A day in the life of a fashion influencer

Blogger Fantail Flo took some time out to talk to us about life as a fashion influencer, her top tips for blogging success and what inspires her.

When did you start blogging/ social media, and what was your motivation for getting started?

I first started nearly 7 years ago when I met a friend who was into fashion blogging. She started a blog and I felt inspired by her style to create my own. I started out blogging about my daily life, but I soon discovered that I enjoyed writing about my daily outfits and taking photos of what I was wearing. I’ve always enjoyed writing so the blog was a great way to pursue my hobby while meeting lots of new people.

What has been the key to your success?

I think consistency and persistency is the key. When I first started blogging, it was difficult to gain fans and gain a trusted following. But I focused on presenting the best side of my daily life to my audience, and created a signature look to my blogs and feed. It’s really great to interact with fans online too, as it helps build a meaningful two-way relationship.

Where does your style inspiration come from?

I’ve always been interested in art and creative endeavors. I think I am naturally artistic and have always had an eye for beautiful, colorful things. I prefer to look on Pinterest or Youtube for style inspiration, and I find that going thrift shopping gives me lots of interesting clothing to play with.

What does a typical day in your week look like?

I’d wake up at around 9, grab a fresh fruit breakfast and head to the library to revise for my classes. I’m still studying so I’m trying to get as much work done during the day as possible. I enjoy taking long tea breaks, daydreaming about what I’m going to be blogging next and then going home to relax and wind-down. Of course, if it’s a weekend, my days are filled with trips to the pub or just catching up with my friends.

Who is your primary audience and what do you think keeps them coming back to your blog?

My main audience is young women all across the world. I think it’s easier to relate to people who are in your age group and they often like the same styles that I do. I think I share bits of my personal life with them on my blog, and that’s what keeps them coming back.

Do you see yourself as an 'influencer', and if so, what does that mean to you?

I really like the term ‘influencer’ as it implies that I can affect people’s choices and lifestyles, but I think that blogging touches upon other peoples’ lives in indirect ways. For example, I can see a picture of an awesome outfit and forget about it the next day, only to come across someone on the street wearing a similar outfit. Somehow, your brain connects the two. I think that’s the true power of social media.

What advice would you give to someone thinking about getting into the world of influencing/social media?

It’s hard starting out- make sure you don’t give up and keep trying to interact with people around you. It’s always hardest at the start, but it gets easier.

What trend should every woman embrace this summer?

I really like the mules trend- everyone’s getting mules and they’re perfect for the summer. They’re cool, stylish and looks great with jeans or a skirt. I’m a fan of nude colors, so for me, nude is the tone to go for.

Why do you think the linen trend has had a resurgence this summer?

Linen is one of my favourite materials as it keeps the body cool in the hot summer months. I’m not surprised that this trend is been back on the market. I think linen shirts look great, especially linen shirts on men as it gives off the “I don’t care” look but makes men even more attractive and mysterious! Perhaps it’s the laid-back, casual vibe you get from linen clothing!

What’s your favourite quote?

Someone once told me- “you always believe that first love is your last, and your last love is your first”. It has always resonated with me because it made me realize that everything happens for a reason, and everything is relative.

How has your Instagram feed evolved over time?

I’ve always taken my own instagram photos as I don’t have a photographer. I first started out doing photoshoots in my room with a mobile phone but I evolved into using a professional camera. Now I try to take all my photos against a plain white background and I have branched out to include more lifestyle and outdoor shots, which my fans seem to like.

What is your favourite piece from the Hawes & Curtis SS18 collection and why?

I actually love the linen shirts for women. I really like the light, pastel colored hues that Hawes & Curtis offers, and they’d be great for casual and formal occasions. I think the best thing about being a woman is that you can wear different blouses for work without having to stick to the rigid white cotton shirt. We have so much more choice than men! Linen shirts are great, and they’re my favourite look this season.

What is your favourite office look?

I have a fondness for pencil skirts and a camisole. They look effortlessly chic and subtly sophisticated. Pencil skirts flatter people of all shapes and sizes!

What are the three classic items of clothing that every woman should own and why?

I would say that the top three classic items of clothing are first, a tailored coat. Something like a camel or navy coat for the colder months is effortlessly chic and versatile, and can be layered over a dress or trousers. Secondly, everyone needs a decent white shirt or blouse that they can just wear with anything. I like mine tucked into my skirt, and the high-waisted look is totally on trend right now. Lastly, a great pair of trousers is a must. Something black and simple would look great with anything.

What is your go-to outfit?

I usually dress up casually, and I love wearing a simple white long-sleeved tee with black jeans and nude flats. I’d add a leather jacket or a suede jacket for a “cooler” look. I love the look of a fitted jacket on women, it’s extremely flattering.

Do you have any exciting upcoming projects that you would like to share with us?

I do- I’m actually working on a project relating to music and my favourite band. But that’s a secret right now, more on that later!

How would you describe your style?

Elegant, classic with a hint of youthful playfulness.

How has your style developed since starting your blog?

I have definitely developed since 7 years ago. I think my style back then was more inconsistent and I was really into longer tops. Nowadays, I prefer to go for shorter, tailored looks which emphasize the lower body. I think there’s nothing nicer than a high-waist pair of trousers and something that makes me look a bit taller.

Who is your style icon?

I’ve always liked the style of Olivia Palermo, though I also like Gigi Hadid’s playful style. I love the nude and neutral tones of their outfits.

What has been your worst fashion faux pas?

I used to wear an oversized leopard print top when I was younger. I loved that top, but it looked way too mature for my age back then. I’d cringe if I ever see photos of myself with that outfit!

Check out Fantail Flo's instagram page and blog for sartorial tips and fashion advice.