Have you ever wondered what it takes to be a style and beauty blogger? It's takes more than just a passion for fashion.
With so many perspectives out there, it can be difficult to get noticed—let alone make a living out of it. But Nashelly Messina is one such blogger who is living the dream.
Her blog, Fabulatina, sets itself apart with beautifully crafted street-style images accompanied by elevated beauty and fashion content in both English and Spanish.
It has garnered Nash a legion of followers, partnerships with brands like Target and Univision and has had her featured in publications like People Style Watch, People En Español, Cosmo for Latinas—and now E! Style Collective!
We asked the style maven to share with us a little bit about how she's maneuvered her way toward being a successful style blogger.
Where are you from?
Born and raised (most of my life) in NYC.
Tell us a little bit about growing up.
My best childhood memories are from the eight years I spent as a child in the Dominican Republic. Growing up on a tropical island made me fall in love with the ocean; I'm the happiest when I'm on a beach.
Tell me about the first time you noticed makeup/fashion or the concept of makeup/fashion. What about it sang to you?
I grew up surrounded by women. I remember hearing my mom and aunts talk about their outfits for an event for weeks leading up to it. As a Latina, vanity weaves into our culture. The women in my family never stepped a foot outside without makeup, and I loved watching them put it on. I couldn't wait to grow up just so that I could wear makeup.
What was your first job?
My first job was at a women's shoe store called Wild Pair. My paycheck was always spent before I got paid.
What doubts did you have about moving forward with your chosen path?
Going on your own and trying to build a brand can be intimidating and scary. I contemplated quitting my day job for years before I took the plunge. I worried about money, how people would respond to my work, etc…
What would you tell your younger, just starting out self?
To stop worrying! It all works itself out.
Your brand roster is really exciting. Tell us about the first time you got "that call." You know the one, where you knew that all of your career choices up to that point were validated.
I've had so many wonderful opportunities to work with amazing brands and publications over the last two years. But the one that really made me pinch myself was when E! reached out about being part of the E! Style Collective. I'm a huge fan of the brand and to be part of the E! family has been a dream come true. And it's only the beginning!
What has been the most recent situation where you got a "that call?"
Ahhh, there's a new one that I can't talk about just yet. It's with a major publication that I LOVE. I was in a car with my husband and I couldn't stop hitting him. I hit people when I get excited. Gently.
What is a trend that you're happy isn't joining us in 2015?
Birkenstocks. Not sure why it was ever a trend. Fugly.
Whose work blows your mind and why? Fashion and or beauty.
I'm obsessed with J.Lo's makeup artist Mary Phillips. I need her to touch my face! Just touch it.
What makeup or fashion look, film, music video, etc. would you have loved to work on?
I would've loved to have collaborated with Patricia Fields on every season of Sex and The City.
Whose Instagram account do you heart up most lately?
I love my girl Natalie Off Duty. She's the coolest and every picture on her account looks effortless. She's a fun one to follow.
What about style has you so obsessed?
Everything about spring fashion gets me very excited—so happy one shoulder dresses are back! I love gingham and am so ready for head to toe white.
With a busy schedule, how do you stay current?
I can't believe I'm admitting this—social media.
What are some misconceptions about being a style blogger that you've come across by people?
That we get everything for free. I wish. Not true.
How has your style evolved in the last two years even?
It's ever evolving. Two years ago I was working in the corporate world, so a lot of sheath dresses and definitely a more buttoned up styles. Lately, I'm all about comfortable-chic. It's the only way you can get around NYC. Lots of jeans, they're so easy to dress up or down.
What would you have like to accomplish by the end of this year?
Television.
What is your nighttime skin care regimen?
I cleanse, tone, serum, night cream and eye cream. It's a process, but so worth it.
Ideal weekend off?
Beachside, reading a great book. Definitely with my hubby.
What is the scariest thing that you've ever done?
Quit my day job. Letting go of the one career I worked so hard to build.
Can you tell me any embarrassing style mishaps?
Peeking Spanx. Does that count? I'm not embarrassed to admit I wear them, but to have them peek out of my dress during an entire evening? Not so bueno.
What is your favorite part of your makeup process and why?
Concealer. My dark circles are out of control, so it's the first product I apply where you can see a transformation. Sigh of relief.
What is something people would find surprising in your makeup kit?
That I love cream-based products. I get lazy sometimes and just want to use my fingers for makeup application.
What's your go to Starbucks drink?
Unsweetened iced coffee.
If you were going to write a book about your life, what would it be called?
Ay Dios Mio.
What's your theme song?
"(I've Had) The Time of My Life"
Who is your best friend?
My mom.
Who do you sing in the shower?
I don't sing in the shower. But I talk to myself, does that count?
Are you on the dance floor or the one watching?
Dance floor, baby!
What's your favorite part about you?
My curves.