By snoadmin
Even though, publications like Vogue and Nylon do a wonderful job of producing the perfect Bible for relentless shoppers and trendsetters. A newcomer, N.E.E.T., has proven that it has a voice in the industry. The online magazine is a hit. The content is great and the writers and models who help make the magazine are people just like you and me. The Daily Forty-Niner talked with its creator, Stephanie J, about why she started her magazine, what she expects for the future and her personal style.
DFN: What is the history of N.E.E.T.?
Stephanie J: I decided to set up N.E.E.T. to bring together the wealth of fashion, design and craft that I come across everyday on the internet — creativity that is all independent, from a teenager crafting from their kitchen table, to the next bright young thing fresh from fashion school, to a team of friends doing it for the love of it. The obvious choice was a digital, online magazine — providing links straight to the shops and contributors, and accessible to anyone with a computer.
DFN: What does N.E.E.T. stand for?
S: N.E.E.T. is a UK government classification for “Not in (formal) education, employment or training” — I’m not! It’s a somewhat derogatory term, but I wanted to take it and use it for something that shows (often young) people don’t have to go down just one path, and can turn what they love into a living.
DFN: How would you describe N.E.E.T.‘s transformation between the beginning and now?
S: N.E.E.T. is pretty much the same — but bigger! A whole new set of shops and designers are featured in every issue, which means there’s always a new look.
DFN: Do you know how many readers you have? Were you surprised by the number?
S: Since N.E.E.T. went online in December 2005, it has averaged over 57,000 hits per month, with over 133,000 hits in March 2008 when Issue #010 went online. It grows in popularity with every issue, which is great.
DFN: Will N.E.E.T. go to print?
S: Right now, that move is a possibility — but it’s a difficult move to make. N.E.E.T. is online, because it’s free and eco-friendly.
DFN: Can you tell me about your background school, personal interests et cetra?
S: I did two-thirds of a Fine Art degree and hated every second of it! I generally don’t agree with the whole art world. I’ve taught myself web design over the past seven or eight years, and couldn’t live without fashion (obviously!), the pub and the Internet.
DFN: Have you always wanted to have a fashion magazine?
S: I dabbled with a online art magazine which anyone and everyone could contribute to before starting N.E.E.T. but wanted to create a predominantly fashion magazine, to showcase the finest independent creativity out there.
DFN: Your Magazine offers great articles with the latest trends for free. In the near future do you see yourself charging online subscribers for the read?
S: I don’t think that would be feasible, not since N.E.E.T. has been free for three years. I want N.E.E.T. to be available to all.
DFN: What’s been the best thing about starting your own magazine, or worst?
S: The best thing is the feedback — that so many people enjoy the magazine. It seems to have become a pillar of the indie fashion world! I also love coming across new designers and photographers who are an endless source of inspiration.
DFN: Starting a magazine is a huge accomplishment and a big chunk of responsibility. What would you tell readers that want to enter the magazine world?
S: Make sure you’ve got the time and love for it. It’s not for everyone. You need good organizational skills, and, if you’re laying out the magazine yourself, you’ll need talent with graphic design. Overall, you’ll need a USP! N.E.E.T.‘s unique selling point is that it features only independent designers (alongside vintage and eco-friendly fashion) — no big names. It needs to be bringing something new to the table — no pun intended!
DFN: What is one item of clothing that every girl should go buy for Summer 2008?
S: The big trends are: gladiator sandals, florals and ruffles — try vintage items to make sure you’re not dressed in the same thing as anyone else.
DFN: Who are you a fan of in terms of magazines, models, stylists, designers et cetra?
S: My two favourite magazines went down the tubes, Elle Girl and Happy Magazine, may they RIP! My inspiration comes from fashion blogs and street style — how people really dress, not how they’ve been told to by big business or because they’re stick thin and someone dresses them.
DFN: Vintage store or Name Brand? Why?
S: Vintage — original and (often) cheap!
DFN: Skinny Jeans or Wide Leg? Why?
S: I’ve just bought a pair of wide-leg jeans — the flare is so big I could get two legs in them! I’m loving the whole Charlie’s Angels look.
DFN: Chanel Iman or Kate Moss? Why?
S: Kate Moss – she’s unique to say the least!
DFN: Breakfast At Tiffany’s or Sex And The City The Movie? Why?
S: BOTH! I love Holly Golightly, but Carrie Bradshaw will always be my muse.
