Better Know A Blogger: Eline Coolen of Her Phoenix
"The limitations of the people in my environment inspired me to start a blog."
Often seen in towering Jeffrey Campbell heels and outfitted in an array of vibrant colors, Eline Coolen is the star attraction of her style blog Her Phoenix. The 20-year-old Dutch blogger catalogs her outfits at quirky and colorful locations through vivid photos then shares them with the world at large via the site. For almost two years readers have followed Coolen when she moved to Spain to take up temporary residence in Madrid as well as her recent move back to Amsterdam. With both relocations, her wardrobe and styling have evolved and there's a chance again at upcoming reinvention as she and her photographer partner ponder moving into a studio setting for future style portraits.
We talked to Coolen about the metaphor behind the blog's name, the key to any outfit and what it's like to step out of the style box in the Netherlands.
How would you describe your style?
Eline Coolen: My style is my personality. So to describe my style I have to describe my identity. It's rebellious, curious, dreamy, extreme and chaotic.
What led to you starting your blog?
The limitations of the people in my environment inspired me to start a blog. I grew up surrounded with people who judge everything that’s ‘different.’ Everything that’s different they try to change. They mentally jail people and prevent them to blossom. I know a lot of girls who wish to express themselves with their clothes but who are simply too afraid to stand out from the crowd. I wanted to make a blog, post my personal style, to inspire people to be braver in their own style decisions. I wish to get the reaction; hey she wears something different and can pull it off so why can’t I? My ultimate goal is to create freedom for everyone. Releasing the fear of rejection and judgements.
How did you choose the name?
My blog name is Her Phoenix. The ‘her,’ stands for me, representing the Phoenix. The phoenix symbolizes rebirth, power and inspiration. The Phoenix is pure, true to herself and free of limitation.
How would you describe your readership?
I think my readers are curious and sceptical looking for some kind of fashion inspiration.
Your photos are very vibrant. How do you choose the locations? How long do you spend on each shoot?
I can ride my bike, sit in a bus or car and suddenly see a location and think; that is going to be the next place! But sometimes I just walk around the city, enjoying the weather, letting it flow and then I will bump into the the location. The shoot does take a lot of time because I'm a perfectionist regarding to photos. But editing takes way more time. I can sit hours and hours behind my MacBook, readjusting colours, etc.
What influences your style?
Everything that comes in my life has influence on my style. New experiences, new music, new art, new people, new cities, new books, new series, new movies. All these aspects can change my taste in clothes.
No outfit is complete without... confidence.
How would you describe Netherlands fashion?
Most Dutch people have an attitude toward clothes as — act normal.... then you're being crazy enough. Not a lot of people can appreciate funky, crazy, different and provocative clothing. But there are a lot of phoenixes flying around in Holland though, who are rebellious and have their own unique way of dressing. I love and respect them so much.
What have been your favorite opportunities to come your way through the blog?
The opportunity to grow and evolve as a person. The opportunity to share my passion and creativity with people who appreciate and understand me.
What are your ambitions outside of the blog?
I want to make my passion into my work. I study advertising, marketing and communication and I see myself working for a fashion PR agency and in the long hall for my own clothing brand.
What do you do when you're not blogging?I'm spending time with my lovely, lovely friends, watching [TV] series and movies or checking other blogs and tumblr.
What are three posts from your archives from the beginning to now that new readers should view?
• Give me the right pair of shoes. And I will conquer the world.
