spotlight: IFBcon

Last Wednesday, I attended the Independent Fashion Bloggers Conference at Milk Studios here in New York (I also went last September). IFBcon is a gathering of style bloggers and fashion experts that features informational panels, event sponsors and a forum for the blogging community. One of my favorite aspects of IFBcon is meeting some of my favorite bloggers and adding new ones to my bloglovin' list. This year, I was happy to catch up with Emijaa and meet a lot of bloggers, including Nicole, Odelia, Ely, Jessica, Casey and Alison. So great talking with you ladies!

[dress and watch: Fossil// vest: Free People// bag: Steve Madden// belt: Forever 21// tights: Uniqlo// heels: Beartcat Vintage]

What I learned from the panels this year:

Media Goes Mobile

• Have a unique voice, and eventually people will take notice.
• Always write what you would be interested in reading.
• Make connections through social media avenues you are comfortable using.
• Think about what you want to become.
• Your blog is your new resume.
• Broaden your horizons.

Your Blog, Your Dream, Or Just the Beginning?

• Establish credibility.
• Be transparent about your blog to your loved ones and employers.
• Don't forget to live life—put your computer away, turn off your phone, focus on your experiences.
• If you offer sponsorships, think about what you want for your blog as a brand. Be wary of companies that do not support your blog's purpose.
• Know what you're worth.

How to Make Your Blog Irresistible

• Your point of view is important.
• Drive your blog's traffic by seeing what works for you.
• Be innovative.
• Think about the value of every post. What will the audience gain from reading?

I loved the sponsors this year as well: ThinkThin Bars (one of my personal favorites...the only thing positive that came from my very short stint reading GOOP), ASOS, Zoya, J Brand, Arizona Tea and LifeBooker.

If you're a blogger in New York for fashion week (or a marketer interested in working with bloggers), I suggest attending IFBcon. You'll learn a lot, grab a bag of amazing sponsor goodies and meet a lot of wonderful people.