This week’s feature is my friend, and Vancouver Fashion Blogger, Charmyn Chan. A dreamer at heart, Charmyn is the owner of Ko-morebi, a curated style and travel blog filled with dynamic photography and witty humor. As a Blogger and Photographer, Charmyn manages her time wisely, as she continues to complete her Bachelor’s Degree in Business here at SFU. When she’s neither studying nor blogging, you can find her working on an editorial at Rhea Magazine, or freelancing for companies overseas.
I was lucky enough to have a quick chat to ask her all about the blogging world, what it’s like, and how it all started for her. To learn more about the behind-the-scenes of her blog, Ko-morebi, as well as her social blogging tips, make sure to continue reading!
The basics
Name: Charmyn Chan
Hometown: Hong Kong
Currently studying: Business
Year: Entering third year
What we would like to know
What inspired you to start a fashion blog?
It started when I first came to Vancouver in 2012, the high school I previously attended had a strict uniform, so upon having free reign on what to wear I decided to experiment with my style. It didn’t occur to me what I wore deviated from the norm, however a stranger once said to me that I had a different way of dressing, and asked me if I had ever considered blogging. Synonymously my friend started a blog herself and suggested it to me as a creative outlet.
How did you decide on “Ko-morebi” as your blog name?
I think I spent three days thinking of a name. At the time I knew I wanted something not cliché, but at the same time had meaning. Ko-morebi means sunlight that filters through the leaves of the trees, and I chose it because I adore Japanese culture, and that the small parts of sunlight that came through the trees reflected my thoughts and musings. Nothing too obnoxious, but bright enough to captivate.
Do you ever just want to put on a sweater and a pair of leggings, and walk out your door?
I used to do that alot in high school. My go to outfit was a pair of printed leggings (galaxy print or whatever coloured pants I could find) and an oversized sweater (a favourite of mine was a Bart Simpson printed one). I’m not too picky with what I wear, but even when I’m running late I just find myself gravitating towards other pieces than leggings.
Have you ever been bullied for having a fashion blog?
I feel when it comes to social media and putting yourself out there, that there’s bound to be someone who won’t like everything you do. However, I do find myself struggling with negativity on social media. Initially I had difficulty learning how to deal with it in high school, but now that I’ve been blogging for a while I like to remind myself that whatever I put out is 100% me, and that what I create is for myself and not for the approval of others.
What is one piece of advice that you would give to a student who wants to start a fashion blog?
NIKE! Just do it! I’m a huge believer of people putting themselves out there, and if you want to share and create something go for it. I have also noticed that there’s a stigma where a lot of people are told to have the latest and most expensive of equipment to start with. But really if your content is consistent, genuine, and cohesive then your following will definitely support you. I started out with a Canon 550D and IPhoto when I got into photography, but as I slowly grew and developed my style I upgraded to Photoshop and just recently a full frame camera.
Have you ever been recognised by a stranger?
Yes I have. It’s flattering to meet followers and see them face to face! That being said I also suffer from a serious case of rbf so I do come off more intimidating than I actually am.
How do you plan on growing and expanding your blog?
Hmm that’s a tough one, I never created Ko-morebi with the sole intention of having a big following. I do agree though that numbers have an impact in social media. So right now I feel the best method is to keep producing work I personally like. Because with or without a following, I would want to create something I truly enjoy.
Have you met any popular bloggers throughout the years?
Yes. I find meeting other bloggers to be a fun experience because you get to learn from each other, that and it’s great to meet people who understand what you do and go through. At times though, it is easy to forget that what is on social media is purposely put there because we want you to see it. A person can be completely different from who they are online and in-person.
Who inspires you and why?
Some of my closest friends, especially since a majority of them are on social media too. However hands down my parents are some of the strongest people I’ve ever met, because they constantly remind me to pursue what I want and to always stand up for myself. That being said, inspiration comes to me based on an idea or concept I get depending on the story I want to create. I find locations to be the best way to start because it sets the tone, then I can think of styles that would pair well with it.
Thanks for chatting, Charmyn!