Collective Voice

Hey ShopStyle Collective! You are a very special and exclusive community, so we are always striving to help support you as a brand! We started doing Blogger Spotlights to showcase our unique members and hilight thier blogs so you can learn a little more about them as fellow bloggers. Today I’d love to introduce you to Alicia from Cheetah is the New Black.

Tell us a little bit about yourself.
I grew up in Chico (Northern California), studied biology in college (Santa Clara University), married my best friend, and made my way to the East Coast where I worked at my favorite magazine on thier dot.com team (Elle.com). After making our way back to the West Coast, I helped open a boutique and acted as a buyer. I’ve since stepped away from the store and focused more on stylilng and my lifestyle and fashion site: Cheetah is the New Black.

You’ve done it all! Styling, buying, writing for Elle — what has been your favorite gig thus far?
Gosh, it’s all been fun! I get bored easily, so I like to try a little bit of everything — the mix keeps me inspired and challenged. I will say, though, best of all is working for myself. Creating my own schedule and working on projects that excite me is pretty awesome, although, being a buyer, going to market and interviewing cool people like the Olsen twins (when at Elle) are right up there.

When did you start blogging and what made you want to start a blog?
I started Cheetah Is the the New Black a couple of years out of college in 2009. My boyfriend at the time (now husband) encouraged me to start a blog. He knew I loved writing and fashion and was in need of some kind of constructive creative outlet. I was living in San Francisco at the the time and working at an investment firm. Thankfully, through the blog, I was able to jump into the world of fashion and create a more fullfilling career path for myself.

I’ve been following your blog for some time and am always in awe of your gorgeous shoots — diner parties in the woods, flower-crown-crafting parties, rooftop soirees! Where do you get your inspiration from?
All over! I’m constantly sifting through magazines, scouring the Interwebs . . . and, obviously, Pinterest!!

Any favorite fellow bloggers or websites that inspire your personal style?
Always Judging (I’m loving her Tumblr right now for inspiration) . . . and I read my good friend Sam (Could I Have That?) daily. I also love to swoon over the design and eats on Eye Swoon.

As a lady on the go, what is the one thing you never leave the house without?
My iPhone (doesn’t everyone?)! And lip gloss.

You have become incredibly sucessful in turning your blog from a hobby into a brand and business. Any blogging tips for beginners?
Don’t worry about those first few posts or get caught up with trying to perfect your writing/photography . . . just start! It’s all an evolving process and you’re constantly working to build and improve your brand. Don’t take it too seriously, and stay true to yourself.

What is your next dream job? Dream collaboration with . . . ?
Styling a shoot in collaboration with Free People. I also what to throw a speakeasy-esque party in San Francisco — at a hidden location! Can we make it happen?

As a buyer and shop owner, I’m sure you’ve seen your fair share of fabulous brands! What are some of your favorite brands to wear?
I’m a loyal Isabel Marant fan and wearer. 😉 I’m also a big fan of Citizens of Humanity denim and anything IRO, Ulla Johnson, or Rebecca Taylor. I’m especially drawn to a mix of feminine and bohemian pieces since moving back to California. Oh and Gladys Tamez for amazingly unique and cool hats.

Since it’s Fall, what would be your ideal Fall outfit? And can we get a sneak peek into your fab holiday wardrobe must haves?
My ideal Fall outfit is skinny jeans, Western-inspired boots (these are my go-to pair), a cozy sweater, and a hat depending on my mood (or hair situation). Holiday must haves — an ivory pleated skirt or all-ivory/white look and a chic evening blazer.

Where do you do your shopping? And do you do “Black Friday” in stores or online? 🙂
I love boutique shopping best. I usually only shop when I’m in San Francisco or traveling . . . or online. My favorite boutiques are Curve on Fillmore (for unique designer pieces) and Dish in Hayes Valley. I’m also a big NET-A-PORTER.COM girl. I’m, gasp, not really into Black Friday shopping. This year I made one purchase on Cyber Monday at St. Frank (framed indigo for our family room).

What is one thing people would be surprised to know about you?
Hmm, if I wasn’t blogging, I probably wouldn’t be on any social media channels? I’m pretty shy about sharing my personal life actually . . . I never post on my personal Facebook account.

Flats or heels?
Heels (in boot form) because I need all the height I can get.

Favorite social media outlet?
Instagram.

All your handlges . . . ?
Instagram: @aliciamlund
Twitter: @AliciaMLund
Facebook: CheetahistheNewBlack
Pinterest: @alicialmlund

What do you love about ShopStyle Collective?
The team!!

Thanks, Alicia — that was fun! If you’d like to be featured please send over you blog url, with a little blurb on why you want to be feaured to charris@popsugar.com.

xo,
Carlina