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Erika Marie–part-time stylist, part-time blogger and full-time fashionista from North Carolina–knows a thing or two about standing out from other fashion devotees flooding the blogoshere. Recently, Erika was kind enough to sit down for an interview and fill me in on what inspires her, her current fashion lusts and what’s in store for her classic-meets-casual blog, Fashion Chalet.

Q: How long has Fashion Chalet been around? Why did you start your blog?

A: I started Fashion Chalet in January 2008. Between August and September of 2008, I became more active in updating the site with personal outfits; the site launched with just my old MySpace collages and pictures. All of my life I took pictures of the things I wore. It became a hobby, and is now like a part-time job, in a way.

Q: How has your style evolved since starting Fashion Chalet?

A: I’ve let go of a lot of color. I’m leaning more and more to the basics, a little more classic; I got rid of the more trendy clothes. Now I am more basic, while before I was all over the place; I’m more structured.

Q: Who are your style icons? Where do you get style inspiration?

A: Audrey Hepburn! I like a lot of what Mary-Kate and Ashley Olsen wear and Sienna Miller, as well. A lot of the blogs I follow post inspiring photos and I think they seep into me subconsciously. I’m also inspired by old movies and music–and pieces of clothing; I’ll look at a piece and think, “How can I wear this today?”

Q: What are some of your favorite blogs to visit? What do you think sets one fashion blogs apart from another?

A: Studded Hearts, Fashion Canvas, It’s Our Hell and Little Plastic Horses are some of my favorites. Updating often and staying true to yourself [makes a good blog]. Stick to what you like. Have your own niche, your own signature. There weren’t as many fashion blogs when I started Fashion Chalet, and there have been so many new bloggers since then that have given me much inspiration.

Q: What’s your day job?

A: I’m a part-time freelance writer, and I do some styling on weekends; I help on photo shoots and work with personal clients. I’ll help client who are going on a cruise or to a specific event, for example.

Q: Who does the photography for Fashion Chalet?

A: My husband. What started as a hobby is becoming a part-time job for him!

Q: Where do you see Fashion Chalet in 5 years? Where do you see yourself in 10 years?

A: I hope to continue styling and writing. I hope Fashion Chalet opens bigger doors for me in the future.

Q: What are you currently coveting?

A: DG suede wedges, skinny jeans with zippers (I still haven’t found the perfect pair), more fur jackets and coats and a cool hat.

Q: How would you describe your personal style?

A: Classic, with a bit of boho and a touch of grunge.

Q: Do you ever think about your audience when choosing outfits for Fashion Chalet?

A: I dress in what I feel like wearing. I do get a lot of comments to see me in more jeans or more color, so those influence me sometimes–but usually I get inspired on a whim.

Images via Fashion Chalet