Gabrielle Lacasse, who was one of the first bloggers in Quebec – or even in Canada- will mark the tenth anniversary of her blog, her brand, Dentelle+Fleurs this September. Gabrielle is one of Quebec’s most renowned fashion bloggers. With distinctive style, she takes us into her world where vintage and classic pieces are keys. We asked her a few questions to get to know her better. Here are her answers!
What inspired you to start your blog ten years ago?
I started it all out of passion, I literally started my blog on a whim actually. At the time, I was studying to be a teacher, and I needed to let go of my creative side. The idea of starting a blog then allowed me to share my looksand my photos. I had no idea that this would one day become my profession. As I am self-taught, I have learned by myself to do photography, editing, and more; it is as if my studies had awakened in me my love of writing. Besides, people often ask me what my blog means, but there aren’t really any meaning to it! It was a whim, really.
What obstacles have you encountered in the past years?
I’ve met so many of them! However, I would say that the fact that I had to learn to be a businesswoman was significant. I had always worked for others, but I discovered that entrepreneurship was innate to me. Many bloggers I was with at the time were not able to make the leap to the business side, so I’m happy to have that strength me.
Otherwise, I would say that with hindsight, I realize that I had to pave the way for the industry in Quebec. I was one of the first to tell companies that my time and my profession had value. I had to educate several companies here, because at the time, we were still inventing our business, even though the industry was much more developed in Europe and the United States.
What advice would you give to someone who wants to get into the world of blogging?
Many people go into the industry to receive products or have the chance to travel for free, but I think it’s important to do it for the right reasons, because you want to create content, for example. I would also say that it is important to remain authentic, that is the key. People feel it when you’re not yourself. This does not necessarily mean sharing everything, but rather respecting one’s beliefs and values. There are so many bloggers who go to Fashion Week with their Chanel handbag, do something else! Find your strengths, what sets you apart, and build on them.
How would you describe your style?
I like vintage pieces found in thrift stores, and I mix it all with more classic items. I like to add a quirky touch to my feminine style, it represents me well.
What are your favourite brands?
I like Tibi, Acne Studio, Opening Ceremony. Otherwise I love to discover small brands on instagram or elsewhere, like Ganni. I don’t look at designers too much though. If I like a piece I take it, no matter who’s the designer behind it.
What are your favourite beauty brands?
I’m a little fancy with makeup. I love Marc Jacobs, Chanel, or Bite Beauty, which is a Canadian brand. I like Lesse too, which is an organic label.
You recently launched a new online magazine called Gommage. Can you tell us about it?
It’s a platform that focuses entirely on beauty. I thought this was missing in Quebec, and I noticed that I get a lot of beauty questions on instagram. I needed a new challenge, a project, so the idea came to me. We talk about ingredients, answer questions about skin care, and we treat beauty, only beauty.
Is there a trend you would never wear?
Never say never. However, I must admit that I don’t really like the trends popularized by the Kardashian. Neon, contouring… Oh contouring, I would never do that! I don’t like to follow disposable trends, I don’t like to look like everyone else.
What would people be surprised to learn about you?
That I’m happy in the countryside. When I was younger, I was in the Scouts! I grew up not far from the countryside, it was part of my life, so even though I’m a city girl, I need to recharge my batteries. I sleep well in a tent, I like to go camping, and I can even try to make a fire on snow!
Are there other influencers who inspire you?
Yes! I’m an influenced influencer. I love Courtney Top from Always Judging, her style is very similar to mine. Otherwise I like to follow the model Lera Pentelute, also on instagram. On YouTube, I like to Jenny from Wear I Live, she talks about her life in an ecological and sustainable way.
Where do you see yourself in five years?
I am often asked this question, and I do not have the answer. The Internet is moving so fast and we have no control, so it is impossible for me to predict what will happen. I adapt to the changes of the web and I try not to have too many expectations. I ride the wave and when it ends for me, I can at least say that I will have taken advantage of it.
