Gemma Cartwright and Michele Obi talk fashion blogging

Before she left Shiny Media for pastures new, I asked Gemma Cartwright how Catwalk Queen maintained its leading position and what advice she would give to up and coming bloggers.

Michele Obi of My Life Media, also gives her reasons why the website she founded, My Fashion Life, remains one of the UK’s leading style blogs.

Gemma Cartwright on maintaining Catwalk Queen’s position...

“The site’s been running for a very long time and we have quite a legacy behind us, which I think helps.

We also benefit from having contributors on the other side of the world which means we can break big stories first.
Immediacy is very important to us! I think the fact we’re not scared to target the everywoman is also important.

We’re not trying to compete with the fab fashion blogs written by model-like waifs who dress better than Kate Moss; they do it so well I don’t think there’s any point!

We aim to appeal to a broad range of ‘normal’ shoppers who like fashion and want to know more about it.”

Michele Obi on maintaining My Fashion Life’s position...

“I always try to ensure that we deliver quality content and when possible that we engage with our readers.

With blogging and the internet being so fast paced the focus can often be on churning out posts quickly, however our main priority at MFL is to deliver entertaining and informative posts.”

Gemma’s tip for new bloggers...
“Write what you know! If you shop in New Look and Primark then don’t try to pretend you wear vintage all the time.

If you make all your own clothes and hate the high street, don’t suddenly fill your blog with stuff from Topshop.
You’ll soon get bored and stop updating. You need to write about what you’re passionate about!”

Michele’s tip for new bloggers...
“Read, read and read some more! Your RSS reader should be your best friend.

Most importantly have fun with your blog. At times blogging can be quite stressful especially if you’re always on the hunt for new and fresh content but really blogging should be an enjoyable experience.”