Spotlight: Merritt Beck

Today, I’m excited to debut a new series on Taffeta & Tulips called Spotlight.  The idea behind Spotlight is to feature exceptionally talented and unique bloggers that inspire and captivate us with their strong fashion sense, their keen eye for detail and their witty way with words.  So, naturally, the first person who came to mind was Merritt Beck, the founder and curator of The Style Scribe. Merritt strikes the perfect balance between quintessential girl next door and sophisticated fashion maven.  Her effortlessly chic style is both relatable and attainable (I love the way she mixes high and low)….oh, and did I mention that she’s super sweet as well?  Merritt was so gracious and prompt in responding to all my questions which covered everything from her personal style, her favorite places in Dallas and her advice to aspiring bloggers.  So, without further adieu, read on for the full interview and be sure to follow Merritt on Instagram, Twitter, Bloglovin and Pinterest.

1. What was the inspiration behind your blog and how did you come up with the name?

To be perfectly honest, the blog was created out of boredom. Back in college I worked at a local magazine under the fashion editor and really enjoyed my work there. Once I graduated college however, I went straight into marketing (not fashion-related) and after a couple years I just got bored. I started the blog as a creative outlet to talk about my personal style, favorite trends, etc like I did when I worked for the magazine. I admit this with a tiny bit of shame, but my original blog name was Manolos & Martinis! After about a year I decided I had outgrown the name and thought I should come up with something a little more elevated. That is when The Style Scribe was reborn.

2. Take us through a typical work day as The Style Scribe…  

Since I recently quit my full-time job to the focus on my blog, it’s been a fun adjustment working from home. I’m quite good at keeping a schedule. Every day is different! Some weeks are filled to the brim with meetings and local fashion events, while others are more flexible. On those more flexible days, I try to just create a massive amount of content – whether that’s scouring the web for cool things to pin on Pinterest, shooting multiple outfits for the blog, spending hours creating my collages for posts, etc. That way when it’s busy, I know I won’t get behind because I’ll already have things scheduled.

3. How would you describe your personal style?

Refined, modern and fun. I love to invest in the classics – a solid handbag, the perfect pumps, a flattering LBD, but love to experiment with jewelry and trendy accessories (think baseball caps, shark tooth necklaces, fur scarves).

4.  Which three pieces in your wardrobe do you reach for the most?

Right now it’s gotta be my basic black tote by Smythson, my newest pair of coated denim from James Jeans, and my BaubleBar double pearl earrings. Easy and chic.

5. What are three beauty products that you could not live without?

At the moment I’m loving Laura Mercier’s tinted moisturizer, Simple Skincare’s cleansing wipes (take them everywhere!), and Neulash.

6. Considering that you’re a native of Austin and now reside in Dallas, how would you compare each city in terms of style, atmosphere and personality?

Austin is noticeably more laid back and unique – people wear whatever they want and own it. It’s a very cool city known for it’s live music and great tex-mex. I love being in Austin and will likely make the move back in a couple of years! Dallas on the other hand is more elegant – there’s a lot of amazing shopping, fancy restaurants and so much to do (the Perot museum, Bush Presidential Library, etc). The style in Dallas is certainly dressier – you’ll always see women in heels at dinner, whether you’re at Mi Cocina (super casual) or Nobu (super fancy).

7. What are your favorite spots to dine, shop and relax in Dallas?

Neighborhood Services is definitely my favorite spot to grab dinner in Dallas, but I also love Mr Mesero and Shinsei. For shopping, Forty Five Ten always has gorgeous designer duds, but I also love visiting Highland Park Village. Elements is another boutique you don’t want to miss!

8. Out of all the places you’ve traveled to for work, which one is at the top of your list?  And where would you like to travel to next?

I love going to New York – I’m always exhausted when I leave, but I know I’ve busted my butt the whole time and always come away with great new relationships with brands and other bloggers. I’m traveling to London at the end of October with another blogger and I’m so excited! I’ve been to London a few times, but not since I started my blog. There are so many incredible brands and designers headquartered in London that I’m looking forward to meeting with and potentially collaborating with. After that, who knows! I think it would be pretty amazing to go to China. I just need to find an excuse to go!

9. What do you find most rewarding about being a fashion and lifestyle blogger?

Working with amazing brands and becoming dear friends with bloggers I’ve long admired is definitely the most rewarding part, but I also love the freedom to be able to work from literally anywhere. You never know where you’ll find me!

10. What advice would you give to aspiring bloggers just starting out?

Blogging takes time. Don’t expect instant success or gratification, or you will be seriously disappointed. Do what you love and work your butt off!