Business, Q+A Arianna Schioldager Business, Q+A Arianna Schioldager

Finally, This Major Blogger Is Launching a Solution for This *Hush Hush* Beauty Issue

Say hello to Megababe status. 

photo credit: 12ish Style 

Boob sweat? Thigh chafe? Raise your hand if you’ve been there. Yeah, us too. And it’s why megababe Kate Sturino of 12ish Style is launching her Megababe product line. 

Determined to deal with the not-so-chic, but oh so relatable parts of fashion, Kate developed Megababe Thigh Rescue ($14) to deal with the issue. Forget men’s products. Forget rubbing Vaseline on your body. The fashion blogger took matters in her own hands. 

The deodorant-like stick, which is available for pre-order now, starts shipping on June 26th. Crafted with ingredients like aloe, grape seed oil to promote collagen production, lime oil for healing purposes, and pomegranate seed extract to protect the skin, it is a toxin-free formula that will keep skin happy, hydrated, and chafe-free. While you’re at it, Bust Dust, which is set to launch mid-July, is a ultrafine, 100% natural powder. Kate calls it the “final word on boob sweat,” because “talc is nasty stuff.”

We caught up with Kate to talk the sweaty motivation and why this is product you’ll want to pull out of your Chanel bag. 

Why launch a product line? 

I have been dealing with thigh chafe forever! And yet judging by the anti-chafe products out there, chafing seems to be reserved for men and athletes. I was sick of toting a men’s stick around in my handbag, and even worse was having to pull it out in front of people. Even though some of what’s out there does work, a lot of it is full of toxins and none of it is designed for me to pull out of my Chanel bag! And I was done wearing bike shorts under skirts -- the last thing anyone wants on an 80 degree day is another layer!

All I wanted was a non-toxic anti-chafe stick that would make me feel cute and not embarrassed. And year after year I couldn’t find it, so I decided to make it myself. 

Tell us about Megababe? 

Megababe was born out of a personal need for cute solutions to not-so-cute issues like thigh chafe and boob sweat. Start asking around and will you discover how many women of different shapes and sizes actually deal with these “hush hush” things. So many! I don’t know how or why there came to be a stigma around these very normal issues, but Megababe is here to say there’s nothing embarrassing about your thighs rubbing together or your boobs sweating on a hot day. We’re going to take care of it for you so you can get out there and live your life!

"Megababe is here to say there’s nothing embarrassing about your boobs sweating on a hot day."

Tweet this. 

Where can we buy it?

Exclusively at megababebeauty.com ; IG: @Megababe 

There you have it. Sweaty girls unite. 

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Career, Advice, Profiles Arianna Schioldager Career, Advice, Profiles Arianna Schioldager

The Top 3 Questions All New Bloggers Should Ask Themselves

We checked in with a top Miami-based blogger to find out.

photo credit: Blame It on Mei 

With a degree in graphic design and a masters in business admin, Mei Jorge, the Cuban-born blogger behind the fashion blog Blame It on Mei, had her pick of careers.  But the Miami-based fashionista shares that, "It is very gratifying to know that I can inspire women to look and feel their best no matter the price tag, age, lifestyle, or even personal circumstances. Even though I love graphic design and have had a lot of fun in that career, I have always been passionate about fashion."

For years she skirted around the suggestion from friends that she should start a blog. "I pushed that idea aside," she explains. "Only to find myself wondering 'what if' a few years later. I finally took that big step and I couldn’t be happier about doing so."

We caught up with Mei to talk the importance of design, why her style is steeped in the traditions of Latin women, and the three questions new bloggers need to ask themselves. 

How does your background play into your content? 

My feminine style is flavored with the traditions of the Latin women. In our culture, feeling sassy is intertwined with timeless style, and our days are bursting with vibrant colors and music. Because Miami is an extension of my Cuban background, it’s easy for the customs, colors, and cuisine to inspire my colorful looks. Even when I wear muted or neutral tones, I always add a pop of color. 

What is it about the Miami blogging scene that is different from the rest of the country?

Miami is such a dynamic and eclectic city. There is always something to do, a new place to see, or a new restaurant to try. Events like Art Basel and Swim Week have made the Miami fashion scene one not to miss.  And because of our coveted beaches, warm climate, and especially large blogging community, many brands choose it as their destination to host events or launch products.

Since you studied Graphic Design, how important is a logo? 

A logo is one of THE most important aesthetics of a brand. That is how your audience will visually identify you so I strongly suggest with a professional if you are unsure about where to start.

How much time did you spend designing your own site? And what are some tenets of site-building that you think bloggers should consider? 

Initially, I took a few days to research, design, add widgets, and customize it to my needs. I am always trying to improve it, which makes it an ongoing project. Because of my graphic design background, I obviously had an advantage. However, building a website is not only about the pretty aesthetics. Finding a good host, searching for the right customizable template, whilst also learning the ins and outs of your publishing platform, takes time. If you are somewhat savvy, you can try to build it yourself but even then it takes time. It will probably take more time than if you hire a professional.

How did some of your first partnerships come about? Did you reach out to brands with a media kit? Did they reach out to you?

Most of my first partnerships reached out to me directly.  At that point in my blogging journey, I was hesitant to reach out to any brand. After I gained some confidence and became member of a few blogging communities, I finally designed my media kit and reached out to some of my favorite brands.

How are you working to evolve your brand? 

My brand is an extension of myself, my style, and my personality. By being consistent, adding value to my content, and being relatable to my followers, I keep true to my mission; which is to inspire women to be confident in their daily lives.

"I keep true to my mission; which is to inspire women to be confident in their daily lives."

Tweet this.

photo credit: Blame It on Mei

What is the “big picture” goal for you as a blogger?

I would love to work with a large retailer to create and design my own line of clothing and accessories. As an influencer, this would be a huge accomplishment and the climax of the hard work and dedication I have put into my brand. 

Where do you think the blog/influencer world is heading?

The blog/influencer world is experiencing a growth phase that will eventually reach maturity. Currently, brands and influencers alike are learning that influencer marketing will become more meaningful in the years to come. This type of marketing will take over traditional mediums, it’s just a matter of time for brands who are not already aware, to grasp the concept.

What tips and tools are you using in your day-to-day to keep up with the changing world of social?

I try to keep myself informed, thus I am constantly researching the newest changes to the different platforms. But more importantly, I see what my audience responds to. At the end of the day, social media may change but I want to stay as loyal to my followers as they are to me.

"Social media may change but I want to stay as loyal to my followers as they are to me."

Tweet this. 

Are you utilizing stories on IG?

Yes, I am really enjoying it and so are my followers. It can be hard to connect to your audience with a still image, but through the Stories feature, your followers get to know you on a one-on-one basis. They get to relate to your everyday life and see that you are no different than them. 

If someone wanted to start a blog today, what are the top three questions you think they should ask themselves before they get started?

1.  What is the main reason why I want to start a blog? Be specific; do you love writing and want a book deal? Do you have an on-air personality and want to be on TV? Do you want to help others? 

2.  Can I commit to blogging consistently? Blogging is a very self-sacrificing career, but it definitely comes with very rewarding opportunities and experiences. But if you want to grow your blog, commitment is a trait you will need to possess. 

3.  Am I willing to work hard? Blogging is hard work. It takes many hours in a week to plan your editorial calendar, reply to emails, pitch to brands, be active in your social media channels, prepping for a photo shoot, among other tasks. But with dedication and commitment you will reap the benefits. 


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Nailing the Perfect Office to Party Ensemble with Kate Spade

With winter here, we're on the hunt for the best holiday outfits that not only work for the office, but also double up as a perfect holiday party ensemble. Y'know - anything that makes our hectic schedules even more convenient. Because who has time to leave work early, change, get ready AGAIN, and make it to the party on time?

With the bulk of holiday parties still ahead of you, we tapped some of our favorite fashion bloggers and business ladies to share boss babe party style looks from Kate Spade

THE ALL-IN-ONE with C&C FOUNDER JACLYN JOHNSON 

For the busy boss who doesn't have time to pull in multiple pieces, what's chicer than a jumpsuit? Maybe these heels? In black and gold, you can strut from office to party with bells (or in this case, pom poms) on your feet. 

On Jackie: Metallic Dot Jumpsuit, India Heels, Cameron Street Lane Bag

THAT'S A WRAP with PURSUIT OF SHOES FOUNDER ASHLEY TORRES

It's not just presents that are for wrapping this season. In a sparkling wrap dress, that can be paired with flats at the office and heels for the party, you've got this in the (cutest little black) bag.

On Ashley: Metallic Multidot Dress, Cameron Street Lane Bag

BLACK & WHITE & OH SO EFFORTLESS with  EFFORTLESS CHIC FOUNDER JEN PINKSTON

Black and white was made for busy bosses. When you don't have time to pattern match, you can get dressed for the day and night faster than you close those deals. Oh, and if it's a rooftop party,  you'll be stylish and cozy in a gorgeous tweed coat.

On Jen: Faux Fur Collar Tweet Coat, Poplin Ruffle Shirt, Abbie Pant, Anastasia HeelsCameron Street Lane Bag

BOSS PANTS NATION with JORDAN SANTOS 

Power babes in power outfits, with a few key accessories. In a high-waist pant and crisp white button-down, heading from your desk to festive drinks has never looked so good. 

On Jordan: Silk Alyssa Top, Shimmer Tweed Jacket, Cameron Street Lane Bag

THE LADY IN LILAC with NIKIA PHOENIX 

There may be songs about ladies in red, but this winter opt for soft colors like lilac because pretty pastel hues aren't just for spring. Go romantic and sophisticated. 

On Nikia: Jia Dress, Malerie CoatCameron Street Lane Bag

THE CASUAL CREATIVE with LILLIAN BABIAN, FOUNDER OF STUDS AND SAPPHIRES

Casual meets classic with a high waist denim and white button-down. Sometimes when everything is up in the air, you want something simple and sweet. And a monogrammed bag is the perfect addition to this classic look.

On Lillian: Malerie CoatPoplin Ruffle Shirt, High Waisted Denim

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