Blogger Spotlight: Emily Johnston, Fashion Foie Gras

Fashion Foie Gras was founded in 2009 to make fashion news more accessible on a daily basis. Editor Emily Johnston has contributed to several publications including The Huffington Post, Cosmopolitan and Stylist Magazine. Fashion Foie Gras provides regular style updates from Emily, as she personalises the latest seasonal trends, from styling sneakers with floral dresses to pairing rock t-shirts with luxury Marina Rinaldi jackets. In this spotlight Emily chats to us about working with big brands such as Currys PC world, why she loves working with PRs, mastering social media, and turning blogging into a full-time career. 

What’s new on FFG? Well, I just finished a really exciting project with Currys PC world and Microsoft talking about technology and being an entrepreneur – a true passion of mine as I believe technology has opened so many doors for those with a passion. I’ve also really reworked the blog content in recent months to speak about everything in lifestyle with a strong fashion edge. I like to think it gives a more rounded approach to being a consumer in this fast fashion world.

How do you measure the success of your website? By the readers. I am so lucky that I have amazing readers that have been with me from the beginning. As long as they are still emailing, commenting on social and generally sticking with me, I feel pretty blessed. There are so many content streams out there at present so I feel pretty blessed to be included in people’s lives.

What advice would you give to someone who wants to start a blog? Hard work will get you everywhere. If you don’t want to work hard don’t bother putting your hat in the ring.

How do you work with marketers and PRs? Very closely. Not kidding. My wedding will most likely star who work in PR, that have also become best friends over the years. Honestly though, I love working with the industry to help spread the news on what’s new and noteworthy and PRs are an important part in gathering that information. I’m easy and casual. If you have something interesting, I’m all ears.

How do you use social media to promote and share content? What are the challenges? 

I feel like social media is about taking your “rant” and turning it into a conversation. I write and then spread the concept through social media and a one man band becomes a full orchestra.

My biggest challenge is in keeping up with all the platforms!

What can PRs do in working better with you? Realise that “dear blogger” is the worst possible way to start an email relationship.

What has been your blogging highlight? Making it a full-time career. I’ve been able to see so much and work with such cool people over the years and the fact that I get to call that “work” will always be the highlight for me.

What will be big in your blogosphere in the coming months? Instastories.

Will you be attending LFW, if so, what are you looking most forward to? This is my first season in 14 that I am not attending. I’m concentrating more on fashion now and keeping an eye on catwalk pics but letting someone take my seat this year. I’m watching from afar.