Photo credit: Courtesy of HerUni.com
A student-run online social enterprise, HerUni.com is the London Uni girl's go-to-guide. Recently shortlisted for the 2011 Cosmopolitan Blog Awards and winner of Handpicked Media's 'Get Blogging' Award, we caught up with the editor-in-chief to discuss inspiration and dream collaborations.
What is your best all time fashion moment?
My all time best fashion moment was when my mother gave me my first designer handbag. It was a mini Speedy Louis Vuitton in the classic monogram. She woke me up the morning of my 6th grade graduation to give it to me and told me I should always cherish and take care of it. For some girls, their first kiss makes them feel like they've transitioned from a girl to a woman, for me this was it.
What inspires you?
Long talks with my boyfriend, travelling with my family and listening to my iPod whilst riding the bus, observing the people walking on the streets of London.
What is your first fashion memory?
I remember a friend of mine bringing a copy of Hello! magazine to school when I was 13 years old. We sat down going through the pages and I couldn't help obsessing about the pale lilac gown by Tom Ford for YSL, which Nicole Kidman wore to the 2003 Golden Globe Awards. I don't know if it was the ruching train of fabric falling on the back, the black strappy stilettos or the beautiful chandelier earrings she wore, but from that moment on, my admiration for fashion was born.
Person you would most like to collaborate with...
There are a few collaborations that I would love to see come to fruition for HerUni.com. I would love HerUni.com to collaborate with Tarek Malouf, owner of Hummingbird Bakery, the best American cake and cupcake shop in London. I'm a personal fan (and addict!) of their treats. Since almost every girl adores a beautifully hand-crafted cupcake, I think it would be a fantastic partnership for HerUni.com.
Another collaboration would be with Glamour magazine. Glamour is a publication that speaks to our demographic, therefore joining forces with them would be very beneficial for both Glamour and HerUni.com. I would also love to partner up with Topshop, one of the most popluar high-street retaliers amongst the female student demographic. A partnership with them would be a dream not only for us, but for our readers as well!
If you weren't an editor, what would you do?
I'd own a patisserie. My friends and family know that I am the worst cook ever, but don't ask me why, I've always had a great fascination for gourmet bakery shops. My dream has always been to have my own little shop and design eclectic packaging for the cakes to be sold in. Maybe one day...
Who is your style icon?
Jacqueline Kennedy during her Onassis days. But every now and then I have a Hollywood starlet whose style I admire (and sometimes emulate). At the moment it's Katie Holmes. I just adore her most recent wide-legged trouser, lady-like top and oversized shades combo. It's so simple, yet so chic.
What is the best piece of fashion advice you've ever been given?
My grandmother always told me no matter whatever you wear, you'll always stand out if you stand up straight with your shoulders back. My mother has always said that I should never go out without earrings or mascara, otherwise "You look naked", she says.
When you aren't writing and editing, what do you like to do?
I adore going to the cinema, especially for art films. The Curzon in Mayfair always has interesting films playing. I also love trying new restaurants, but nothing beats a night in with a DVD, chocolates and wine!
Name three things you can't live without.
Chocolate (in every shape or form), Diet Coke and Elizabeth Arden's 8 Hour Cream.
Fashion should be more...
Affordable without sacrificing quality!