#MyBlogLife: We Meet Instagram Addict And Blogger Shona Lenehan Of Shostyle

When did you start blogging?

I started blogging after my Leaving Cert in 2014. I’ve always loved everything about the world of fashion from a very young age, and when I joined Instagram I began to see all these amazing fashion blogs – and I knew it would be something that I’d love to do.

I’ll always try and make time for blogging though, because it’s something I really enjoy doing, and I think it’s important to do the things that make you happy.

How often do you blog, and what do you do asides from blogging?

I write a blog post at least once a week. I’m now also a full time student in NUI Galway where I study French, Psychology and I.T., so fitting the time in is a bit harder now. I’ll always try and make time for blogging though, because it’s something I really enjoy doing, and I think it’s important to do the things that make you happy.

Do you think it’s easy to break into?

When I started I actually didn’t realise how big of an industry blogging is, there are thousands of bloggers out there. So yes, I guess it is hard to get yourself out there. I’m sure most bloggers will agree though, even gaining one new reader is so exciting!

What’s the best thing about blogging?

The opportunities that blogging can bring to you are so exciting, it’s also such a great way to make new friends. The blogging community is really understanding of each other and there’s a great support group amongst bloggers. You look out for one another.

Do you think social media and the need for likes puts pressure on young girls and bloggers?

I’m a self confessed social media addict and I’ll admit I probably should spend more time offline, but it’s the best way to promote your blog, so I’m torn. I do think it puts pressure on young girls, though. I’ve have scrolled through my Instagram feed wondering ‘why can’t I look like her’ or ‘why isn’t my life as together as hers’, but then I remind myself SOCIAL MEDIA ISN’T REAL LIFE!

I know I do the same though; I only show my best sides and I try to use the most flattering lighting, and so does every other girl. Once you keep that in mind, social media can be a wonderful thing. Accept the fact that nobody’s perfect, we all have our flaws and just because you can’t see someone elses flaws doesn’t mean they don’t exist.

Where do you get your outfit inspo?

Nearly all of my outfit inspo is gotten from bloggers I follow on Instagram.

Do you like to splurge or save when you go shopping?

I rarely splurge on items as I’m always on the hunt for affordable fashion but if I really, really love something and can’t get it out of my head, then I might splurge. The student budget doesn’t really allow for much of that though.

Best online sites?

I got my first dress from Motel Rocks the other day and I really don’t know how or why I haven’t bought from them before. I also always have a look at Missguided and Boohoo, and lately I’ve noticed Vavavoom.ie have some really gorgeous night out clothing. I’m definitely more of an online shopper than actually going into a shop and browsing-type shopper.

What’s on your Christmas wish list?

I definitely need some more faux fur in my life! It’ll be everywhere this Christmas and I love the whole faux fur, black jeans and black boots look.

Tell us about Depop, do you sell a lot of items on that?

I find Depop great for clearing out my wardrobe space because most bloggers are shopaholics! I have too many items of clothing and I try to sell quite a bit on Depop because I hate having clothes hanging in my wardrobe knowing that I won’t wear them again. I’ve bought a few pieces on it too, it’s a bargain hunters paradise.

My number one blogging tip would have to be ‘just do it’.

Any tips for aspiring bloggers?

My number one tip would have to be ‘just do it’. You need to just get that first blog post done and not care what others think of it. As long as you’re happy with it, then you’re bound to find somebody else that likes it also.

Another tip would be to remain patient, your blog readership probably will grow slowly but every reader counts – so be grateful towards all of your readers. My final tip would definitely be to make sure you have fun with blogging and enjoy – because life’s too short to be anything but happy.

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.

• #mybloglife
• Shona Lenehan