Okay gorgeous dolls, it’s time for a high dose of sartorial inspiration! And by this we mean some seriously stylish ideas for every blogging enthusiast out there. We had the chance to sit down for a talk with wonderful Melanee Shale of melaneeshale.com and discovered not just a talented and fashion-forward L.A. blogger but also a fun and beautiful person. Her blog features loads of super-duper outfits ideas and, trust us, once you visit it you can’t stop scrolling!
BG: First of all, who is Melanee Shale?
Melanee Shale: I’m a born and bred Los Angeles native. I’m currently in my last semester of grad school pursuing a degree in journalism at California State University, Northridge. I am the founder and editor of my own fashion blog called, “Melanee” www.melaneeshale.com. After I graduate, I hope to pursue a career as a fashion or entertainment news reporter.
BG.com: How and when did you first become interested in fashion? Why did you initially decide to start a blog?
MS: I was in my first year of graduate school and decided I needed a creative outlet away from homework. I always loved fashion and had my go-to list of fashion blogs that inspired me. One day I decided that I wanted to inspire girls as well and that is how my blog was born. To me, it’s important that girls feel empowered to be themselves and to think outside the fashion box.
BG.com: How would you describe your style? What are your must-haves? Do you have a style icon?
MS: I’m a born and bred Angelino and that is what most of my style emulates. It is hard to give my style an exact name since I try to be unique. I like to wear what makes me feel good and it also depends on how I’m feeling that day. But I would describe it as a mix of my two style icons, Nicole Richie and Olivia Palermo. They exemplify what I love about West and East coast fashion. Nicole Richie brings out my LA bohemian chic and Olivia Palermo brings out my New York edginess.
BG.com: Who are your favorite designers?
MS: Thakoon, Alexander McQueen and Chanel.
BG.com: Do you read other blogs? What are your personal favorite blogs?
MS: I definitely do! I love Sincerely Jules, Song of Style and Atlantic-Pacific.
BG.com: Which sartorial don’ts would make you call the fashion police?
MS: I’m all for experimenting and accepting everyone for their own personal style. I applaud those who go against the norm.
BG.com: Now, tell us a few things about your beauty routine! Makeup, skin care, favorite scents…
MS: My favorite scent that I’ve used for years is Chloé. Most of my makeup is by MAC and NARS.
BG.com: What do you do when you’re not blogging?
MS: Shopping, hanging with friends, dinners, drinking wine and seeing indie flicks.
BG.com: Do you have any advice for people wanting to start their own blog? What are the pros and cons of running a blog?
MS: The best advice I can give is to be consistent. You have to put yourself out there and take advantage of every single social media site. Don’t give up, stay true to who you are and be creative! Keep your readers coming back for more by keeping your posts fresh and unique every single time. If you love blogging then there are no cons of running a blog! The biggest perk is getting to work and collaborate with amazing brands. I’m extremely humbled by how many I’ve worked with in my short blogging career. I’ve also met a number of fellow bloggers who I now consider great friends.
BG.com: Now, a little word game! What is the first thing that comes up in your mind when hearing the following words:
MS: Instagram: addicted! (@melanee)
Animal prints: I need a leopard clutch
Peplum: enough is enough
Fashion Week: Paris, Milan, New York! I want to go to all!
Maxi: I’m a maxi lover! It’s in the title of my blog
Music: soothes my soul.
Make sure to check out Melanee’s blog and her really cool LA style!
