Girl of the Blogosphere: Nicole

First Name: Nicole

City: Terrigal, NSW, Australia

Occupation: online vintage store owner

Blog: Gary Pepper Vintage

What is your fashion philosophy?

To not dress for anyone but yourself. Once you stop caring about what other people may think, your style and confidence just come naturally.

Who is your fashion inspiration?

I wouldn't say I have one in particular, I am constantly inspired by the everyday girls I see whether it be on the street or online. I admire Japanese street style as it is always so effortlessly chic and perfectly executed, there is absolutely no fear with what they wear and that's hard to come by these days.

What is your favourite place to shop?

Well that's a given, opshops.

Why did you start Gary Pepper Vintage?

I started Gary Pepper because firstly, I am a vintage addict. Secondly, I was hoarding large amounts of vintage clothes that I had never worn but could not leave behind in the store for someone else to buy. It was a little bit selfish, I know. I realised that a lot of people either don't have the time to go opshopping or they don't know what to look for. I wanted to create an easy and memorable shopping experience for everyone and anyone and therefore, Gary Pepper Vintage was born. I knew I was always going to own my own vintage store but I just didn't realise it would happen so quickly!

Why do you love vintage clothes?

I fell in love with vintage clothes because it not only offers a creative outlet to express my personality through fashion but also because it meant you could walk down the street and there wouldn't be a girl ever wearing the same thing as you. Plus, I love vibrant prints and outrageous designs, two things that are impossible to find in stores these days.

Why did you start your blog?

I started my blog purely for self documenting. I wanted to look back in three years time and read what I was doing and what I was thinking. Knowing me I'll probably cringe and say "why did I write that!?" I'm surprised people actually take the time to read it at all so thank you!

What is your current favourite fashion trend?

I adore the tie dyed hair grunge look. If I had any other hair colour I would change mine in an instant. It looks like so much fun!

What is the current trend you dislike the most?

Ah, clogs! I don't care what people say, they didn't work in the 70's and they still don't work now.

How would you describe your style?

One part chic, two parts Japanese school girl.

What is the one thing you are dying to buy this spring?

A trip to New York and a YSL green aventurine stone ring. Amazing.

What is your favourite vacation destination?

Anywhere in the world with the people I love. Right now, take me to the Greek Isles, please.

Check out Nicole's blog and online shop Gary Pepper Vintage

Originally published 02/21/2010

Photos: GaryPepperVintage.com