What to wear, what to wear? It’s a common dilemma for fashionable ladies. We scour the pages of Vogue and InStyle to learn what to wear and how to wear it – only to run into a friend/co-worker/fashion rival with the same attire. If you live in Chicago, you now have a new source for unique fashion…read on to learn more!
Week 3 – You want a revolution? No problem, as long as it is fashion-forward and colorful! Meet Nancy Cooper, blogger for Violet Revolution.
Most fashion bloggers are found in NY or LA. Why did you choose to focus on Chicago fashion?
I wanted to bring more focus to the fashion scene here. We have lots of local designers and boutiques that are amazing, and most people I know personally don’t know much about them. The awareness and information I bring people lets them know that they can shop in their own backyard for something unique, instead of a big box retailer.
Do you have a favorite boutique or local designer? Why are they your favorites?
I don’t think I could pick just one! I like different aspects about a number of designers and boutiques. My style is what I would like to call “fashionably comfortable”, so I gravitate to looks that I can easily integrate into everyday. I also like styles that are eye-catching and totally different from anything I have ever seen before, so I am very open-minded when it comes to seeking out designers and boutiques.
If you could describe the city of Chicago as having a specific style, what would that be?
In the Midwest, we are a bit more conservative than NY and less relaxed than LA. In NY, people are more eclectic (think Sex in the City). Could you imagine people walking down Michigan Avenue or even the Loop dressed like Carrie and her friends? Also, LA is super casual, people live in jeans all day, every day. The local designers that I feature on my site definitely cater to the Chicago woman.
What should we be wearing this fall in Chicago (other than a heavy-duty coat)?
Military jackets are very popular, as well as riding boots and motorcycle jackets. The colors of the season are green, taupe and brown. Also, faux fur (especially on vests) is a staple item this season (I just purchased one myself)!
Another trend right now is leopard. You definitely don’t want to go overboard with it and you shouldn’t wear a whole lot of leopard all at once (don’t wear a leopard hat, blouse, shoes, bag and belt all at the same time). What you want to do is mix a piece or two (like a shoe and blouse) in with a solid color (like black or red), and make sure the leopard pattern in each piece is similar.
What are some of your fashion don’ts?
If you wear leggings or jeggings (leggings that resemble denim jeans), you should wear a top or dress that hits you mid-thigh. No matter your size, no one looks good in a cropped top and leggings.
You should also know your body type and wear clothes that flatter your frame. For example, if you are pear-shaped (wider in the hips than your torso), don’t wear waist-length coats, opt-for something longer.
I’ve noticed that you also have a newsletter that readers can subscribe to via your blog. That’s very smart! How much of an impact has this form of online marketing communication had on your blog’s exposure?
It’s had a great impact, because people who subscribe the newsletter get advance notice of fashions that will be released on my blog before anyone else and hear about my contests and promotions first. Also, The Exclusive Fashion 5 newsletter provides five tips, five stores or five designers that I recommend. This is a major point of interest for true Chicago fashionistas!
Do you have any goals for your blog in 2011?
I do, I am hiring interns right now to help with some new efforts, which is very exciting! This was the first year, so I want to continue to grow Violet Revolution’s influence in Chicago…stay tuned!
SPECIAL OFFER: If you have any styling questions or need a personal shopper, contact Nancy at 312-884-1013. She is willing to assist you free of charge if you mention that you read her interview on the Freshly Baked Communications blog!
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