Erika Fox is a fiery force to be reckoned with, although you may know her better as her blogger alter ego Retro Flame. This NUI Galway alum is dominating the fashion blogger scene with her chic looks and envious life in New York’s Upper East Side.
In the true spirit of blogging, let’s begin with an OOTD. Fox has a following of 138k on Instagram, so it might be worth jotting down a style note or two. I’ve recreated out one of her many, many effortless chic ensembles on a student budget.
A simple black polo neck is the starting point (Stradivarius, €12.99). Fox wore H&M jeans on the day so it’s only fitting to add in H&M jeans now. These are the ‘vintage slim ankle jeans’ (€27.99) and appear to be the lovechild of the mom jean and straight leg. The denim breaks up the otherwise all-black outfit. Pop on a black coat, knee length as seen on Instagram (H&M, €34.99).
Forever photographed in her Celine chunky shades, opt for a cheaper pair from Zara (€15.95). Another essential accessory is Fox’s classic crossbody YSL bag. Get it without the hefty price tag from ASOS (€16.59) as a clutch or a similar style from Stradivarius (€19.99). Finish off the look with Topshop’s Ella boots (€52), just like the pair worn by Retro Flame.
Although Fox’s outfits do contain high-street pieces, she is a massive fan of designer buys. In a number of YouTube videos and blog posts she gushes about designer exchange shops and buying vintage items. Dublin’s Siopaella is the next best thing to her go-to New York shopping spots. Equally Ebay is worth a try too.
Her most worn designer items are her vintage Dior saddle bag and Balenciaga court heels. You’re welcome in advance because I have found dupes for both pricey purchases. Mango have recreated a croc saddle bag inspired by the Dior design, available from ASOS (€41.46). You can own your own pair of Balenciagas for €49.95. The only catch is they’re actually from Zara (and without the golden B hardware). Other than that, they’re a perfect dupe and even real leather.
Now dressed to impress you can take on the Upper East Side. Fox enjoys a leisurely iced americano in her spare time. For any coffee connoisseurs in search of a good cuppa, try the Jungle Café, 56 Central and the Coffee Club.
You can also find this blogger destressing in Central Park, taking in the views and strolling about. An evening in Eyre Square with a good book might be a good substitute, or hop on a bus to Salthill. Either would clear your head when assignments start to pile up and exams are looming.
Makeup-wise, this Kerry golden girl is a big fan of Rimmel foundations, in particular ‘Match Perfection’ (Boots, €10.49). In a recent Instagram story Fox raved about the drugstore beauty buy for its long-lasting high coverage formula. It also contains SPF 20 and boasts 24-hour moisture hydration. What’s not to love?
Fox later shared her go-to shadows from the Charlotte Tilbury ‘Stars in Your Eyes’ palette which retails for €72 from Feel Unique. Instead, try Maybelline’s Burgundy Bar eyeshadow palette (Boots, €14.99). Virtually the very same shades, however you may have to wet your brush before applying for a true colour pay-off.
All-in-all this cailín is an admirable lady. Dead set on moving to New York, she followed her dreams and is loving every minute of it. If her Instagram posts don’t make you go on a J1 – nothing will!
