Heroes of Menswear: 10 Questions for The Style Blogger « Sharp – Canada's Magazine for Men

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May 2013

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Heroes of Menswear: 10 Questions for The Style Blogger

<b>What’s the biggest misconception surrounding The Style Blogger?</b>
<br> <br>
People make all kinds of assumptions. The largest misconception, I think, has to do with what people think I'm trying to accomplish with The Style Blogger. Some people see all these pictures of myself and assume it's some kind of ego trip. As you mentioned, I started the website by writing anonymous style advice so that readers could try it for themselves. It was the requests and encouragement from readers that inspired me to share photos illustrating what I was writing about.
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The irony is that I'm actually a fairly private person (and sick of seeing pictures of myself). However, the biographical element has really helped readership, as well as my career outside of the site. It's only a matter of time before I can step back from the photos by scheduling more features and styling models for the topical posts.
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<b>Describe the process of making the transition from blogger/stylist to designer?</b>
<br> <br>
Selling original products on The Style Blogger seemed like a natural transition. In large part it was encouraged by readers offering to buy the products that we feature on the site - mainly the vintage pieces that have been altered or the bespoke suits I design via Michael Andrews.
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The eventual goal is to make The Style Blogger a full-service in men's styling. With the new site, launching this summer, readers will be able to browse inspiring editorials, read instructional information on how to pull-it-off, purchase our individualized recommendations and bring the process full-circle by sharing their own interpretations and reviews with other readers.
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The word "designer" gets thrown around a lot these days, especially with bloggers, so I wanted to really learn the craft before stepping into a new side of the business. I've been studying pattern-making and manufacturing for almost three years - both as a "tailor's apprentice" at Michael Andrews Bespoke and a student in the Menswear Design program at the Fashion Institute of Technology in NYC.

<b>Your team has expanded since your early days of anonymous blogging. Describe the dynamic and importance of working closely with a small team? </b>
<br> <br>
I've been very lucky in putting together a team of smart, stylish and loyal guys who work hard and are passionate about what we are trying to accomplish. The site only continues to get better and it's a collective effort from everybody involved.

<b>Were you initially hesitant about putting yourself out there? What advice do you have for fellow menswear bloggers and aspiring bloggers getting into fashion? </b>
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Yes. One of the reasons for the site's success is the variety of guys who can relate to the content. I want it to remain about clothing advice for "regular guys", not necessarily the opinions of a "fashion guy" working in Manhattan. The compromise is a healthy balance of "inspirational" mixed with "instructional.”
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As far as advice for other fashion bloggers... Find your niche — what makes you different? Create original content with photography. Understand that this is a career as a writer. And ultimately, believe in yourself, especially when others don't.

<b>What’s your opinion on the old adage, “The clothes make the man?” </b>
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I don’t believe it's necessarily true. Surely I know some great men who don't dress as large as their legacy.
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The adage's ability to stay relevant, however, represents the importance that our society puts on visual presentation. Unfortunately, whether you like it or not, you will be judged, before you even open your mouth to introduce yourself, based on the way you present yourself. We all know the importance of first impressions and your clothes play a huge role in that process.
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Dressing better improves the way the world perceives you, which, in turn, improves the way you perceive the world.

<b>How do you deal with the harsh criticism surrounding some of your more “experimental” looks (e.g. <a href=" http://www.thestyleblogger.com/4286/spring-outfitting-featuring-tsb-readers/"> cardigan/bare chest</a> , <a href="http://www.thestyleblogger.com/6455/1-piece4-ways-handmade-fur-scarf/">detachable fur collar</a>)?</b>
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I love it. Style is an opinion and you have to be ready for people to disagree, especially when you're pushing the boundaries a little. That's what makes this fun, as long as you have tough skin - people can be ruthless behind the anonymity of the Internet.
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This is also a business, and creating conversations about "controversial" topics typically results in a boost in readership. My creative process is very instinctual, but it's also very calculated.

<b>Working in close connection with Michael Andrews Bespoke in NYC, what’s the most valuable lesson you’ve learned about the tailoring process?</b>
<br> <br>
I've been working closely with MAB for three years and learned the custom clothing business from the inside out. The most valuable lessons, however, have less to do with tailoring and more to do with managing a small business that is growing quickly. My business is similar to Michael's in many ways and the two are mutually beneficial. He's my mentor, business partner and the smartest person I know, hands down.
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<b>Where do you think the line should be drawn between men taking their significant other’s advice and making their own clothing decisions? </b>
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If she/he is an expert in menswear, surely you should take her/his advice on menswear. Otherwise, you should know more about your own personal style based on your personality, what looks good on you and what makes you feel comfortable and confident.
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Of course, implementing elements that she/he likes to see is always a good idea, but on your terms.

<b> What’s the greatest compliment you’ve received from a reader? </b>
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<a href="http://sbdaily.thestyleblogger.com/post/21222479017/we-have-some-truly-amazing-readers-thank-you-for">This</a>

<b> What’s one article of clothing that every guy should have in his arsenal this summer? </b>
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A short-sleeve linen button-down shirt in a solid color that flatters their skin tone.
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When it gets really hot, things get really sloppy, really fast.

Comments

http://www.facebook.com/sinath.yang Sinath Yang

great video! Love it.

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