TORONTO-BASED KRISTANIA PETRA OF MONOCHROMA.CHIC
CF: Tell us about your blog, and your offline life.
My blog Monochroma.Chic is a journal of my personal style – what I wear to work & during the weekends. I try to incorporate current fashion trends into affordable yet chic everyday looks. Outside blogging, I work the 9-to-5 job as an Assistant Accountant for an IT company.
CF: What inspired you to start a blog?
About 3 years ago, I was just casually browsing the internet for some fashion inspirations and I stumbled upon an online fashion community, called Chictopia. I was intrigued by the concept of documenting ‘real people’s’ outfits and share the photos online, so I joined the website. A few months later, I felt the urge to create my own website that people could know me by, so that’s when I started Monochroma.Chic.
CF: What mistakes do you see fashion blogs making?
It’s difficult to pin-point any mistakes because fashion is very subjective and blogging is just another form of creative writing. I’ll remain neutral in this case!
CF: What is your favorite blog post you’ve ever written?
My most favorite blog post so far would have to be Colors of The Season.
CF: How did you build a community around your blog?
I started off by visiting different blogs, leaving comments on their posts, and maintaining our interactions. I think this is a very effective grassroots approach and I still do it up to this point.
CF: What is your favorite social network?
Right now? I would have to say Twitter. I don’t tweet very often, but I usually find out about the latest news (in fashion & in general) from my Twitter feeds!
CF: What are your favorites Blogs?
I have tons! Some of my favorite Canadian blogs are Allure; Wild Tortoise; Marie A la Mode; Oh My Heart!; Her Waise Choice; Bleed For Fashion; Le Mode De Jour; Kastles; Style Sister Online; and Style Blog.
CF: What would you say to someone who is interested in starting a blog?
Do it whole-heartedly, even when you’re only doing it as a hobby. Taking pictures & writing blog entries take time and dedication. Update your blog regularly, visit other blogs, leave comments, make friends & expand your network. Also make sure you post great quality photos. You don’t need a DSLR camera to do this (I used a Canon point-and-shoot for a large chunk of my blogging years). You just need to find a well-lit, preferably with natural light, and less-cluttered space/backdrop.
Courtney Kos || Image Courtesy of Monochroma.Chic
