Kimberlee Van Der Wall
We had the chance to connect with the amazing fashion blogger Kimberlee Van Der Wall from I Have A Degree In This!, to discuss the influence of film on fashion, her plans for her upcoming blogaversary party and shopping in the children’s section.
Cut On Your Bias: What led you to begin your blog?
Kimberlee Van Der Wall: I attended the Fashion Institute of Design and Merchandising in LA and continued at LIM College here in New York City. I would get a lot of ridiculous questions about what I studied from people assuming that fashion students weren’t serious. For example, people would sarcastically ask if I was enrolled in classes with names like “Polka Dots 101.” I really wanted to put that myth to rest with I Have A Degree In This!
Cut On Your Bias: What do you like about Cut On Your Bias?
Kimberlee Van Der Wall: I love supporting up and coming designers. It’s a fun and interactive site that is easy to use. Fashion never gets boring to me so I really love that each time I visit, I feel inspired!
Cut On Your Bias: Which styles did you vote for at Cut On Your Bias in the Jane Oh collection, and why?
Kimberlee Van Der Wall: I voted for the skirt vs the shorts because I thought the skirt has a Mad Men feel. I opted for the biker jacket because that’s my style preference, and I went for the asymmetrical top because I thought it would be more flattering for more body types.
Cut On Your Bias: As a fashion blogger, what are your readers most interested in learning about, and where do you find that they are getting information aside from you?
Kimberlee Van Der Wall: I think my readers are interested in learning about how to translate looks from the runway. We all admire designer looks but can’t necessarily afford them. My readers also enjoy my nail art posts (haha). If they’re not reading my blog, then they are probably reading StyleCaster, Refinery 29 or other fashion blogs that I’ve recommended.
Cut On Your Bias: How would you describe your personal style, and is being petite a challenge when shopping? If so, how have you solved that challenge?
Kimberlee Van Der Wall: I’ve always been a tomboy. As I’ve gotten older, I’ve softened my look but still maintain some edge. I love skulls and anything studded! Being petite is definitely a challenge, but it forces you to be creative. You really need to know what works on you. I appreciate when stores have petite sections, and I even shop in the kid’s section sometimes.
Cut On Your Bias: Who are your favorite designers, and what do you think the upcoming trends will be?
Kimberlee Van Der Wall: That’s like picking your favorite child! I love them all and admire what they do. I really think the upcoming Great Gatsby film directed by Baz Luhrmann is going to have a major influence on fashion. Flapper styles have come in and out, but I think they are here to stay for Fall 2012 into Spring 2013.
Cut On Your Bias: What’s your dream outfit?
Kimberlee Van Der Wall: Oh that’s tough! I’ve always loved how sexy a woman looks in a suit. I’m having a vision for my upcoming blogaversary party of me in a white tuxedo pants with an ivory tuxedo jacket with black lapels. Red lipstick and retro hair to match – of course!
