Better Know A Blogger: Laura Ellner of On the Racks
Running for two and a half years, On the Racks serves as personal style showcase for Lower East Side resident Laura Ellner. Ellner founded the blog as a means to an end when her day job wasn't providing her with the creative outlet she craved. Since its start, she's garnered readers, acclaim and collaborations based off the back of her trend-setting outfits that combine a mix of prints, high-end labels, vintage finds and accessories. Having moved east from the foggy streets of San Francisco just this February, typical photos can find Ellner posing on the streets of New York mailing the quintessential image of a stylish New York twentysomething. We talked to this recent Big Apple transplant about her style sense and how the move from the west coast to the east coast has impacted her closet.
How would you describe your style?
Laura Ellner: Eclectic and a little bit edgy. I like to mix affordable and/or vintage pieces with an occasional designer splurge.
What led to you starting your blog?
I needed a creative outlet from my 9 to 5 job where I could say whatever I want... Once I started blogging, I was instantly hooked!
How did you decide on the name?
When I started the blog I had planned for it to be about drinking and fashion. OnTheRacks...kind of like "on the rocks." It has since evolved and become mostly style focused, with an occasional booze-fueled adventure.
What influences your style?
So many things — fashion magazines, street style, and New York City to name a few.
What are your favorite trends of the moment?
Loving all things simple, light and breezy. My go-to is a printed sundress with a pair of sky high stilettos, and some statement accessories.
You're digging the '90s right now. What appeals to you about the fashion of the decade? How would you sum it up?
I think of '90s fashion as very...quirky. I dig a little quirk.
What's your favorite '90s movie in terms of wardrobe?
Going to have to vote Clueless on this one.
How would you describe NY fashion?
I love it! People are super creative and not afraid to wear what they want.
Has the move from SF to NY changed your wardrobe? If so, how so?
Definitely, in the sense that I now have to deal with more extreme weather. San Francisco is a consistent '60ish degrees year-round, and in NYC I have had to adapt to a real winter and summer! I love having the opportunity to mix things up a bit.
What have been your favorite/most-notable opportunities to come your way through the blog?
I have had the pleasure of teaming up with some of my favorite brands on various projects — some of them include Rebecca Minkoff, StyleCaster, Forever21 and Gucci, to name a few!
What are your ambitions for the blog? How about outside of the blog?
The blog has always been a great side project that pushes me creatively. In addition to this I have worked in fashion marketing for several years. Currently I am Interactive Marketing Manager for PLV Studio, where I handle social media, blogger relations and e-commerce for shoe and handbag companies Pour La Victoire and Kelsi Dagger. I just want to keep learning and growing as a professional in the industry.
What do you do when you're not blogging?
I usually hang out with my pup, Lola, shop, or try out new restaurants and bars in the city!
What is a post from your archives that new readers should view?
My all-time favorite post is "Tomorrowland." It was just really fun to shoot in the middle of nowhere. Aside from that it's tough to pick favorites!
