Blogger Of The Moment: That's Chic
Rachel Nguyen of That's Chic is all about the OC—the actual county in California, not the TV show. Though she and Marissa Cooper are both style mavens, Rachel hopes to use her blog to dispel the stereotype that the OC is full of designer-clad snobs. Over the past three years, Rachel has been avidly documenting her dreamy SoCal life with sundrenched photographs, breezy boho ensembles, and an infectious enthusiasm for L.A. This veteran blogger is not only a full-time student and part-time assistant, but also is managed by Next Model Management—the same agency that manages Alexa Chung, who shares a similar sartorial sense.
In addition to posting personal outfits, she celebrates different days of the week with quirky themed post, ranging from current music obsessions to delectable pictures of food to home décor inspiration. Just like her blog posts, this industry it-girl's wardrobe includes a little bit of everything—from retro-glam in a ruched Norma Kamali one-piece bathing suit to whimsical in furry Minnie Mouse ears. Spend a few minutes in her online presence, and you'll be booking a vacation to Disneyland in no time. Just don't forget to bring your fiercest outfit.
1/11Age: 21
Hometown: Los Angeles, California
Date Started Blogging: July 2007
Why did you initially decide to start a blog?
I needed some sort of outlet for my creative boredom in high school.
2/11Get to know internet it girl Rachel Nguyen in this Q&A.
3/11Who inspires your wardrobe and why?
I'd have to say real people with real style and real budgets. It's easy to get dressed up when you're around the internet all the time and willing to drop $500 to update your wardrobe at a fast fashion place. But being a budgeter myself, I've always admired people who can get dressed by what they're drawn to, not by what is being cranked out by the masses.
4/11How would you describe your style?
Whatever California casual is, with eclectic, contrasting quips.
Who are your favorite designers?
Phoebe Philo, Ance, Paulo Melim Andersson (where is he?) and Miuccia Prada.
5/11What is the story behind your blog's title?
A very embarrassing one! In high school, which was also during Paris Hilton's prime, I would mock her trademarked phrase, "That's hot." While I was very close to naming my blog after that (because I really didn't think anyone would read it), I changed it to That's Chic. Uneventful story.
If your blog had a mission statement, what would it be?
Orange County isn't as lame and snooty as the TV shows make it out to be!
6/11What do you do when you're not blogging?
I go to new restaurants and ride rides at Disneyland.
What are your personal favorite blogs? Why?
There are too many to name! I've met a lot of bloggers in the time I've been blogging myself, and they're all my favorites—each unique and personal in his or her own way!
7/11Any advice for anyone who wants to start her/his own blog?
Make your own rules and don't stick to the template blogging style! It's always nice to stumble upon a unique, different voice.
What type of camera do you use?
I am a Canon lover! I've been with my XSI for years.
8/11**What are the best aspects of running your own blog? What are the hardest aspects? **
Gosh, meeting people! And through meeting people, having the opportunity to work with people I admire on a creative level. I used to feel super lame when I would meet up with my "blogger friends." I think my friends thought I was making up imaginary people, but I gave it a few years, and these "blogger" friends became some of my life friends.
The hardest thing is keeping up with the work! There are a lot of (fun) projects and emailing to keep up with! Especially being a full-time student and part-time assistant, it gets hard juggling all three.
9/11Where are your favorite places to shop?
eBay, thrift stores and consignment shops for designer stuff!
Are there any trends you are particularly inspired by this season?
Monochromatic outfits.
10/11What trend from the past would you like to make a comeback?
None because it's all recycled.
What clothing item would you say is timeless?
A white button-down—can't have too many of those!
11/11What beauty product can you not live without?
Laura Mercier's eye brow pencil—thick eyebrows help frame the face and I definitely have lackluster brows.
