60 SECONDS WITH…LEROY AZNAM

Blogging from the Netherlands, Leroy Aznam of Comme Des Leroi shares his tips on all things fashion, from sample sales to can´t-miss events to Amsterdam´s hotspots.  Recently featured in Grazia and L´Officiel Hommes magazines, this fashion and lifestyle blogger is on the way to the top.

How did you get the idea to start your own blog?

I work at Coebergh PR and I was co-responsible for online PR within the company.  I started blogging for several marketing and lifestyle websites such as DutchCowboys.nl, Styletoday.nl etc. After doing that for a while, I decided to start my own lifestyle blog.

What does the name of the blog signify?

My name is Leroy Aznam, Leroy in French stands for king and I have played with the words and it actually says “just like the king…” or just like me. That’s why I used an ‘i’ instead of a ‘y’ in my blog-name to make sure people would pronounce it in French.

Who do you hope to reach with your blog? / What is your objective?

It was not my intention to reach anything or who I would like to reach. I just hope people will like what I write and do, because I like what I do.

Who inspired your fashion sense?

Yohji Yamamoto, he’s briliant

Do you draw inspiration from other blogs/ bloggers?

Actually not. I rather get inspired by magazines with beautiful photoshoots and great stories. Although I do sometimes look at a couple of bloggers, such as Katelovesme, Jack&Jil.

What does “style” mean to you?

It’s a part of your emotion. Expressing yourself and giving people an impression of who you are, how you feel.

Describe your style

I like the Scandinavian subtlety and simplicity but I also like the extravagant styles of Vivienne Westwood and Alexander Mcqueen. I think it’s a mix of both. It’s usually more basic because I spend a lot of time at the office, but often wear what´s comfortable, and even wear something crazy on the weekends.

Do you have a favorite brand?

Yohji Yamamoto

Do you prefer online or “real-life” shopping?

I like both: Online is easy and you don’t have to go outside when it’s raining. Real life shopping is fun because you can bring the item home immediately.

Which other blogs do you read on a regular basis?
Katelovesme, Jak&Jil, Fashiontoast, AfterDRK and Stylescrapbook

What importance do social networks have for you?
It’s very important, it becomes part of your life the minute you start blogging

What are your “must haves” of the moment?

Hybride parka’s, micro structured blazers, still the chino (in any color), heavy knit shawl collar cardigan or cable heavy knit cardigans

What are the advantages and disadvantages of blogging?

The advantage is of course that I can do the thing I like anytime and anywhere… Make pictures, write my own columns and show people what I like. The disadvantage is it goes on 24/7.

Is there something you would never want to write about?

Never say never… If I want to I can write about religion, music, food or the Kardashians… If I feel like it I will probably do it.

Do you ever experience criticism, jealousy or negative comments from your readers?  How do you deal with them?

Well it’s just other people’s opinion. I don’t mind being criticized.

What is the most stylish place in Amsterdam?
An area called ‘de Negen Straatjes’ nine small streets within the canals of Amsterdam. A must see when visiting Amsterdam.

What is your first thought in the morning?

Is it 07.00 already?

There are far more female than male fashion bloggers – in your eyes, what is the reason for this?

I think that women can express themselves better than men visually…

The last question: Is there something you have always wanted to tell the world?

If I do so, you can read it on my blog or follow me on twitter

Tic tac…60 seconds are up!  Thank you, Leroy!