Blogger 101: Thoughts on Fashion Blog Opportunities

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In an ideal world, fashion bloggers wake up to tons of email every single day from companies offering us free clothes. Unfortunately, the real world is far from ideal. The world of fashion blogging (or blogging in general) is not nearly as glamorous as it is portrayed. Posing for photoshoots is not easy, either. And that is saying a lot given that that is the easiest part of the job (yes, I do refer to it as a job!). There is a lot more going on behind every single post before you can even hit the publish button. 

Hence, you can imagine the frustration that every fashion blogger feels when their email inbox is empty - not a single PR company or brand representative has taken the time out to even notice all of the hard work you've put in. It is more than just frustrating - it makes you question your decision to blog in the first place. Is this really for me? Do I have to re-think my decision to blog and shift my focus elsewhere? 

Don't get frustrated yet. I did have the same dilemma when I was starting off as a fashion blogger. I went on for months without anyone contacting me for a collaboration, etc. I just went on doing my usual round of posts, sharing things that I enjoyed. I tried to focus my attention back to my original intent of starting the blog. It's because I wanted an outlet for sharing my passion for fashion, and other related subjects. "I did not start out blogging to get free clothes or make money, right?" I reminded myself. 

When I adapted that perspective, it was only a matter of time until I got my first email and collaborative opportunity. When I entered my first year, more opportunities poured in. And this year, my second year of fashion blogging, I had more opportunities than I had the first year. I realized that fashion blogging is all about showcasing a part of who you are - your genuine personality. Eventually, brand representatives and PR companies will see through you. Brands will recognize that and find you a valuable representative for their brand online. Then, opportunities will come to you without you even having to look for it. I am not saying that it is guaranteed but if you can do that, you will put yourself in a much better position than when you first started. If you're working too hard to leave an impression, it will come off as unnatural. 

Hence, if you are starting out (say on your first year of blogging), don't stress yourself out over fashion blog opportunities. It will happen when it is meant to happen. Just do what you set out to do. Focus on making your blog a haven for other bloggers to get inspiration from, or share things that inspire you. Also, it is important to be genuine at all times. Your blog should represent your personality and style - not someone else's. 

I've read the London Beauty Queen's Blog Advice series, touching on this topic, especially on the area of jealousy. She raises an important point that I believe any new or budding fashion blogger must know: "I've experienced huge periods of jealousy, begrudging others' success when I really should be celebrating it - after all, someone has to pave the way and start opening doors!" I could not agree more. Unlike common perception, the pie is big enough for everyone. There is an opportunity waiting for you! But unless you are able to showcase who you really are, these brands can't see (and appreciate) that! Focus your energies on building your own site because that is where it's ought to be.

I hope you found these tips helpful. I am no expert when it comes to fashion blogging nor do I claim to have several opportunities to consider myself a major influencer in the field of fashion blogging. However, I felt the need to share my experience and perspective on the subject to help out those who were just starting out, because I know how it felt to be there. Don't get frustrated. Stay inspired and motivated. 

This is just the first of a series of posts that I am planning to write this new year to help out more bloggers in the community. I hope you stay tuned for the rest of this series. Or, if you have some questions or concerns, feel free to leave those questions in the comments or email me. I could possibly address them in a future post! Thank you! xo