Creator Spotlight: Fashionably late with Sabrina Tan (@gypsytan)
Over a short span of two years, fashion enthusiast, Sabrina Tan, went from posting #ootd ensembles to becoming a phenomenal blogger and social media influencer under the persona of @gypsytan. Her 64k and growing followers turn to her for fashion tips because she effortlessly embodies what it means to be chic and comfortable while living in the often chilly city of Seattle. Her page also explores tips on traveling, beauty, recipes and even interior design. She was kind enough to take a break from slowly dominating the world to discuss her style, building her brand and clearing any misconceptions about the influencer marketing industry!
What got you into blogging/Instagram and how long have you been doing it for?
It all started on Instagram – I started posting mirror #ootds and lots of #armcandy shots just because I have always had a love for fashion and photography. I naturally started to get a following and got lots of requests to start a blog. Honestly, I never even read a blog post before I started mine in 2014. It was just a hobby and I never imagined it to become what is now… and I still have so much room to grow!
How do you describe your style?
I would say generally it’s a combination of edgy style with a bohemian-chic and laidback sensibility. Comfort is of the utmost importance! I have to be comfortable, and I have to feel like me. I love layering, accessorizing, and mixing high-end with budget friendly items.
Who are your fashion icons and why? (Could be anyone: other creators, family, celebrities)
I love Nicole Richie’s style. She can rock a boho-headband, a red carpet look or just a casual jeans-and-tee for a day out with her kids, and look ultimately chic. I love that she is just being her and it shows through.
What factors matter most to you when you’re building your profile/brand?
I never skimp on my brand, and that means I always make sure to have top quality posts. Pumping out shitty content doesn’t do me long-term good—it only hurts my readership, because building on my brand is about creating a persona that people are attracted to. Quality over quantity!
How do you build long-lasting relations with the brands you’ve worked with?
My 3 most important tips to keeping those relationships are:
- Communication: Taking the initiative to be keep them informed will ensure a good relationship. Also make sure to return emails in a timely matter.
- Quality Content: Creating high-quality images and organic-content is key!
- Outreach: Just because you don’t hear back doesn’t mean they don’t want to work with you again. It’s your job to be a go-getter so don’t be afraid to reach out to brands you have worked with to see if they would like to work together again.
What advice do you have for those who are just starting out or thinking about it?
Think about where your passion lies, find your voice, and keep it all cost! It’s hard not to get caught up in trends but for me the most important part is always staying true to yourself. Don’t start wearing something just because it is trendy, people can see through it. I mean don’t get me wrong, I love following trends but I am not driven by it. Never loose sight of the reason why you blog and why people follow you in the first place.
What are some common misconceptions you’ve heard about influencers? Any advice on how to handle those misconceptions along with other criticisms you believe influencers face daily?
The biggest misconception is that being ‘paid’ with products is good enough. Let me bring this new pair of shoes to the store to trade for some groceries. Laughable right? Hours and hours of work go on behind the scenes to produce quality content that bring them sales. They wouldn’t pay their models or employees with clothing /shoes/makeup so why are influencers different? It’s a job and it is really annoying when brands say they don’t have a budget. My advice is to respectfully communicate to brands, that as a professional, you charge for your time and hard work in crafting content for the campaign collaboration. Go into detail about the value you can bring to the brand and work with their budgets if necessary.
Lastly, since it is the Holidays, what or who are you most grateful for?
I am most grateful for my Instagram-boyfriend, Leif. He knows all the angles to capture my perfect #ootd ;) In all realness, he is truly amazing in so many ways. I have never met a more thoughtful guy than him and he supports me in all aspects of life!
@gypsytan x The Zoe Report Collaboration