Trending 31st October 2015 by Genevieve Wilson
#MyBlogLife: STELLAR Meets Nuala Gorham Of Penny And Polaroids
We chat to full-time blogger Nuala about her fashion essentials and how we can nail that perfect outfit.
Tell us how you got into blogging?
I was thinking about setting up a blog for almost two years but I didn’t have the confidence to start. Dundrum Town Centre launched a blogger competition and my sister suggested I enter it so that gave me the perfect excuse. I began with the competition entries which needed to be blog posts, and it all went from there.
What do you do aside from blogging?
I’m a full time blogger since January 2015, but I also work as a freelance fashion writer and PR consultant from time to time.
What do you think has been the key to your success?
I’m really unsure how to answer that. I don’t really see myself as ‘successful’, I’m always striving to do better! I’ve always remained true to my style and very honest with my readers and I think that’s played a big role. Brands I work with have often told me they feel my blog is very genuine and that I have a personal style which is quite consistent, so I think that’s something people can relate to.
How do you make your photos so nice?
I have two cameras that have WiFi so I’ll often snap my Instagram shots with either my DSLR or Olympus Pen, and transfer these to my phone, so it’s quick and easy. I’ll sometimes snap with my iPhone but only if I have good lighting – lighting is key!
What’s the best part of being a blogger?
There are so many to choose from. I’m so grateful for the opportunities to travel and work with brands I love, but I think the best part is the friends I’ve made through blogging. I love spending time with other bloggers as it’s always so much fun, but also very motivational.
Has it opened many doors for you?
Yes, so many! I’ve been offered positions in both journalism and PR from my blog alone. I’ve learnt so much about business in general from blogging.
What are you favourite Irish blogs to follow?
I love Anouska Proetta Brandon and Retro Flame, they’re both very inspirational.
Favourite international?
I have so many! At the moment I really love Not Your Standard and A Fashion Fix.
Where do you get your outfit inspiration?
I’d get inspiration from fashion editorials and the accounts I follow on Instagram, but I’ll always make an outfit my own.
Where do you like to shop yourself?
At the moment I’m obsessed with Shopbop. There are so many brands and I’m always finding new ones on their website. I’m also loving Schutz shoes and they’ve a really great selection.
What’s your favourite type of outfit?
My staple would be ripped black jeans with pointed ankle boots and either a suede or leather biker jacket.
How’d you describe your style?
It’s very minimalist, I love structured pieces in black, white and grey.
How often do you shop?
Too often!
Any beauty products you can truly swear by?
I recently discovered Stila Stay All Day Foundation and I love it! I also swear by Chanel’s Soleil Tan bronzer and Nipple Balm for Lips – it’s lip balm, I promise! It’s my number one must-have product.
Splurge or save?
Splurge, I can’t even try and deny it.
What’s your next big buy?
I’ve just purchased a Chloé Drew bag which was a big splurge so I can’t justify another big buy anytime soon! Having said that, Aquazurra heels and a Saint Laurent bag are on my list.
What key items will you be wearing this season?
The Chloé Drew will be coming everywhere with me, my Stuart Weitzman grey over the knee boots, a suede biker jacket and a Reiss burgundy leather jacket.
Any tips for nailing the perfect ensemble?
My top tip would be to wear what suits you and what you feel comfortable in.
Wanna be a part of #MyBlogLife? It runs online weekly and in the magazine monthly, too. To be considered, you need to have a personal blog. Join STELLAR’s Facebook group, open to all personal bloggers, or drop an email to info@stellar.ie, telling us why we should feature you.