This week FashionZest interviewed Melissa, who is the creator of the inspirational fashion blog FashionTrendGuide, to hear more about her blog and her view of fashion.
Jenny: Lets start by hearing a little about yourself… who is Melissa?
Melissa: I would describe myself as a fashion-obsessed blogger from southern California with a penchant for cheap chic shopping, a background in trend forecasting and trendspotting, and a love for staying active.
Jenny: What led you to write about / be involved in the fashion industry?
Melissa: When I graduated from UCLA in my early twenties, I had a degree in Psychology but no idea what I really wanted to do as a career. After working in jobs that I wasn’t passionate about, I decided it was time for some introspection, and that led me to return to school for a degree in Fashion Merchandising. I’ve had a passion for shopping and style since the age of three, so it made perfect sense to study fashion so I could do what I love. I’m most interested in trend forecasting, which involves all of the things I enjoy – traveling, photography, shopping, reporting on trends, and determining what will be the next big thing.
Jenny: So what is Fashion Trend Guide all about?
Melissa: Well my blog is an expression of all things fashion-related that inspire me. So on my blog, I might include: store window photos, my own personal style, trends on the rise, book reviews, shopping reports, mini DIY projects, museum exhibitions, events and sales, or collages of things I want. I think it’s important to have a balance of interesting images and well-written content in order to attract and retain readers.
Jenny: How did Fashion Trend Guide start?
Melissa: I always wanted to have my own fashion website, but I didn’t have any web design skills. One day in early 2007, I used Blogger to create Fashion Trend Guide when I had some extra time on my hands. At the time, I was inspired by many of the street style blogs that I had recently discovered, and I originally intended to post Santa Barbara street style, but my blog’s direction changed away from that once I began updating it.
Jenny: What do you hope to achieve with Fashion Trend Guide?
Melissa: My aim is to inspire, educate, and hopefully, to entertain my readers. It’s also a great avenue for interacting with like-minded people and for sharing my passion.
Jenny: How would you describe your personal style?
Melissa: I don’t have a signature style, but I use several factors to guide me when I’m getting dressed. For instance, the weather, my mood, my activities, and recent inspirations help me decide what to wear. This season, I’m gravitating toward layered bangles, chunky wedge boots, cross body bags, prom skirts, faux leather, animal prints, Breton stripes, and body con dresses.
Jenny: Who or what has been your greatest fashion influence?
Melissa: I draw a lot of inspiration from the many fashion blogs and magazines that I read. I tend to gravitate towards Scandinavian street style blogs and British magazines when seeking ideas for new looks. I also browse dozens of websites such as: style-bazaar.com, lookbook.nu, refinery29.com, whowhatwear.com, topshop.com, missselfridge.com, and asos.com.
Jenny: Which is your favorite fashion designer at the moment, and why?
Melissa: I don’t have one favorite designer, however, three of my recent favorites include Richard Chai for his polished and sophisticated looks, Ashish Gupta for his bold colors and fun prints, and Isabel Marant for her understated, French-chic vibe.
Jenny: What current fashion trends do you like and dislike the most at the moment?
Melissa: I’m enamored with the big-shoulder silhouette this season, as it reminds me of growing up in the ’80s. Also, anything with sequins or beading is on my style radar right now – so perfect for the festive holiday season. As for trends that I dislike, UGG boots and graphic sweatpants would probably be my least favorite.
Jenny: What would be the one fashion tip you would give to a friend?
Melissa: Dress in pieces that make you feel comfortable, beautiful, and confident. Know what colors and shapes flatter you, and don’t be afraid to experiment and have fun!
Jenny: And finally… as the creator of Fashion Trend Guide, where do you see the site in 5 years time?
Melissa: I can’t tell exactly what the future will bring, but with the increasing popularity of fashion blogs, I hope that my site will grow and open up doors for future opportunities and collaborations.
