Young, Fat and Fabulous Gabi

As I am well aware that all women require the assistance of one another to survive the fashion trends that hit our stores, I wanted to introduce to you a fellow blogger whose inspiration and advice has kept me enthralled. Her individuality and fashion savvyness has made me realise that trends are there to adapt and to suit your style not the other way around. She has been and will continue to be a true fashion inspiration.

So just for the readers of 100% People, I spoke to Gabi about her Young, Fat and Fabulous blog, how it all started and what her favourite items are. Not only this but her answers are full to the brim with advice, take a look at the interview and her most loved wardrobe items.

I adore your blog, Young, Fat and Fabulous, where does your passion for fashion come from and how did your blog first start?

My passion for fashion grew slowly, to be honest. When I was younger, I wasn’t that into it. It started in high school, but I didn’t actually become what I’d consider “fashionable” until about three years ago. In college, I became more interested in high end designers and magazine editorials. I think what really inspired me was the new wave of street style blogs. Once I began posting pictures of my outfits in a Livejournal community and got really positive feedback, I decided to start my own fashion blog.

You always look fabulous, what is your experience with fashion?

Young, Fat and Fabulous has really pushed me to create great outfits and think outside of the box; my style has evolved and improved so much even in the last year since I’ve started blogging. Knowing that other people (besides those around me) will see and judge what I’m wearing is kind of intimidating, but in a good way–I think it forces me to care more about what I’m wearing. In terms of my fashion experience, it’s pretty limited. I had none before I began blogging, but since YFF has become more popular, I’ve gotten opportunities to attend and write about fashion shows, meet designers, and interview a few celebrities. It’s definitely an honor considering not even a year ago, I would have never imagined any of those things happening.

How do you find your inspiration for your blog posts?

It can be tough sometimes! Blogging really is harder than people think; a lot of times I can’t think of fresh topics and I get discouraged. I’m a perfectionist, so I often have ideas that I think “aren’t good enough to blog about.” I try to stay on top of what’s happening in the fashion world by reading relevant blogs, magazines and websites. I also browse plus size stores as much as possible and try to gather the most fashionable items to share with my readers. In the end, I really just try to express my point of view and hope that people find it beneficial.

You say in your ‘About you’ that you want to change the world one fat girl at a time, can you explain your slogan?

I know it’s difficult for many fat women to love themselves and truly believe they can be beautiful. I want my blog to inspire women and let them know that they can be fashionable and trendy–they don’t have to sacrifice style just because they’re bigger. I think being stylish can really change how people perceive you and how you perceive yourself. Dressing well is an integral part of feeling good about how you look and who you are. If my blog can help even one fat girl in her journey to loving herself, then I am happy.

What do you enjoy most about blogging?

As cheesy as it sounds, I love receiving emails from my readers. Everyday, I get mail from ladies all around the world who tell me how great my blog is, or how I have helped them realize that beauty is not synonymous with thinness. Each letter makes me smile, and it truly makes blogging worthwhile.

I know you are looking for a job at the moment, what would be your dream job?

I’d love to be a fashion editor at ELLE or Vogue, but that really is just a far off dream. Realistically, I would love to turn YFF into something bigger and better (I’m working on it) and eventually support myself doing what I am already doing now!

What are your 5 favourite items of clothing in your wardrobe currently?

Like many girls, I have so much stuff, but I am not really loving any of it. Since I’m broke at the moment, I haven’t gotten too many new things recently and I’m feeling kind of indifferent about my wardrobe right now. I did just buy these amazing Jeffrey Campbell studded black booties which are amazing, though.  Basically, I just need to go shopping!

What are your lusts for the coming season?

Anyone who reads my blog knows I love all black ensembles. I’m really into the rocker chic look, though it is kind of becoming overdone. I love slashed leggings and tights, oversized burnout tees, studs, feathers, lace, leather, fur, sequins, and platform heels. A great blazer or bomber jacket completes any outfit.

If someone came to you, struggling to find their fashion identity, what would be your advice?

I think the most important thing is to stay true to yourself. Sometimes even I make the mistake of wearing something just because I know it’s cute in theory, but I don’t feel like myself in it and therefore I’m uncomfortable all day. Wear what makes you happy! If you are struggling to figure that out, try to identify what you like on other people; save images from magazines and blogs and document what all of those styles have in common. Eventually that will help you mold your own style and you will know what to look for next time you’re shopping.

Do you have any last tips or advice for our 100% people readers?

Have fun with your wardrobe! Don’t worry about what other people have to say. Express yourself, and don’t be afraid to break the rules. If I only bought things that others told me were “acceptable” for fat girls to wear, I’d have an empty closet.

Thanks to Gabi for the fantastic interview, Gabi will be back with more fashion advice and great tips in the coming weeks for our A/W 09 monthly feature, watch this space and why not visit her blog; Young, Fat and Fabulous until the next time.