Beyond the hype // Rachel Lynch

Rachel Lynch is a 31 year old fashion blogger from new york city, United States. Visit her blog at ihateblonde.com.

Tell us a little bit about yourself and where you live.

I'm a full time fashion blogger living in New York City. 

What are your passions?

I love clothing, running and writing. I'm currently training to run in the NYC half marathon next month. Writing is probably the biggest part of my blog. I don't consider myself a regular "fashion blogger." I like to shot in a more editorial style and write a story to go along to it. Most of the posts on my blogs involve an adventure and a lot of emotion. 

How did you first become interested in fashion and why is it important?

The first time I got sent home from school for one of my outfits being "too wild" was fifth grade, so I think it was meant to be. (Me and fashion <3)  

How do you describe the fashion scene in New York compared to other major cities or fashion capitals?

New York is one of the most amazing fashion metropolises in the world. I feel like New York is the synthesis of West Coast and European fashion. We have it all here. It doesn't matter what you wear.

What do you love about living in New York?

You mean what do I not love about living in New York. 

Tell us your top 3 places to visit in the United States:

Chicago, New York and Pensacola.

Describe your personal style and its influences or inspirations.

I like to describe my style as "alien." This means I've usually got on sunglasses 2x the size of my face and boots bigger than my body. I like looking like a cartoon character so naturally, my inspiration pull a lot of animated characters. I love Arthur, disney characters and other various animations. 

What are your favorite designers and places to shop?

I love Nasty Gal, top online shopping destination for me.  I love Wildfox and UNIF, those are my two favorite designers. I also love Jeremy Scott and Karen Walker. 

The first thing you look at in another person's outfit is:

THE SHOES! 

What do you skimp on?

Socks and bags.

What do you splurge on?

Shoes, sunglasses and furs.

A fashion rule you always break:

I always wear no pants in the middle of winter.

A fashion rule you never break:

I think I break all the rules...

What do you think is the most recent notable trend to appear/reappear, and what are your thoughts on it?

Seeing a lot more bell bottoms lately which is super cool! They make your legs look long and lean! I think it's a fantastic look and am stoked to see it back around. 

What is the most underrated item in menswear and womenswear?

A really fantastic jacket. I see so many people settle for cheap jackets just to save on cost. I feel like an amazing leather or fur jacket is an essential and can dress up any look, especially during these colder months. 

Your favorite color of the moment is:

Black and white.

What is your next "must have" purchase?

Probably a bunch of Minimale Animale bikinis and one pieces! 

What is the ultimate showpiece in your closet?

Probably my collection of 30+ faux fur jackets. 

Are there any fashion icons or famous people whose style you admire?

I love a good Kate Moss look and Angelina, of course. 

What's on your iPod / bookshelf / movie list at the moment?

My iPod is currently mixing up Interpol, The National, Mike Stud and The Rolling Stones. I just currently got into the series, Girls (know I'm late) and last night I just stayed up late reading "Heavier Than Heaven," which is a biography of Kurt Cobain's life. It's hard to put down so far! 

What can't you live without?

My music.

Next place you want to travel to:

Most likely heading back to LA to see friends and shoot next month. After that, I'd like to get a cabin in Portland for a week and run the trails. In the summer, I plan on visiting London.

What is your personal favorite outfit on Lookbook by you, and by another member?

My favorite look of mine is probably this fashion week outfit because I die for a classy all white look! It reminds me of Marilyn Monroe! My favorite look of someone else's is probably this  because a look isn't just clothes, it's all about the hair + makeup and feeling of a photo. I love all the intensity that goes into this night look. 

In the year 2019, you will be:

Owner of my own business in a townhouse in the west village with two pomeranians and two baby girls. 

What would you say to someone seeking general fashion advice?

I would say, "Know yourself." 

Our last interviewee Mikko Puttonen wants to know: If there was a wildfire in your apartment, which clothes would you save from your closet if you could pick just three?

I would probably save my cotton candy faux fur coat and two pairs of black thigh-high boots. 

What should we ask the next interviewee?

If you could only pick three items to take to Paris with you for three days worth of looks, which three items would you bring?