blog world, style bloggers are mixing and matching, opting for American Apparel and Forever 21 for basics and Alexander Wang, Chloe and vintage for indulgences. What’s more is the idea that most young people have to save their money to obtain designer handbags and shoes. It is all very relatable—different from a anonymous model on a page.
With many of the top style bloggers averaging 75 or more comments per post, success is certainly attainable. Some have been recognized by big publications such as Teen Vogue and interviewed by fellow bloggers and successful fashion websites. Some have capitalized on their own success by creating community style websites and online vintage clothing stores. As walking advertisements for young people, these bloggers are frequently sent clothing, shoes, and accessories by designers hoping their clothing will be featured in a post. One thing’s for sure—as mini celebrities, a style blog has given them many opportunities.
online: The Sartorialist