1. It looks great on resumes. Typically, having a blog wouldn’t benefit you in the working world when applying for a job, but in the fashion industry you would be surprised at how serious blogs are taken. Having a blog shows you’re invested and interested in fashion first hand, not just saying you are. Blogging allows you to show your abilities and demonstrate your passion, showing employers you mean business. A lot of fashion industry places hire blogging positions, as well, to run their companies’ personal fashion blogs. Having your own never hurts to show you’ve got what it takes.

2. Connections. Whether it be personal or professional, fashion blogging has allowed me to meet so many incredible people on the internet and in person. Through my blog, I’ve found an incredible group of ladies (and even some men!) who have been an awesome support system for me as I find my way through life and style. I’ve had the chance to meet some in person who live close or even go to Kent, and we’ve become actual life friends. I’ve also made a lot of industry connections. I’ve worked with the Goodwill Operation in Akron and met the head of public relations, been in contact with the heads of Aeropostale in New York and been offered multiple jobs after college through people I’ve formed relationships with through my blog. Pretty awesome!

3. Expressing your creativity. Having a fashion blogs means you can do anything and everything with it. Photos of your everyday outfits, updates on runway shows or even reviews on beauty products. It’s up to you! Having a fashion blog is like creating a garment or piece of art. At the end of the day you’ve put in a lot of effort and hard work to show to people who are interested in what you can do creatively.

4. Free items. This shouldn’t be the sole reason to fashion blog (it should be to have fun!), but it is a nice perk. Blogging has become an extremely accessible way for companies to advertise on the Internet. They will send you clothing, accessories, shoes, products, etc. for free in return for wearing them on your blog or writing reviews on them. I’ve been blessed enough to work with over 25 different companies and have found that readers and companies really value your opinion and what you have to say. Your honesty and thoughts are important!

5. Opportunities. Fashion blogging opens up a world of opportunities that are really endless. You can get invite to New York Fashion Week, be featured in ad campaigns, and Seventeen Magazine accepts bloggers to be a part of their style council every year, getting featured in their magazine. You never know what incredible opportunity can come out of blogging that will give you an experience of a lifetime.

All of these things are awesome perks of fashion blogging, but it’s important to remember to do it for the right reasons. Do it because you love it and because you’re passionate. Blogging is hard, time consuming work that a lot of people think is nothing. It’s the equivalent to having a part time job, but the rewards and satisfaction you receive are truly worth it. Whether applying to write for the Blitz next year or even starting your own remember; your dreams are never too far from your reach ♥

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Baggy clothes have their time and place, but excessive fabric in the wrong place can make you look much heavier than you are. Wearing clothes that are the wrong sizes can cause a case of instant-frump, but who has the money to spend on a new wardrobe? Here are a few key pieces to show off how fabulous you’re looking without breaking the bank.

The perfect jeans

Invest in one pair of perfect jeans that fits the new you. A dark wash is key, as you can dress them up for a night out or keep them casual for class. Opt for a pair with a little bit of stretch in them, for both comfort and an added slimming effect. My favorite is Express’s Jean Legging.

A structured jacket

Ditch heavy sweaters and bulky layers in favor of a light jacket or blazer that pulls together your ensemble. Say “No” to the boyfriend blazer on this quest, as you should aim to define your waist, not hide it. Make sure to pay attention to the length of each jacket; it should hit right above your hips. Blouses that now have a little extra room can be pulled together with a structured jacket that shows off the right curves.

A belt to pull it all together

There is no easier way to tighten up a look than to add a belt. As mentioned, make sure to emphasize your waist, as it’s the smallest part of your body. While a contrasting color will draw immediate attention to your figure, experiment with monochromatic looks by utilizing a belt of a similar color to your garment. Each way will look stylish and sophisticated.

Celebrate the body you’ve worked so hard for by showing it off before you reach the beach. Highlighting the right places of your hot bod doesn’t have to require a whole new wardrobe, just a few tweaks and a little creativity.

— Amanda

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Edgy-Rocker Chic

One of my favorite things to splurge on is accessories. I love wearing a simple pair of dark denim with a solid v-neck and spicing up my look with funky and chunky accessories. The elegant Hudson accessories boutique “In Style” carries an array of gorgeous bags, bracelets, necklaces and everything in between. This week, I chose a two-toned leather bag. I love how the purse has zippers that pull down to reveal vibrant red leather. It’s edgy, yet clean and sophisticated. My second pick is a sultry ruby crystal necklace. It is eye catching and lies delicately over the clavicles. For my last pick, I chose an affordable leather studded cuff. It fits comfortably around the wrists,  and it adds just the right punch to the glam rocker style.

Two-tone Shopper bag, $98
Leather Bracelete with Studs, $32
Ruby pendant, $96

Ashley’s Pick

“Model-off-duty Minimalism”

Minimalism is one style that seems to withstand all trends and fads that come and go so quickly in the fashion world. For a polished and sophisticated look, only a few sleek pieces are needed to make a bold statement. The minimalist trend was introduced by designer Celine three years ago and has significantly translated to the “model-off-duty” street style. The items I chose all have clean, classic lines and cuts that create an elegant aesthetic when put together. The necklace is especially unique in that it molds to different shapes and designs to add versatility to this type of look. When it comes to dressing minimalist and choosing accessories, the key is “less is more.”

 Silver cuff, $30
Necklace, $172
Bag, $179

Megan’s Pick

“Ultra-Glam Adornment”

Make a statement with your accessories!
When it comes to jewelry, shorter necklaces are my go-to choice because they work great with a pixie cut. Try a chunkier necklace like this resin, chain-link necklace in a striking emerald green shade.
If you’re looking for a clutch you can continue using through the ages, try a chic leopard print.
With this colorful necklace and statement clutch, keep your apparel understated, and let these glam accessories make your look!

Necklace, $52
Clutch, $78

PHOTOS BY MATT HAFLEY
Models (top to bottom): Julia, Ashley and Megan
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