Blogger Of The Moment: Fashion Chalet
Erika Marie de Palol of Fashion Chalet is a one-time Barneys New York personal shopper and stylist turned personal style blogger residing in North Carolina. This cyber fashionista is just as comfortable wearing a pair of rented bowling shoes as she is wearing a pair of pony hair ankle boots. Spend a few minutes in her internet presence, and you'll be inspired to throw on a pair of sunglasses and a pair of sky-high heels in hopes of channeling her laidback glam.
Since starting her blog three years ago, she has brought a bit of New York style to North Carolina. Her anything-but-jaded interest in fashion will leave you feeling excited and wanting to attend Fashion Week, too. As a style tastemaker, she proves that American Eagle Outfitters and Christian Louboutin can rock the same outfit.
1/11Get to know internet it girl Erika Marie de Palol in this Q&A.
2/11Age: 26
Hometown: Miami, Florida (now living in Raleigh, North Carolina)
Date Started Blogging: 2008
Why did you initially decide to start a blog?
I used to post my weekly outfits on fashion forums and Flickr. I wanted a website of my own to do so with and to also share my other passions: music, inspiration collages and food.
3/11What is the story behind your blog's title?
I wanted a French-sounding name. I liked the way Chalet rolls off the tongue.
If your blog had a mission statement, what would it be?
A blog about a girl with a fixation for shoes, rings, nail polish and models' off-duty style. Muse boards and music inspire my varied looks.
4/11Who inspires your wardrobe and why?
I am inspired by so many things. It could be a trip to a new place, an upbeat song, or a polished look on an actress in a movie. I also clip images from magazine editorials that resonate with me.
What do you do when you're not blogging?
I enjoy reading, biking, cooking, playing tennis and scouring vintage boutiques for great finds.
5/11Who are your favorite designers? Why?
Chanel is classic and romantic; many of the pieces can go from day to night with ease. Balmain is edgy yet comfortable. Dolce & Gabbana captures the spirit of beauty and ready-to-wear with such elegance. Balenciaga, Proenza Schouler and Ports 1961 all have classy attributes with modern edge. I admire so many collections from so many designers, my list could go on. Each year, each season captivates my attention. I live for Fashion Week!
6/11How would you describe your style?
A dip into the 1950s with a tinge of rock and roll. I like to wear black a lot, but I'm not afraid of color or mixing prints. If Audrey Hepburn and Freja Beha Erichsen designed a line together, it would be me.
7/11What are your personal favorite blogs? Why?
I read many blogs that share editorials and looks of models and celebrities off-duty. Some are: Little Plastic Horses, French Frosting, and Fashion Gone Rogue.
8/11Any advice for anyone who wants to start her/his own blog?
Blog about what you love. The rest will follow. And always stay true to yourself.
What are the best aspects of running your own blog? What are the hardest aspects?
I like being in charge. It's up to me to produce the content. The hardest is sometimes not having the time to take pictures.
9/11What type of camera do you use?
I rock back and forth between a Nikon and two Canons.
Where are your favorite places to shop?
H&M, American Eagle, Urban Outfitters and Barneys New York.
10/11Are there any trends you are particularly inspired by this season?
Capes and flat boots.
What trend from the past would you like to make a comeback?
Acid wash denim jackets instead of acid wash denim pants.
11/11What clothing item would you say is timeless?
A black blazer and black platform pumps.
What beauty product can you not live without?
Stila Kajal eyeliner in Onyx.
