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Tatyana Vogt also known as Avo is an illustrator and lifestyle blogger. She has always loved drawing and knew at a very young age that she would be a professional artist when she grew up. With a love of all things super cute she recently launched an art brand called 'Love, Teacup Kisses' where she focuses on drawing over the top cute girls and other super cute things.Have you always been creative and artistic?
I guess you can say that, my whole life I have loved drawing. And ever since I could hold a crayon I was drawing away, and at a very young age I knew that I wanted to be an artist when I grew up. I did have a few hiccups over the years where my art took a back seat to my social life or other life events. But even then, art was always important to me.
How would you describe the style of your work?
Overall no matter what I draw there is always a slightly cute aspect to my style, but I recently divided my art into two branches. The first and original branch focuses on more whimsical painterly work and the new branch focuses on super ridiculously cute stylized work which i've branded 'Love, Teacup Kisses'. Because I just enjoy it so much I have been focusing on the overly cute stuff a lot more lately and I hope to be able to continue doing that.
What’s in your pencil case and what’s your favorite tool?
Right now my pencil case is jam packed with stuff because I keep tossing things in there to clear space off of my desk. lol. I've got colored pens, pencils, erasers, gel pens, highlighters, a pencil sharpener, a colored pencil, a brush pen, my wacom stylus and a sharpie..
My favorite tools really depend on what I am working on, but recently with 'Love, Teacup Kisses' I have been favoring my Copic Markers and brush pens.
Who is your favorite superhero?
Batman is the first name that pops in my head, I've always liked batman and I am also a big fan of the batman begins trilogy. Catwoman is also really awesome cause she is a sexy lady that kicks butt! Admittedly though anytime I do Batman Fanart, I usually draw Bat Girl because she is just fun to draw.
If you could have one super power what would it be?
I am a little bit boring, and practical when it comes to this question. Honestly I would want to be able to learn anything in one sitting and retain the information or skill forever. Because then I could pretty much learn anything and everything :)
Where do you look for inspiration?
Everywhere! A lot of artists will probably tell you this because its true. You might have your go-to things for inspirations but ideas sometimes come out of the most unlikely places like a funny joke between friends, a lyric in a song, a frame in a movie, a random story or even a pastry. Now when I am looking for inspiration I tend to look at photography on pinterest or flicker and I really enjoy looking at other artist's work to get me motivated when I am feeling uninspired.
Who are your favorite artists or comic book authors?
I would have to say that one of my favorite artist is Lindsey Campbell, I pretty much love ALL of her stuff. I also like Wishcandy, Mel Stringer and loll3.
By
KatieLikeMe
Indianapolis is a culture rich city chalk full of retail shops, unique restaurants and galleries. It's the perfect place for everybody!
We head to Hampton, Virginia to explore Suzy's cosy and organized studio where she sews and crafts.
"My favorite thing about my studio space is the natural light. The room is a corner room with 2 big windows. On sunny days the room is flooded with natural light."
Tell us about your space?
Any tips & tricks for organising supplies?
By
Delf
This week Dijana from Bells and Feathers recreates the look of musician and fashion designer Gwen Stefani:
Gwen Stefani was recognized as a style icon from the very beginning of her musical career, so it was no surprise when she started her own fashion line. Her style evolved throughout the years, but she somehow always manages to stay authentic and unique. She can pull off any outfit - from bare belly in her 40's (without looking tacky) to haute couture gowns. Also, thanks to her personality and edgy, playful style, she always appears younger than she really is.
By
Jessica N.
Outfit details:
- Top - Banana Republic
- Skirt - Handmade/Denyse Schmitt fabric
- Belt - vintage cia Greene Street Consignment
- Tights - Duane Reade
- Boots - Urban Outfitters
DIY Elastic Waist Skirt
Recreate the look with Jessica's Super Simple Elastic Waist Skirt tutorial:
How would you describe your style?
I would say that my style is a bit retro 70s mixed with 90s. I used to really be into the 50s/60s, more structured thing, but my style has definitely evolved into being more casual and more comfortable. I really can’t get enough of loose fitting, babydoll dresses in 70s colors and prints or jeggings and oversized shirts. I’ve started caring a little less about what things look flattering on me. Not that I don’t care at all, but it plays less of a factor in what I wear everyday lately.
What's your favourite piece in your wardrobe?
I feel like this is like asking me to pick a favorite child. It really changes daily, depending on my mood. I think my all time favorites would be a white lace mini dress from Free People and my Hunter rain boots (for practical reasons).
Who are your style icons?
I get most of my style inspiration from other bloggers and street style. I like seeing all of the different ways that real people style their outfits. I do love Zooey Deschanel and I get a lot of inspiration from 70s musicians like Stevie Nicks, Linda Ronhstat, and Robert Plant.
Do you have any favourite designers?
I really love Diane Von Furstenburg, A.P.C., and Orla Kiely. I think each of them represent different aspects of my style, even though they are all far out of my price range.
Where are your favourite places to shop for new clothes clothes?
I mostly thrift or shop at second hand stores like Buffalo Exchange, but I do love Free People and Modcloth. I also like to find smaller designers on etsy.
Do you make or customise your outfits?
I used to way more! I’m really trying to get back into sewing and making my own clothing again. It’s just hard to find the time with a full time job.
Do you have any great tips for mixing up and personalising an outfit?
The best tip I have is not to be afraid to wear whatever you want. Everyone will always put they’re unique spin on things, even if it’s subtle. Playing with patterns and colors is my way of doing this. I love mixing things that other people would never put together and having it come out really nice looking. Just have fun with fashion and don’t put too much stock in what you think everyone else is going to say about your outfit; they’re usually too wrapped up themselves to think about you anyway.
Which other fashion blogs do you love to read?
Oh hello, I’m Em. I’m the owner and artist behind Em Somerville Illustration, and I’m pleased to make your acquaintance. I juggle illustrating with a full time job in finance, working on a staff of four running an online community, and baking up a storm whenever I have a free moment. It helps that I don’t sleep.Have you always been creative and artistic?
Yes indeed! I bounce between making jewellery, crafting, baking, taking photos and drawing. I love unique fashion and music, reading and comic books. I've never been very career or academic minded, while I have done very well in both of those aspects of my life. My passion has definitely always been primarily in creativity and my silly doodles!
How would you describe the style of your work?
Cute, sparkly, creepy, weird, and a tiny bit magic. My art is imperfect - I double outline everything because I have shaky hands, but that's kind of my signature move.
What’s in your pencil case and what’s your favorite tool?
My pencil case is currently housing a tin of Graphite pencils, a kneaded eraser, a bunch of washi tape, a whole lot of different fineliners and black markers, and a plastic dinosaur. I can't live without endless black Copic 0.3 Multiliners!
Who is your favorite superhero?
I am allllll about Skeletor. Okay maybe he's more of a villain, my he's MY hero.
If you could have one super power what would it be?
Teleportation, no question. Imagine being able to travel anywhere in the world without having to save for months or worry about packing! An adventurer's dream come true. Next stop, Iceland please!
Where do you look for inspiration?
Anywhere and everywhere. I'm always wandering around taking photos of book covers, stationery and stickers. I take a lot of photographs of places and people too, and love to explore, which helps bring creativity. I draw a lot of characters from my favourite cartoons, TV shows and movies. Tumblr is also a huge source of inspiration, I follow a bunch of amazing artists and every time I check my feed I find myself grabbing a pencil and sketchbook two minutes in.
Who are your favorite artists or comic book authors?
I have way too many favourites to list, but the first few that come to mind are Mel Stringer, Lize Meddings & Natasha Allegri - while the three of them have very different styles, I feel like they all influence little aspects of my art!
The best about living in Mexico City is that, no matter where you go or what you do, it will always be an adventure. The people are so lovely and everywhere you look there are so many things that represent what Mexico is.
By
kittenhood
This week Daria from Kittenhood recreates the look of British style icon and fashionista Alexa Chung:
If I was ever to enter Alexa Chung's closet, I would probably faint on the spot. Her style is my absolute favorite, with all the feminine peter pan collars, babydoll dresses, Charlotte Olympia cat flats, her natural-looking hair and quirky nail art. I love that she also mixes in edgier accents, such as denim cutoffs, animal print and studs, and preppy essentials like button downs and blazers. Even though it sounds eclectic, it's actually very coherent and recognizable.
We're indulging our sweet tooth in Edinburgh, Scotland this week as we meet the masterminds behind Coco Chocolate and learn how to make their delicious Drinking Chocolate and Mandy's Amazing Rigo Jancs.
By
Imogen O.
Outfit details:
- Shoes - Mimco
- Skirt - Princess Highway
- Cardigan - DIY (see below)
DIY Sequin Cardigan
Recreate the look with Imogen's sequin cardigan tutorial:
How would you describe your style?
My style is feminine, dressy, colourful and vintage inspired. I love polka dots, rainbow stripes, pearls, bows, pretty dresses, sparkly cardigans, kitty cat print, unicorns and glitter so I try and incorporate these elements into my looks as much as possible. My signature look consists of a fit and flare dress in a bright colour or fun pattern, a hair flower and heels or ballet flats (with an embellished cardigan thrown in for good measure in the colder weather).
What's your favourite piece in your wardrobe?
This is a very difficult question because my wardrobe is my pride and joy! I’d have to say my genuine vintage dress from the 1940s. It’s pink with white polka dots and features an oversized collar, a purple velvet sash, a full skirt and ballerina length. It has a real princess feel. I wish I had more opportunities to wear it. It has so much history and character. I often think about the life my dress once had during the 1940s in the US; an interesting thought.
Who are your style icons?
My style icons are definitely other bloggers much more than celebrities. See my answer below for the fashion blogs that I read and which inspire me. However, if I was to choose a celebrity I’d say Taylor Swift. . While she is very beautiful and clearly interested in fashion, she isn’t totally obsessed with herself like a lot of people in the public eye. I believe this is a form of inner beauty; her classiness, self-worth and professionalism shine through and inspire me. In terms of fashion, I adore many of her timeless and vintage inspired pieces; one of my absolute favourites was her 1950s style yellow dress paired with red heels which was rather reminiscent of Belle from Beauty and the Beast. The time she wore white kitty cat shoes, made my already existing love for feline related fashion items, grow even more. I also love many of her sparkly pieces and she sure has worn a number of sparkly dresses over the years. I still adore her look all the way back from the 2009 Country Music Awards. I love how she often opts for timeless makeup, particularly the classic red lips. I love how she channels her curly hair but also experiments with straight hair (on occasion) and a myriad of stunning up styles. I was so inspired by her buns and cascading curls when choosing the hairstyles for my wedding party in 2012.
Do you have any favourite designers?
In terms of designers, I’m completely drawn to bags and shoes. My dream is to one day own a classic Chanel quilted bag. I also love Dior, Marc by Marc Jacobs, Kate Spade and Charlotte Olympia. The collections of Oscar de la Renta often capture my attention. I love the Spring 2014 collection. The ruffles, vibrant colours, bold patterns, beautiful silhuttes, embroidery work, eyelet details, full skirts and wearability are true features.
Where are your favourite places to shop for new clothes clothes?
My favourite places to shop for new clothes are the Australian stores Alannah Hill and Review. I wish I could own every single piece from all of their collections; they are a true representation of my personal style. I also like visiting their factory outlets and websites (www.alannahhill.com.au and www.review-australia.com). Dangerfield (dangerfield.com.au) and Forever New (www.forevernew.com.au) also have some good pieces. In terms of online shopping undoubtedly Modcloth is the best (http://www.modcloth.com/). It is always so reliable when it comes to finding that unique, creative and genius piece!
Do you make or customise your outfits?
I don’t make clothes because my sewing skills are very limited; I’ve made a couple of very basic skirts in the past but I wasn’t particularly happy with the quality of them. I wish I could make a dress. I see so many beautiful fabrics that I’d love to transform into dresses. This is my very long term goal. I’ve customised a number of pieces particularly cardigans. I often add sparkles, trim, embellishments and buttons. I love how it creates a personalised touch and adds so much to a look.
Do you have any great tips for mixing up and personalising an outfit?
In order to personalise an outfit it is important to develop your own sense of style. My number one tip would be to style yourself in a way which suits you and reflects your true personality as opposed to what the current trends dictate. For example, I have the same hairstyle and makeup most days. It’s become my signatory look and having a style which represents me provides a great sense of joy. That’s not to say your image should be entirely regimented; of course it’s fun to experiment with news trends as frequently as you desire. All I’m saying is if there’s a certain aspect of fashion which you love and which makes you, you, then go with it. In terms of mixing up an outfit, try and see your wardrobe as a set of interchangeable pieces. Some of the best outfits are created by pairing items which we wouldn’t normally expect to go together. A few of my favourite combinations- pink & red and stripes & florals would fall under this category.