Caroline Vazzana (often referred to as the “modern-day Carrie Bradshaw”) is a fashion editor, stylist, influencer, and the author and founder of “Making it in Manhattan.” She began writing her book in 2015 while working at InStyle magazine and subsequently launched her brand as one of New York City’s most colorful influencers. Through Making it in Manhattan, Caroline shares her tips & tricks for cultivating a stylish yet efficient wardrobe, shedding light on the industry for the future generation of fashion. Today, aside from running MakingManhattan.com, Vazzana is also involved in a wide range of social media brand collaborations and campaigns where she’s able to lend her unique eye, voice, style, and message.

Previously a fashion assistant at Teen Vogue and a writer at InStyle, what motivated you to take the risk and start your own business?

I’ve wanted to work in the fashion industry since I was ten. Social media began to take off during my time working as a fashion assistant, and I found it fascinating that people could now become their own editorial magazine. I watched as Instagram became a place people could come to for style inspiration, aesthetic inspiration, and more. The concept of building my own brand and becoming my own boss (even before the word “influencer” existed) was so interesting that I knew that if I didn’t take the risk, I would regret it. People thought I was crazy for leaving my job at InStyle, but I’m so glad I did.

You are the founder and author of “Making It In Manhattan,” an editorial site and best-selling book endorsed by fashion icons Iris Apfel, Betsey Johnson, and Cynthia Rowley. What inspired you to write the book?

While working at InStyle, I wished my younger self had known all of the valuable information I had learned throughout my career. I then came up with the idea of writing an all-encompassing guidebook for beginners who want to “make it” in the industry. I hoped to make the book very conversational, to feel like you are learning from your best friend's older sister. I wanted this book to be an easy read you could come back to time and time again when you need that reminder not to give up.

Tell us a little bit about your Snapchat original series “The Fashionista with Caroline Vazzana”.

Snapchat was one of the first social media platforms I joined, so seeing “The Fashionista” come to life has thrilled and excited me. In the series, viewers can look deeper into my life and style.

As a stylist, what is your creative process?

Honestly, every day is different. Lately, I’ve been inspired by the runway shows I’ve seen during fashion month. Other days, I’m simply inspired by New York life. I love walking around the streets alone and just looking at the buildings, the people, and the collective experience of New York. That’s what inspires me in my style choices.

What have been some of your favorite brands to work with? What brands could you see yourself collaborating with in the future?

I feel so lucky to work with brands I’ve always loved, such as Betsey Johnson, Stuart Weitzman, and T.J. Maxx. Some of my dream brands, though, would be Miu Miu and Gucci!

What is a piece of career advice you’d give to our readers hoping to start a career in the fashion industry?

Find what you love, and what you’re passionate about, and do it every day! A beautiful thing about working in fashion is that it truly becomes part of your life, so make sure you love it and don’t give up! □

Article Credits

Caroline’s Instagram: @cvazzana

Caroline’s TikTok: @cvazzana

Caroline’s Pinterest: @cvazzana

Caroline’s Snapchat: @cvazzana

Caroline’s YouTube Channel: Caroline Vazzana

Caroline’s Clothing Line: https://insprny.com/shop/caroline-vazzana

Making In In Manhattan’s Instagram: @makingitinmanhattan

Making In In Manhattan’s Website: www.makingmanhattan.com

Photo Credits: Alexandra Folster, Julia Feigus