Friend Friday - Shutting down my blog?

Hello and welcome to another installment of Friend Friday! This has been such a great way for all of us bloggers to communicate on current issues in the blogosphere. Katy Rose, moderator of ModlyChic, sends us pertinent questions to what's going on in the fashion world each week. We all link up and answer them on Friday! If you are a blogger and are interested in joining, you can check it out here. 


I feel a little bit like Katy Rose read my mind this week for inspiration for a Friend Friday topic. THE STRESS OF BLOGGING! Check out what I have to say below and if and when I'll be shutting down my blog.


1. How many hours do you spend a week blogging? Has that number changed since you've become a blogger yourself?
Before I became a blogger myself, I hardly searched the blogosphere. It was maybe 2 hours a week. I knew what blogs were and were first introduced to them through ModlyChic and The Busy Budgeting Mama. So now that I have become a blogger myself, that number has exploded! Starting one's own blog is like opening Pandora's Box. Now I'm spending anywhere between 5 - 10 hours a week blogging.


2. There is always more you can do, write, read, comment on, etc...how do you limit your time spent on these tasks?
Well, actually, I don't think I do enough. I feel like I need to spend more time doing these things - getting my name out in the community, discovering more blogs, getting inspired...but I just don't have time. So, I guess that I am limited just by nature of having a limited amount of time.


3. Have you experienced blogger burn out yet? How have you dealt with that?
Well, I'm pretty exhausted right now. I can't imagine that it can get any worse. Oh gosh. Does it get worse? I imagine burnout is much like your first year of teacher burnout. I survived that somehow and am still picking up the pieces from that year. I usually have a tendency to push myself way too hard, get stressed out, and then kiel over. I am feeling like that with blogging at this point. It seems to be more of a task than a creative outlet and hobby. I want my blog to be successful and I feel like that takes a lot of time and effort that I just don't have with a 12 hour day job.


4. This time of year is always a lot busier. Will your blogging change as a result?
I think that my blogging may change a little within the next week or so as finals roll around and the last week of school commences. However, during the 2 week Christmas Break, I have a lot of plans to meet up with photographer friends for photo shoots and will have a lot of time to actually put into the blog. I'm really looking forward to it. 


5. Could you foresee a moment in which you are not blogging anymore? How will you identify if and when it is time to walk away?
I don't know. I think that I will walk away if the stress level stays the same & if the pressure to perform is still high and I'm not seeing any results in terms of growth. Let's be honest here, bloggers want to reach a lot of people. I want to reach a lot of people - however, if that doesn't happen and I am still stressed out about making sure I post this outfit and answer this FBFF, etc...then it's not worth it. I'm sticking to it now because I believe (and hope) my blog will grow. I guess we'll see.

Fashionably Yours,

Friend Friday Guest Post - INKBLOTPHOTOGRAPHY

Happy Black Friday, everyone. I hope you all got some great deals! Since I can't shop for myself during the 30 for 30 Remix Challenge, it was too tough to go to the stores and see all the good deals I couldn't have...

This week's Friend Friday is a Guest Blogger Post Exchange. Cate of inkblot*photography and I exchanged posts today. Check mine out HERE.

"The Art of Fashion"

As an aspiring fashion photographer, I look at a lot of pictures, but as a fashion blogger, I look at TONS of pictures.

There are hundreds of fashion blogs about personal style, but not as many about the art of fashion photography. So for a more marginal Fashionista like me, it's hard to find guidance online when you're more interested in the lighting of the photographs and the positions of the models.

Obviously, fashion is about the actual fashion, but for me, it's about the art. When I'm looking through editorials, the things that catch my eye are things like angles, colours and intensity. I post the shots that make me want to take a second look. The ones that grab my attention and force me to examine every aspect of the picture and really think about what makes it great. For me it isn't just about the clothes; it's about the way the clothing is presented in the photographs, and the true art that's created in the process.

Photo Credits: Julia Stegner by Alexi Lubomirski

In the months since I've transitioned my blog to posting more editorials, one of the things that I've learned is that the models are especially important in making a photograph work. There's a reason that there are 'models' and 'supermodels'. 

A good model can evoke an emotion in a photograph with a flick of her wrist or the angle of her eye line. It matters if a girl can move or not. Tyra always says "she's model the noun not model the verb" and truer words have never been said. There is a difference between a face that makes you take a second look and pay attention, and a girl that can evoke emotion and style with her entire body. In the end, it's those girls that make the jump to supermodel.

As of right now, the models at the top of my list are Karlie Kloss and Freja Beha Erichsen. Between the two of them, I've found some of my favourite fashion shots, and they've inspired my own aesthetic.

Photo Credits: Karlie Kloss by Tim Walker

But how is this even relevant if you are a personal style blogger? The thing is, the internet is a visual medium and pictures make all the difference. If you're on lookbook, then you probably know that the looks that get hyped the most often are the ones that have the most interesting photographs.

When you're taking style shots for your blog, take notice of your surroundings and lighting. "Use your angles" as Tyra would say (I watch a lot of Tyra) and try to make your shots interesting. People come back to style blogs not just because of that bloggers personal style, but because they like the visuals that blogger creates in their shots. The best blogs have great photography.

We all love fashion. We wouldn't be here if we didn't. But sometimes it's fun to explore the different aspects of the fashion industry that we weren't as invested in before. 

Track my love of editorials at http://inkblotphotography.blogspot.com, follow me on twitter or bloglovin' or join me on facebook.

flaunt hard,

Cate

Friend Friday - Criticism...constructive?

Hello and welcome to another installment of Friend Friday! This has been such a great way for all of us bloggers to communicate on current issues in the blogosphere. Katy Rose, moderator of ModlyChic, sends us pertinent questions to what's going on in the fashion world each week. We all link up and answer them on Friday! If you are a blogger and are interested in joining, you can check it out here.

This week we are talking about criticism, comments on the blog & how to be truthful & constructive. 

This quote made me laugh out loud.

"If nothing bad is ever said, nothing good will ever get done."

1. Do you allow comments on your blog? Why or why not?

Yes, I love comments on my blog. I blog because I want to interact with people communicate something to the point where it ignites a reaction from my readers. I love to know what they are thinking! And as all of you probably think, but may not be willing to say - the comment section is an ego booster and success meter. More comments means more readers.

2. Do you think people at times leave comments that are insincere or not well-thought out? What's the point?

I do think people do that. I think they do it because they just want to market themselves and comment on as many blogs as possible so that they can get a bounce back to theirs. I can tell it is insincere - I don't particularly like it, but hey - it's a page view. I definitely wouldn't do it. I want to leave comments that are actually affirming and have substance.

3. Would you ever leave a comment that could be considered negative?

No.  Remember "if don't have anything nice to say...don't say anything at all"? Especially on the internet. It is public and more people see it than the person it was intended for.

4. Most people claim to like constructive criticism. Do you really like it and how do you offer that kind of criticism to others?

I think those people are lying. I don't think that I particularly like it, either. People like words of affirmation and praise. I will take constructive criticism if it is offered to me and if I have to - but I don't wear a sign that says "Now taking constructive criticism!" 

I am a full time teacher and constructive criticism is my speciality. I have to offer it constantly on papers I grade & most especially during classroom discussions when students are answering questions. A lot of times they don't have the right answer and I have to affirm them, encourage them, and tell them they are incorrect. I'll say things like "Ohh, good guess, but not quite - does anyone have anything to add?" I've also noticed that the more I excitedly affirm those who have the right answer, the more hands go up - it's because my students want praise - not constructive criticism.

I think in terms of fashion, it can be looked at in the same way. I make sure to give compliments to people who truly look great in that outfit or a particular color, etc. When I'm fashion consulting, I make sure to pull items that are outstandingly flattering in shape, pattern, & color to dress a client in. Once they are convinced of how great they look, I can say things like, "See how this color brightens your complexion? Does the other color you were wearing do this same thing for you?"

5. Some bloggers don't allow comments in order to cut down on negativity. Do you think that is the way to go or are there other ways to deal with the negative vibes?

Well, I guess it is up to them. It is their blog & the point of a blog is freedom of personal expression. So, I guess if they want to turn them off, that's their decision. However, there is the option of approving all comments before they can be published!

Fashionably Yours,

Friend Friday - Fashion Do's & Don'ts

Hello and welcome to another installment of Friend Friday! This has been such a great way for all of us bloggers to communicate on current issues in the blogosphere. Katy Rose, moderator of ModlyChic, sends us pertinent questions to what's going on in the fashion world each week. We all link up and answer them on Friday! If you are a blogger and are interested in joining, you can check it out here.
This week we are talking about the Do's and Don'ts of Fashion.

1. What do you think are some of the top fashion don’ts? (Things you would never be caught dead in and cringe when other people wear them.) See exhibit A! Socks with sandals - any type of sandals and socks is a definite no-no. If your complaint is that your feet are cold, then put on some REGULAR SHOES! Christmas sweaters or sweaters with cats on them - worn in all sincerity and not at my annual Tacky Sweater Christmas Party.
Also, a BIG BIG BIG no-no for me (and I will offend many people when I say this) No pajama pants in public! I don't care if they are comfortable. I don't care if they have Sponge Bob Square Pants on them. I don't want to see what you night sweated in.

2. What previous fashion don’t do you now wear with pride? I...really...can't think of any. If it was previously a don't and I'm not wearing it, then clearly it is a DO.

3. Do you think there is a universal fashion do? YES. It's called fashion dignity. This means always looking your personal best. Oh, and pearl earrings. Any woman in any style can pull these off. 

4. What items lately, either recently in style or coming in now, do you think should never make it off the retail shelves? A jean dress. Unfortunately, they still make these for plus sized women and advertise them as "fashionable" for them. That's an injustice. Also, some of the over exaggerated 80's neon gear. 

5. In your opinion, is there any blogger, fashion icon, celebrity who some how manages to pull off some fashion don’ts and still look good? Yes, The Olsen Twins. I love their style. They can do the don'ts so well. 

Friend Friday :: Size is an Issue!

Hello and welcome to another installment of Friend Friday. This has been such a great way for all of us bloggers to communicate on current issues in the blogosphere. Katy Rose, moderator of ModlyChic, sends us pertinent questions each week. We all link up and answer them on Friday! If you are a blogger and are interested in joining, you can check it out here.

We are discussing the ever sensitive issue of size. Dress size, shirt size, hip size, etc. Any way you look at it, size is an issue. 

But does size really matter?

1. Should someone's size stop them from fashion blogging or having a voice in the community?  
Absolutely not! Does this even need an explanation? It must be broken down in terms of human dignity. Each person in the universe from the beginning of time has got it regardless of race, religion, ability, and yes, even size. In fact, what we need MORE of is women of all shapes and sizes to gain confidence in the fashion community and promote their beauty. 

2. In your opinion, can the term "curvy" and "plus-sized" be used interchangeably when it comes to fashion?
I don't know. Plus-sized seems to be a pejorative term, but I know women who would not be considered plus-sized, but are definitely curvy. What about Jennifer Lopez? or Scarlet Johansson? They are most definitely curvy. Can they be used interchangeably? I really don't know. Let's ask a woman who would be considered plus-sized and has been beat up on by the mainstream media what she wants to be called.

3.  Many people make the argument that catering to plus sized women would promote being overweight as "okay".  What do you think?  Should more designers be catering to plus size women?
Designing fashion for plus-sized women does not promote being overweight. I'm sorry, but everyone has to wear clothes. What are plus-sized women going to wear if stores don't carry their size and if designers refuse to make fashionable styles for them? Notice I said fashionable styles - not an oversized t-shirt in kitty cat pattern. Nakedness is not an option for anybody. The alternative of NOT designing for these sizes is something we should be WAY more concerned about - because that means denigrating women who don't fit a model's shape to be confined to their homes or subject to fashion that doesn't promote their true worth as a beautiful woman.

4.  Should the mainstream fashion industry be showcasing more plus size models? 
Yes. That's it. Just yes. 

5. For you personally, how do you view your size, the struggle with it through the years, your ideal size, etc...
I definitely have body image issues. I think everyone does - regardless of what size category one falls into. I've been my own version of what I consider to be plus-sized. But it's a disillusion. My weight has fluctuated throughout the years due to a number of different circumstances - usually due to serious health issues. My senior year of high school came with a devastating bout of Mono where I was bed ridden for 3 months and slept 20 out of 24 hours in the day. When I recovered, I lost 20 lbs in two weeks. I kept it off half way through my freshmen year of college. That was the smallest I've ever been. By the time I was a sophomore in college, I had put on 30 lbs! This was partly due to a semester in Europe where all I ate was bread and wiener schnitzel for 4 months. That was the heaviest I've ever been. Eventually, I lost about 15 lbs of that weight, but I wasn't satisfied.


I came to realize my issues with food when I was a senior in college. I overate out of boredom and the sheer fact that "I can eat whatever I want and no one can tell me different!" Healing came through a program of support called The Light Weigh. I lost about 8 lbs and gained control over my eating habits.


After graduate school, I started to gain weight again and was always sick. It was finally in February of 2010 after some serious health complications that I was diagnosed with Celiac's Disease and an intolerance to dairy. Since then, I've slimmed down a bit and my whole life has changed. My doctor literally saved my life. It wasn't too long before I would have taken a leave of absence from my job and landed in a hospital bed - but that's another story. 


No one, including myself, will ever overcome their body image issues unless they see themselves with the dignity and beauty they were created with at their inception even though the world says it is different. And, well, that's an every day struggle.

P.S. Have you seen this GIVEAWAY? Contest ends tonight! 

Thanks for joining me - 

I'm Back in Time for Friend Friday!

The internet has returned after a 9 day stint. That really puts a damper on a blogger! Oh yeah, and I was really distracted by the view from my new backyard...

It's no Jersey Shore, but it will do. 

Jealous?

Well, interestingly enough, that is the topic of today's Friend Friday discussion. 

1. How do you define jealousy?

          A desire for something that you feel you are inadequate in.
2. When do you find you experience a bit of blogger jealousy? 

          On a daily basis. I am jealous of their success, of their followers, of their prose, and of their recognition on a larger scale.
3. What types of blogs or which bloggers are you a little jealous of?

          I am jealous of the blogs that have hundreds of followers. Mostly fashion bloggers, since that is my field. I am jealous of the bloggers who have a better camera than I do and who look better in front of it than behind it. I am definitely jealous of The Busy Budgeting Mama! She's got it all...followers, a creative and clean website design, and she's a pretty great dresser.
4. From the time we're little we are taught that jealousy is a bad thing, but it can also inspire us to be better. Have you changed the way you do things, the content of your blog, etc... as a result of what someone else is doing?

          Yes, I definitely have. However, I wouldn't say that the changes have been out of jealousy. They've been more out of inspiration and a practical look at what makes their blogs tick. My blog design used to have a black background, but after visiting a lot of others' blogs, I saw that a lighter background was more attractive. I look at what makes their blogs easy to navigate and I try to imitate that.
5. What is the best way to overcome jealousy in the blogosphere and in life?

          You have to ask yourself why you are blogging. If you are blogging because you think that your life is more newsworthy than others and that you are the center of the internet universe, you are probably going to have a hard time getting over jealousy in the blogosphere and definitely in life. Purify your intentions. Blog because you want to be expressive or because you want to rid the world of fashion offenders and show men and women that their human dignity should be expressed in their wardrobe. Constantly evaluate and strive to improve. If you are jealous of someone's blog, ask yourself why. If it is because they have more followers, think of constructive and real ways to publicize your blog. You never know, maybe someone will end up being jealous of you. 

Friend Friday!

I am so excited to be participating in my first Friend Friday! Fellow blogger, Kate Hinderer, over at Modly Chic, geniously devises fashion relevant questions for fashion bloggers to answer and share their wisdom. 

This week, we are discussing vacation fashion. It is a perfect topic, since so many of us are either just getting back from vacation or packing to go on one. Whichever one you are, chime in on the comments and let me know YOUR answers to these questions.

1. Are you going anywhere this summer that will require a suitcase? Thankfully, yes! If you pack a suitcase, that inevitably means a trip to (hopefully) somewhere relaxing and fun. I just returned from a 2 1/2 week trip across half of the country. We had a somewhat rather complicated travel itinerary. This required me to be smart with my packing. We drove from Chicago to an overnight in South Bend, IN ::2.5 hrs:: - from South Bend, IN to an overnight in Steubenville, OH ::5.5 hrs:: - from Steubenville, OH to the Jersey Shore ::6 hrs:: AND back! I had to pack for a total of 4 one night stays and a week and a half in New Jersey. I made it easy. I packed one large suitcase for the bulk of the trip, but packed one small overnight bag with all the essentials. This way I did not have to lug my huge suitcase in and out of the car for just one night. (Unfortunately, my boyfriend wasn't as packing savvy as I was...)

2. What are your 'must-pack' items? In addition to what items the individual trip demands, I always pack one pair of dark jeans, a black and gray cardigan, and one pair of flats. Inevitably, I will end up going somewhere that blasts air conditioning or in the case of my recent trip, an early morning ocean sunrise. The jeans and cardigan are perfect for that. The cardigans also work to paired with shorts or a skirt for some extra warmth.

3. Do you have any travel packing advice? Definitely roll all of your clothes. Pack only one set of PJ's - you don't need a variety of sleepwear. Remember that you can wear jeans and shorts more than once without washing. Plan your outfits BEFORE you pack! This way you can see that you can wear one pair of shorts 3 different ways and cut down on the bulk.


4. What one item should every woman pack when going on a vacation? 
PEARL EARRINGS! Especially for a beach vacation. They are simple, elegant, and unobtrusive. I wore them every day on the beach and out to events at night. They finish every outfit and work with any style. I think of my dear friend, Lorelle W., whom I've never caught out of her pearl earrings - even at our early morning breakfast get togethers! Pearl earrings will keep you feeling beautiful and remembering your femininity even with sand between your toes!

5. When it comes to makeup how much of your collection do you pack? What do you take? What do you leave behind? All of my makeup is stored conveniently in an organized and transportable bag all of the time, so I just pick up the entire thing and throw it in my luggage. When it comes to how much makeup I wear every day - beachwear makeup is is nothing but sunscreen. However, I like to have all of my makeup with me in case of the occasional dinner out or barbeque.

::This site is AWESOME by the way - personalized makeup bags - so many styles and colors to choose from! Stephanie Johnson - Travel Accessory and Bags::

Let me know your comments and thoughts!

Stay tuned for a full blog post on my vacation to the Jersey Shore and the do's and don'ts of beachwear! You won't want to miss it!

G J A