The Original Influencer Chiara Ferragni On Her Approach To Social Media Success

On turning her following into a business...

A few brands started to contact me soon after I launched TheBlondeSalad.com in October 2009. I then understood that having a big base of followers meant I could influence the sales of a product or increase the notoriety of a brand.

On how she chooses who to work with...

For me it is important to feel a connection with the brands I choose to work with and obviously I have to like them! When Pomellato called me, it was a great joy. I had just bought my first Pomellato ring from the Iconica collection and to be the face of such an important campaign is a source of great pride.

Related article: This is How Chiara Ferragni Styles The Versace SS18 Tribute Collection

On the difference between bloggers and fashion editors...

In general terms influencers convey their personal point of view whereas editors have to represent the point of view of a magazine. Editors are known and respected for having a knowledge and therefore an important opinion on specific topics, such as fashion, whereas influencers are known and followed for their lifestyle - that goes beyond fashion.

On switching off from social media...

Generally speaking I don’t feel the need to switch off from social media because I share my life through Instagram in a very natural and spontaneous way. When I don’t post for a while it's because I am busy doing other things so I don’t feel guilty. I want to feel at ease with what I do.

Related article: Your First Look At Chiara Ferragni's Special Tod's Collection

The Pomellato for Women campaign features a group of like-minded women to both inspire others and highlight the importance of female leadership.

Related article: These Are Chiara Ferragni's Favourite Summer Shoes Ever

This article originally appeared on Harper's BAZAAR UK.