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I also regard my blog as an intrinsic link to my full-time profession of being a graphic designer. I find it interesting as owning a blog has become second nature to almost every type of creative. Whether you are an illustrator, fashion designer, architect, musician or chef even, the idea of a blog is an easily accessible platform where one can share, express and converse with complete strangers from the other side of a computer screen. There are simply no restraints as you as the author, are granted freedom in expression.

For a designer, a blog could be seen as “free play”’; a release from the design process we undergo on the job. With many factors contributing to the design process, the need to stimulate a designer’s creativity becomes just as vital as a fresh breeze of air through a stale room. 

As a designer/fashion blogger and avid blog reader myself, stimulating my creativity is an everyday necessity where I often experience a “visual overload” – a self-conceived idea where you have literally looked at so many images you’re eyes refuse to digest anymore and all you can do is close them. One could interpret this as a negative outcome, though I see this sensory overload as a positive. Here’s why…

I have recently started a new chapter in my design career at an integrated marketing communication agency called Onepartners, based in Surry Hills. Having moved on from an in-house retail environment to a studio/agency setting, the transition has certainly been a stimulating one none the least. However, to support in producing refreshing designs, I visit my favourite blogs/websites that cover both fashion and design on a daily basis.

These include Trendland, The Design Files, Design Milk, ColourLovers and AusInfront and Etsy. Each of them is bound to have a post that makes me say out loud “look what we have here” followed by an immediate click on the “share on Twitter” button.

I have come to notice that it’s become an unwritten requirement for designers to be in the loop of what’s going on not only in their industry but also in popular culture and world news in general. Since design is a massive category in itself and one that is relative to many others, I always resort to this single comment - “you don’t have to like it, but be aware of it”. I feel this is a good way to comprehend all information and images you come across as it aids you in taking on new ideas, valuing critiques and feeding your hunger of wanting to see more of what really is inspirational to you.

With the opportunity to work with a mix of global brands at Onepartners, there is the responsibility to ensure all branding is consistent, though at the same time present innovative ideas. Being continuously exposed to creative material, every visual overload has influenced my outlook on design and need to think ‘outside the box’. It has assisted me in being an informed, open-minded designer and has ultimately questioned my very own capabilities and goals that I want to achieve not only in the workplace, but also later down the track. 

Here’s a short overview of what many ‘visual overloads’ and my experience of being a fashion blogger have taught me:

The importance of social media and being continuously active online

I receive the majority of industry updates via Twitter. If you’re not on Twitter, I strongly suggest you join. Many popular design bodies and groups have set themselves up an account and regularly share “up and coming profiles”, studio insights, event invites and even clever infographics, like ones here, here and here

http://sociability.ca/wp-content/uploads/2011/10/b2b-lg.jpg

http://iwebask.com/blog/2011/09/26/a-graphic-designer%E2%80%99s-hectic-life-infographic/

http://antsj.files.wordpress.com/2011/05/dnxvj.png

My favourite design groups I follow are Vimeo, AusInfront, The Loop, FeatureShoot, Print Magazine and Abduzeedo. 

Using social media as marketing strategy to build brand awareness in a instant/interactive environment

Many fashion brands are promoting their product via bloggers and Facebook App campaigns. With online shopping becoming increasingly popular, many consumers are now online and feel more comfortable engaging and interacting with brands that have a strong presence in their social media channels they visit. Our Digital Production team at Onepartners deals extensively with campaigns similar to these, building promotional Facebook Apps, which usually involve a brand ambassador.

The benefits of blog-trawling

You will be surprised to see other blogger’s styles that you may take an interest to and stumble upon unexpected content and music. It’s always great to share interesting posts with colleagues and create discussion amongst the workplace. The more you see, the more you have to gain. 

Personal development and intangible skills

Maintaining a blog requires a deal of effort, discipline and no doubt commitment – skills that can be carried into the workplace. You’ll come to be more familiar with your own personality traits and any areas for improvement. In preparing blog posts, there is a sense of personal satisfaction and growth to build something from scratch. Here the process of producing original content can be somewhat similar to brainstorming for a pitch or executing an idea for a design proposal at Onepartners. 

For a closer look into what I do in my spare time of being a designer, visit my personal style and fashion blog youronlyblackswan.blogspot.com

Posted by Lauren Hernandez; Onepartners Junior Designer