I like to read. This is no joke--fiction, nonfiction, poetry, blogs, you name it! So I think its about time that I start sharing with you, dear readers, about some of my very favorite blogs. Not just the thousands-of-followers blogs, or famous-bloggers type of blogs, I'm talking about the type of blog that I sneakily read at work because I don't want to wait until I get home to read the newest post.
Bachman's Sparrow is one of these favorites. It's all about DIY, eco-friendliness, and fashion--what's not to love?
Want to learn more about the writer behind the blog? Read on, for my interview with Maria!
R: What led you to decide to start blogging?
Maria: A few things helped “persuade” me to start blogging! I went to college to be a journalist, but became a bit disillusioned with the competitive, high-pace atmosphere and ultimate lack of freedom to write what you want and believe in. Having a blog really allows me to speak my mind and write on topics I love. That coupled with my need for a creative output and my husband’s expertise in internet marketing led to me running my blog fulltime. I’m absolutely LOVING it!
R:
On Bachman's Sparrow, you always have the best DIYs! Where do you get ideas for your DIY projects?
Maria: Hahaha, well, for sure Martha Stewart inspires me. I always tell people my goal is to be a combination of Martha, Oprah, and Catherine Baba one day. Besides Martha though, really it comes down to me loving home décor, accessories and clothes that either are: a. Too expensive for me to afford or rationalize buying, or b. I just can’t seem to find in stores. Plus I always convince myself that I could make pieces of clothing that I find, and make it much cheaper. Unfortunately I usually discover the hard way that that’s not really the case lol. (P.S – by the way, here’s my first announcement for my store - http://www.etsy.com/shop/BachmansSparrow - where I’ll be selling some of my DIY projects! Hopefully items will be up by next week.)
{her rope necklace DIY--learn how to make it
Here}
R:
Who's your biggest style inspiration?
That’s such a hard question. I’m really all over the board in my tastes lol. I’m definitely drawn to the 1940s-50s, but I wouldn’t pinpoint a single person from that era as my style icon. I guess currently I covet Catherine Baba’s eclectic, eccentric look, and perhaps Kate Moss’ alternative chicness.
R:
If you had to reduce your closet to just five items, what would they be?
Eep! Another hard one. Okay, I’m going with practicality here over specific loves: one floral print dress, one soft, brown leather jacket, one pair of dark wash jeans (R&Rs please), one retro swimsuit (which would double as a shirt beneath said jeans), and a pair of high-waisted shorts from Marc Jacobs’ spring 2010 show.
R:
What is your favorite summer trend? Any fashion predictions for the fall?
I absolutely love all the nautical stuff out right now. I can’t get my hands on enough rope accessories! I also can’t go more than a few days without wearing a turban. As for fall, I hope to see tons of mixed prints and chunky knits return, à la Anna Sui (if you haven’t looked at her fall show yet, DO!).
R: What advice would you give girls shopping on a budget?
Consignment stores are amazing – I’ve gotten so many designer stuff for super cheap and in great condition! Also, I’ve recently discovered my love for discount stores like Ross and Marshalls. Sure it takes a bit more effort, but when you score a great deal it’s such a high! Lastly, if you know your measurements I highly recommend shopping online. Overstock.com and the like are great.
R: What's the best fashion advice you've ever been given? On the flip side, what's the Worst fashion advice you've been given?
Best fashion advice would probably be anything from my mom – she has great taste and tends to support even some of my crazier choices, which I appreciate. Worst advice? When one of my closest friends in middle school told me I couldn’t wear brown!
So, if you'd like to read some more great fashion advice, go check out
Bachman's Sparrow!
*And don't forget to
enter my Dandelion T Giveaway! The deadline to enter is June 14~!*
