Stylelist is about all kinds of fashion for all kinds of women. So in our Stylelist Blogger Network (which you should check out if you haven't already), we've teamed up with some of our best style bloggers and sites. Over the following weeks, we'll be introducing you to its members with these Q&As.
We are happy to present to you to Kirsten Smith of WhyDid, a self-described "style schizophrenic" with a great hate for one particular trend:
What's your one fashion regret?
Some people might say my midriff-baring prom dress or the pleather pea coat, but I don't regret those. The only fashion regrets I have are the times I've let someone talk me out of wearing something. If you feel good in it and you're feeling bold, wear what you want and don't worry about anyone else!
Who influences your style?
Honestly, I have always marched to the beat of my own drum. The thing that most affects what I wear is my mood. At times I feel like a style schizophrenic. One day it's all pastels and lace, and the next day I'm dressed like Joan Jett. I think that's what makes fashion fun: you can be whoever you want.
Who are your favorite designers?
I love the edge of Balmain, the ease of Alexander Wang and the elegance of Oscar de la Renta.
Who takes your photographs?
I take the majority of my photographs unless I'm in them. Then, I'm lucky enough to have the talented Jason Tusman (jasontusman.com) faithfully available, which is pretty fortunate seeing as my dog has no thumbs and has yet to master the art of backlighting.
Why did you start your blog?
To be quite honest, it all started with a pair of leggings. I wanted to start a crusade against women wearing leggings as pants. I love a pair of stretchy leggings as much as the next gal, but cover your bits and pieces, ladies!
What are your interests aside from blogging?
I love to read and get lost in a great book. My mom always told me to be a great writer, you have to be a great reader. Why are moms always right? Doesn't that get old? I could also spend hours on end watching animal videos on YouTube. Is that weird?
Do you have any hidden talents?
Not gonna lie, I'm a pretty awesome hula hooper.
What is your beauty routine?
I really enjoy playing around with makeup, but my day-to-day routine is pretty simple. Wash, moisturize and then follow up with three products that take me from wah-wah to wowza! Remede Translucent UV Coat SPF 30, Benefit Benetint (on both cheeks and lips) and mascara -- right now I'm using Estee Lauder Double Wear Mascara. But that could all change in the blink of an eye (did you catch that?!). The trick is to look polished rather than painted.
What are your tips for aspiring bloggers?
Just start writing. Be confident and be consistent. Write what you want to write and don't be afraid to do things differently or to break rules. Also, learn all aspects from HTML to Photoshop to SEO. Don't just talk the talk, walk the walk. Be a one woman band (and brand).
Can you explain the title of your blog?
Well, it sounds pretty straightforward... and initially it was. Eventually I learned that people were interested in my real life experiences, not just an anonymous fashion blog. The name got shortened to WhyDid when I realized that women had questions not only about style, but about all aspects of their lives. I wanted WhyDid to be like the big sister you always wished you had. I'm in your corner, but I'm not afraid to give a little tough love when necessary.
Describe your perfect outfit
My perfect outfit would be a perfect contradiction. It's modest, yet sexy. Feminine but tough. (Like a pretty girl on a Harley...or a blonde in a black Porsche Turbo).
See our five favorite snaps from Kirsten in the slideshow below and check out more style inspiration at her blog, WhyDid:
FASHION RELATED LINKS YOU MAY LOVE:
Christian Siriano's Designing Fab Wedding Dresses For Nordstrom - Glamour
See A 2012 Version of Cher's Virtual Closet From Clueless - Lucky
How To Make Your Boring Winter Coat Look Cool - The Gloss
Winter Survival Plan: Curl Up In The Coziest PJs Ever - Refinery29
Artists Inspired By Shoes - Elle