A wise woman once said, “Everyone in New York walks around like they invented it,” and if you’ve been to the Big Apple, you know there is some truth to that statement. Well, we’d like to argue that it takes an even bigger person to invent yourself in New York City, and that’s where we find our admiration for Alicia, the lovely lady behind the chic blog Cheetah is the New Black.
We first became familiar with her while she and her blog resided in Northern California, and it’s been exciting to watch her casual, West Coast elegance seamlessly mesh into New York City. Her style is at times formal and other times completely casual, edgy, classic or in between – really, a touch of Alicia seems to go with everything and we may dare to say that Alicia is the new black. Naturally, we’re extremely excited to share an exclusive interview with her on our blog, as well as a few snaps of her way wearable outfits for the pinning. Read on!
Where are you from and where do you live now?
I’m originally from Northern California (Chico) but am currently living in New York City.
Your blog name is really self-explanatory – you love cheetah! Why, and is there any reason this came to be?
I’ve always been drawn to cheetah and leopard prints (it’s such a fun, happy and bold print and a great reflection of my personality), but around the time I started my blog my obsession was at an all time high.
What are your favorite eats in New York?
Gosh there are way too many amazing eats in New York to answer this! I do however keep coming back to: Buvette, Bubby’s (for brunch), Market Table, Aria, L’Artusi… and the list goes on.
How would you describe your style?
My style is constantly evolving but I’d say it’s a mix of feminine and edgier pieces. I love leather as much as I love girlie dresses or skirts. It really just depends on my mood and what’s currently inspiring me.
A lot of ladies dream of making a move to the big city. How did the opportunity arise for you, and was it smooth sailing the whole time, or did it take some adjusting?
I’ve always dreamed of living in New York City but honestly wasn’t sure if I could do it. I was actually upstate for the first 9 months while my husband finished graduate school and his current job brought us to the city. It wasn’t exactly smooth sailing (moving never is) but I love our neighborhood and it’s been a fairly easy adjustment since I’d visited NYC numerous times and previously lived in San Francisco.
Blogging, Facebook, Twitter, Tumblr, Instagram, Pose, Pinterest – Whew! There’s no question that social media and being a fashion blogger go hand in hand. Where do you think blogging and social media are going next? How do you manage to stay on top of it and have a life?
I’m not quite sure where blogging and social media will go next but I hope to evolve my blog, stay true to myself and to keep inspiring my readers. And finding that balance has definitely been a learning process. Blogging while juggling a 9 to 5 or other freelance side projects has been difficult at times, but it’s all been such a fun and inspiring ride!
What are three things in heavy rotation in your closet right now?
My Rag & Bone boots, Vince leather jacket and my Phillip Lim satchel.
What are three things you wish were in heavy rotation in your closet right now?
I’m dreaming of wearing Phillip Lim’s entire fall collection.
I think a lot of readers wonder if their favorite bloggers work in fashion as their 9 to 5s (if they aren’t blogging full-time). May I ask if you do?
I quit my 9 to 5 job when I moved to New York last year (I was actually working at an investment firm) and have been fortunate enough to blog and style full time ever since. I’m so thankful; it’s been such an exciting/inspiring year.
What’s one piece of advice you’d like to share with our readers?
I would highly encourage anyone to follow their hobbies and dreams. I started my blog on a whim almost 3 years ago and it has been such an amazing journey. You never know where passion and dedication will take you!
Thank you for your time, Alicia!
Images provided courtesy of Cheetah is the New Black
About Sarah
Recent Comments