Dóchas-Faisean: Blog Spotlight: zestes de mode

I think it's so important to glean from other people...their ideas, inspirations, creativity; what makes them come alive! I love just sitting down and listening to people talk about what their passionate about, and what inspires them. I have chosen to live with the concept that every single person on this planet has something valid and important to say, and I can certainly learn from everyone of them. So, I've decided to feature different artists on my blog once a month...fashion bloggers, photographers, artists etc. I think we are all artists in some form or fashion, so it might even be something or someone that you wouldn't naturally consider an artist, who knows.

Alas, this month I chose to start off this new idea with featuring the one and only Melissa Burriss, the creator of zestes de mode; an amazing fashion blog full of inspiration and creativity! (follow her, you won't be disappointed!)

Melissa not only runs zestes de mode, she also writes for the DC Examiner (go here to read her fashion articles). She is full of insight, while getting straight to the point, something that I appreciate so much. I can read one of her articles or blog posts and know I am going to get "her" opinions, not simply just information thrown out at me. I think that is an incredible ability of hers; to express herself uniquely instead of being tainted by the industry.

I had the honor of asking Melissa a few questions, so here it goes! Enjoy :)

What is your current fashion obsession?
My current fashion obsession.. hmm. Sometimes I feel like I am all over the place with my style. Right now, though, has to be the Jeffrey Campbell fall lookbook. I want to own every pair (hint, hint)! If you haven't seen it, shame on you!

What made you want to start a fashion blog?
Boredom.. haha. Well, really, I wanted to express myself and share inspiration with my followers. Last summer, when I started it, I had more free time on my hands than usual. Also, I knew it would come in handy when I was studying in Paris and traveling. Here is a quote that I included in my first post on my blog -- To accomplish great things, we must not only act, but also dream; not only plan, but also believe.

What/whom has been the biggest inspiration to you in the world of fashion?
Tough question. Street style has always resonated with me, and I can’t go a day without looking at all my favorite blogs. With the changes in technology, blogs have become a major part of the fashion industry. People used to see the latest news in the industry on magazine covers, but now it’s all over the blogosphere. I can find the greatest inspiration by following blogs and seeing bloggers’ styles. Forget magazines, I turn to blogs.

Where do you see fashion heading in the future?
I feel like fashion will always have the same cycle. It repeats itself, and I honestly don’t think that will ever change. That is why we see all of those crazy styles our moms used to wear coming back. And everyone says, “who would have thought?” Well, that’s fashion. Trends will always be there, for us to choose to follow or just simply ignore. It’s finding yourself and personal style in the midst of all the changes that is important.

Any advice for those desiring to get into the industry or begin a fashion blog?
I remember hearing that the fashion industry is all about making connections, and it’s totally true. So.. network! Find out what you really want to do, but don’t be afraid of trying something you didn’t think you would be interested in. You may end up loving it. Remember not to follow, but rather lead. Be different. Most importantly, be yourself.