Fundraising for cancer research + designer runway show = haute couture with a side of philanthropy!
That’s the Think Pink Fundraising event that I had the pleasure and privilege of attending last night at the Four Seasons. The 3rd annual fundraiser was held in honor of the Lynn Sage Foundation, a research-funding platform founded by sisters Laura and Halee Sage in search of breast cancer cure upon the passing of their mother Lynn.
Not only did the event prompt attendees to join forces in rendering a positive social service, it was also visually gratifying to watch Chicago bloggers walk the runway show dressed in Nicole Miller’s Fall/Winter collection!
The Vogue-gracing designer is best known for modern aesthetics imbued with bright prints and patterns. Her signature looks for this season? Black and white River Stone pattern. Metal beading over solid black mesh. Edgy. Modern. Chic.
So what would be the best way to showcase her design and support her philanthropic endeavors other than having Chicago’s finest bloggers walk the runway show! I was so thrilled to finally meet Vanessa Lambert, the brain and beauty behind What Would V Wear. Also it was my absolute honor to meet the host and stylist for the show – Janet Lee Mandell of Fashionaholic!
Here I had the pleasure of interviewing the fashion enthusiast and lifestyle blogger on how she began her journey. Read more about Janet’s story and thoughts on starting a blog, staying connected with readers, and collaborating with designers:
Q: Can you tell me about your blog and what motivated you to start it?
A: My blog is about my passion for fashion and how I portray that in my day to day life. I also offer travel and lifestyle content. I started Fashionaholic because I wanted to showcase my personal style and blogging was the perfect fit.
Q: How would you describe your own personal style?
A: Modern and edgy with high and low fashion.
Q: You have amazing ensembles! Where do you find the inspiration for your blog posts?
A: I love checking Instagram for inspiration, but honestly most of my inspiration comes from experimenting with different pieces in my own closet. Everything I wear on the blog I styled myself.
Q. You have a lot of followers to your blog and on facebook. How do you do this? Was there ever a time when you had say only one follower?
A: I worked hard at it over time, two years to be exact. It did not happen overnight! I also post consistently, use hashtags and creatively style my outfits to always keep my readers entertained.
Q: Once you’ve got the followers how do you keep them?
A: Keep posting! Once you’ve got a solid base of followers they will start to look forward to new content and check back regularly.
Q: What’s the biggest tip you have for anyone wanting to start a fashion blog?
A: Have your own style and voice, don’t be afraid to try new things and don’t get discouraged. I’m sure every blogger has had moments where they want to give up.
Q: What is the biggest challenge about fashion blogging?
A: Lack of time. I have a full time job and two kids, so it’s hard to juggle it all.
Q: How did your styling collaboration with Nicole Miller come about?
A: I had a contact at the company, but it never hurts to email designers you want to collaborate with. It’s worked for me in the past with getting into fashion week shows and collaborating on events.
Q. What advice do you have for fashion bloggers regarding blog collaboration with designers and boutiques?
A: Don’t be afraid to contact them! They want to work with fresh faces to reach new audiences and markets.
Think Pink. Dream Big. Achieve Wonders. A lesson not typically learned on a Thursday night now is it? 🙂
Xo~ Lena
Dress: Alexander Wang// Shoes: Salvatore Ferragamo// Clutch: Tory Burch// Accessories: Topshop
Photos: Jason J Photography
The Wanderluste 