The past few days have been a whirlwind as I’ve tried to wrap my mind around what has happened. At 1.4 million followers, we were flying high, churning out content like a machine. Then Instagram decided to pull the plug, and we were left to twiddle our thumbs as the Instagram judge and jury determines our fate.
Working in fashion has never been easy for me. From the beginning, I was told that I wasn’t made for fashion, told ‘No’ more times than I could count, slept on bathtubs and crashed gates until I managed to create something I didn’t even realize the world needed: a platform where fashion lovers who didn’t fit into the traditional box could see themselves reflected in the screens looking back at them. We went rogue and did our thing with wild abandon, until the powers that be decided our time was up (for now).
Here are a few things I’ve learned:
1. Own Your Content
Instagram began as just a feed where you could share pictures, and has become a place where we post news, information, and style. You post your photos and captions and press ‘Share’ not knowing that none of your expertly curated content actually belongs to you. It can be erased just like that. Build a platform of your own where no-one can touch you.
2. You guys are a faithful bunch
I’ve received so many prayers, scriptures, and hallelujahs! You guys are a prayerful bunch and I know you will stick with us through this bump in the road. The kind words and scriptures have kept me going during this dark time.
3.If you Build it Once, You Can Build it Again
It took us several years to build @FashionBombDaily, but if we built it once, we can build it again! If the old page isn’t back up soon, we’ll have no choice but to rebuild from the ground up. Wouldn’t it be lovely if it just took us a couple weeks vs. several years to get back to our million+ strong following?
4. More People Care Than I Ever Imagined
I’ve received Whats App texts from Paris and Brazil, been vouched for by political pundits, and been supported by public figures. The influence of FBD is far reaching. It warms my heart to know that what we do every day has such a positive impact on individuals and our culture.
5. Everything is Gonna Be Alright
As the Ariana Grande song says (that I’ve been listening to since forever), We will Be Alright. I try not to get too attached to ‘things’ to fuel my sense of self…money, followers, or Instagram. It can all be taken away, and what remains is you. And you are amazing. Always remain faithful in GOD’s plan for you. Know that there are no highs without lows, and trust that GOD is clearing the way for something way better.
Thanks for your support.
Love & Light,
*For a day out in the A, I enjoyed lemon flavored popsicles in a dress by @Shop_Eshe, Isabel Marant Sandals, and a Hermes bracelet and belt. Bag is vintage Gucci!
