To some, fashion blogging is a foreign idea, but to others, it is a way of life.
Katie Knell, junior in apparel merchandising, shows her love for life and fashion on her blog, "Lady K."
"Part of it was a calling to do it," Knell said. "To combine the fashion world and the Lord."
Knell said she started the blog Jan. 1, and used her high school nickname as the title.
She said she was inspired by her grandmother's love for accessories and thankful for how her mother educated her about fashion.
"I am a very organized person and there were months of prep work behind it," Knell said.
On her blog, Knell shares outfits complete with stylish accessories and hairstyles, but she also uses her blog to influence the fashion world.
"It can be such a materialistic place, but it really is an extension of who (God) is and his creation," Knell said.
Knell said she wants "Lady K" to be "a place that is a vulnerable approach to life and fashion."
While she uses her external influence from her blog, she said it has caused her to look inward.
"I think it has brought out a lot of the sin I was avoiding before," Knell said.
According to Knell, her blog keeps her "continually evolving" and creatively flowing. However, she said juggling life as a student and blogger is challenging at times.
"There are weeks when I am so creatively stimulated, but logistically, your schedule won't allow it," Knell said. "I try to stay ahead of the game."
Knell said she believes her hard work will benefit her in the future. For instance, Knell said she has made a number of connections through "Lady K" with photographers and company Like To Know It, which connects bloggers to professional retail.
"I am trying to apply what I am learning in a tangible way," Knell said. "I hope it shows that I took initiative even as a student."
Knell said she hopes to monetize her blogging in order to travel and expand her resources in order to improve "Lady K."
Knell said she represents Auburn in her blog by "reflecting the Auburn community by applying what (she) is learning" as a student.
She said she encourages people to go above and beyond their limits and to be bold with fashion.
According to Knell, her perfect outfit is "anything that's all black with some killer shoes."
Karla Teel, associate professor in the department of consumer and design sciences, said she loves the "Lady K" blog, as well as Knell's outfit choices.
"I think it's very simple, but very visual," Teel said. "She does a really good job of pulling it all together and creating a cohesive look."
According to Teel, Knell's work exemplifies the program's hopes for students.
Teel said she tries to produce well-rounded students familiar with the industry.
"We encourage students to do whatever they are comfortable with," Teel said. "It shows employers that our students have knowledge and are good at it."
Teel said she is proud of students, such as Knell, who represent Auburn and work hard to achieve their dreams.
"Not everyone takes it upon themselves to do extra work," Teel said. "She has taken it upon herself to go above and beyond."
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