Blogger Of The Moment: Cupcakes and Cashmere
True to the name of her blog, Emily Schuman of Cupcakes and Cashmere combines two sweet passions—food and fashion—into one completely addictive lifestyle destination. Like a modern-day Martha Stewart, Emily inspires readers to take a crafty, DIY approach in the closet and the kitchen alike. Spend just a few minutes in her online presence, and you'll be inspired to make chocolate-dipped pretzels and decorate your room with vintage flea market finds -- while wearing Balenciaga heels.
She landed a covetable position at right out of college, but Emily's blog soon caught on and blossomed into a full-time job. The writer, baker, and all-around fashionista, who has become one of the most popular style tastemakers and foodies on the web, now spends her days scouring flea markets, whipping up homemade brownies, and chronicling her charming life in Los Angeles. Her first book, to be released next spring, is just another indication of her talent and inspirational success.
1/11Get to know internet it girl Emily Schuman in this Q&A.
2/11Age: 28
Hometown: Mill Valley, California
Date Started Blogging: March 2008
Why did you initially decide to start a blog?
I first started my blog because I was uninspired at my job and felt like I had gone for months without doing anything creative.
3/11What is the story behind your blog's title?
I wanted to create a name that incited a really positive reaction; something that people were passionate about. I knew I wanted to incorporate both food and fashion and I loved the alliteration of Cupcakes and Cashmere!
4/11** If your blog had a mission statement, what would it be?**
How to live a fulfilling and fashionable life.
How would you describe your style?
It changes often, but I usually find myself drifting towards simple silhouettes that have a feminine, vintage feel.
5/11Who are your favorite designers? Why?
I love Marchesa for the confectionery-like dresses, Alexander Wang for his hip and minimalistic basics and Celine for creating wispy pieces that are somehow both structured and relad.
6/11Who inspires your wardrobe and why?
I wouldn't say there's a particular person who inspires my wardrobe, but I look everywhere from old movies, art and music to seasonal colors and textures.
What do you do when you're not blogging?
I love going out for brunch with girlfriends, walking around flea markets, hiking, watching movies and baking. A lot of my time as of late has been spent writing, since my first book comes out in spring 2012. It covers the same topics on my blog (fashion, beauty, home decor, food and travel), but in more of a seasonally focused guide of sorts.
7/11What are your personal favorite blogs? Why?
Carolines Mode is my go-to site for inspiration since it’s a great balance of trendy items, comfortable basics and how to put outfits together in a fashion-forward way.
8/11What type of camera do you use?
I have a Nikon d300s, which I love.
Where are your favorite places to shop?
My favorite place to shop is the Rose Bowl flea market (every second Sunday of the month) since I find special pieces that nobody else has. For upscale shopping, I like Barneys, Net-a-Porter and Intermix, and rely on Zara, Topshop, Forever 21 and H&M for affordable, trendy pieces.
9/11Are there any trends you're particularly inspired by this season?
I can't get enough of pleated maxi skirts, patterned silk scarves (to wear in my hair), structured bags and peachy/coral lipsticks.
What trend from the past would like to make a comeback?
Well luckily for me, high-waisted flares are currently making a comeback since they're infinitely more flattering and forgiving than skinny jeans.
10/11What clothing item would you say is timeless?
A slim fitting leather jacket with minimal detailing.
What beauty product can you not live without
My Maybelline Define-A-Lash mascara... it adds serious drama to your lashes without looking too done-up.
11/11Any advice for anyone who wants to start her/his own blog?
Write about what you love and are passionate about. There's no right way go about it and that's something I didn't realize when I started. I hadn't seen any other blogs that combined fashion and food and I was nervous that I'd be covering too many topics...but in the end, you have to just write about things that you'd want to read. Personalize your blog as much as possible (have a great header, etc.), write often, keep posts short and sweet and have great photographs.
What are the best aspects of running your own blog? What are the hardest aspects?
I love that I get to work for myself and create compelling content on a daily basis. I constantly feel fulfilled and inspired, but also challenged, which is really important for me. But it's also a ton of work, so it can be exhausting and tough to always have to come up with new original content.
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