Lipstick: MAC Red | Ring: Top Shop
I really love this skirt. So much so that I have it in black and off white. Hey when I like something I have to get the most out of it. I am realizing that more and more if I really like something I should buy it because in New York City things sell out like hotcakes. A lot like these Zara shoes. I waited weeks for them to restock and when i finally got a 4am email alert..I hopped up so quick and bought these right away! lol. Ohh the things we do for shoes!
Check out a video post of this outfit on my YOUTUBE CHANNEL.
So to the business of blogging.
Here are a few questions I get on a regular basis:
How do I manage to work full time and blog?
It’s hard. I don’t have a job in fashion…I work in health. So I’m not running around in fabulous clothing during the week unless its after work. I hardly ever do “daily outfit post” because thats not realistic for me. I pick out 4-8 outfits and shoot them during 1 day a week and post them throughout the week. Now these outfits do get worn…just maybe not on that exact day. Check out this post video on how exactly I do an outfit post. I try to get all my post together during the weekends and post them throughout the week. I shop inbetween lol.
Do I shoot my own photos?
In the beginning I did but quickly realized it was too time consuming. I have a photographer. I’ve had her since my blog began. Her name is Samantha and she’s awesome. She don’t work for free..I pay her for her work. This is a hobby and I set money aside to be able to do this on a monthly basis because I love it and its important to me. I also have good friends who may step in from time to time and photograph for me. I use a Canon T2i with standard lens for photos and video.
How to get more followers?
I still consider myself a rookie blogger. I have been at it for a little over a year and a half. I must admit that getting a following is hard but you just have to let it happen naturally. I promote myself. I go to fashion industry events and network. I never leave the house without my blog business cards. Networking in person is awesome but you can also network online. Promote yourself on all social media that works for you. I like facebook, twitter, instagram and lookbook.nu. Those are the ones that work best for me. But you have to find whats right for you. Also post often.
How do I get brands to work with me?
Some are from networking and being a part of blogger groups/clubs. I would say about 30% is from networking. The other 70% are just brands that approach me. I’ve reached out to a few brands but not many. I think when brands see that you are consistent and have a unique voice and audience they want to work with you. I’ve been really lucky. I feel now that I’m at a point where I can start reaching out to brands. I also have a set template letter of what I will and wont do when a brand approaches me.
Do I feel there is racism in fashion blogging?
Yes. I’ve seen it. I know I have to work twice as hard and be more consistent and just more on point all the time to get further in the fashion blogger business. I see the same 5 girls in New York City get blogging job after job after job and honestly I’m not mad at it. It really just motivates me to be the best effing blogger I can be by being consistent and unique. There was a great article on this issue done by Folake Huntoon of Style Pantry for Chictopia. Claire Sulmers of Fashion Bomb Daily also recently spoke about the issue in a Style Video. As Claire mentioned in the video Vogue did a great piece on the subject of race in fashion as well; Is fashion racist? I’m also happy to announce that I was chosen to be a moderator/panelist for the first ever Style Bloggers of Color Conference next weekend so stay tuned for posts about all the happenings in ATL.
What blogs/bloggers do I go to for inspiration?
Just check the sidebar…I check them all daily. For a kick in the ass I check out Karla’s Closet. Looking at her blog makes me instantly step my game up 100% when I’m blogger slackin’. I check out Karen of Where did u get that simply because shes awesome and doing her thing. Peony Lim for style inspiration and ThisThatBeauty for all beauty related inspiration. I also frequent Tamu of
All the Pretty Birds for fashion inspiration.
How do I get into fashion week?
Really I have it down to a science now but i did a complete video series on this on my
Youtube Channel Fashion Steele NYC TV.
Video 1
Video 2
Video 3
It’s really NOT that hard. All you have to do is the WORK.
Number one tip I’d give to someone wanting to break into fashion/fashion blogging?
Have thick skin. You will be told “no” a lot. Don’t take things so personally. Be prepared for the sometimes brutal world of fashion. Blogging communities can be cliquish and sometimes down right childish. Just have thick skin…and always believe in yourself and remain positive.
I hope this post has helped all those who have emailed. With that being said…I just want to say THANK YOU to everyone who reads my blog and comments and emails and tweets and facebooks and just everything. It means a lot to me and is much appreciated. And if you are new…Welcome and I hope you’ll stay awhile.
If you have any questions/comments I’d love to hear what you have to say.
Leave a comment for me.
xx
Monroe
NEW INVENTORY AT SHOP MY CLOSET!
I love everything about this look! EVERYTHING!
Your words of wisdom are fantastic. Very good to know there are other bloggers who are as passionate as I am. The business cards are genius.
Seattle Beauty Fashion Blog
Your fashion business looks is fabulous! The skirt and embellished collar tips are so good!! Great tips for new bloggers too!
Hard work is definitely the key to having what you want.
Girlfriend you are awesome! I am soon to be 38 and you continue to inspire me. I’ve been in corporate for most of my life and I’m finally going for my dream of being a personal shopper and budget coach. I’m in the process of licensing my LLC and have biz cards on the way. I did start a FB profile so far, Frugal Ru Ru. Hoping we rub elbows some day. Keep doing what you do, it’s fantastic!!!! *muah*
I love this post! It’s just the kind of motivation I need, thank you 🙂
Very beautiful! Love it!
Just Like a True Star
you’re just awesome Monroe and you looking fabulous 😉
XOXO
http://www.renvieannemo.com
shopmoscloset.bigcartel.com
Excellent post girl! Thank you for sharing and motivating us all 🙂
You touched on some really great points. Such great advice.
-Shakiyla
Great DIY studding on your collar!
http://www.littleredbook-thatshaute.blogspot.com
You are amazin 🙂 Thanks for the encouragement.
I rarely say this about anyone who isn’t an Angela Davis or an Oprah (lol) but you are such an inspiration for bloggers of color. I have been following your blog from the beginning and it has grown so much. Your style is consistent and impeccable and the message you shared about racism in the industry was very inspiring to say the least. People act as if the “R” word doesn’t exist but it does. Even though it may not be as blatant, it may come in the form of denying a fabulous blogger such as yourself an opportunity because of the color of her skin. I stopped blogging a while ago because of this and leave my passion for the industry for the work place (which is retail management). Anyhow, keep representing all bloggers and bloggers of color in such a great way.
These are great tips! I just started blogging and am constantly discovering and being inspired by new blogs. I like the outfit shoots in 1 day, I thought of that once, glad to see that an established blogger actually does this. Love love love this blog!
http://www.cutratechichi.com
amazing post, miss youuu <3
XO Sahra
EffortlessCool
Very nice post and thanks for taking the time to put it together. It’s been really nice seeing your progression since you started the blog. You have really grown and I see you building your brand even more. I hope to stay around for the ride to the top ; )
u look gorgeous!! The draping on the skirt is beautiful!!
xx
I must say this is one of my favorite posts so far. You have a strong, genuine voice and I believe you will make a difference in the blogging community among other things. P.S. beautiful outfit. Classy chic.
ur the bpmb…point blank…period!!!
I love this post! You look amazing and your advice is perfect! You are going to do so well, you are an inspiration! I can’t wait to see you grow more! Your’re amazing!
xo
Tosh