Carolyn, your job is to inspire; to show people the endless possibilities of fashion and style. With success comes growth. Unfortunately jealousy comes with the territory. What I’m seeing is SOME people are only happy when you don’t grow or change too much. That is THEIR problem and not yours. Folks who really rock with you will continue to rock with you. I have had the absolute pleasure of watching some of my favs start out with shaky camera work, and sounding very timid to sprouting into confident business women. It really makes me proud. I encourage you to stay the course!❤
I don’t always like Carolyn’s fashion for myself but I am much older than she is and I know that I am not in her demographic… however I love her personality and how open and hilariously funny she can be! She is so entertaining and most days very positive! She’s very intelligent and articulate! I tune in for her the Woman and love for her to know that! I haven’t purchased any clothing but a pair of sneakers… I find that funny because I am 59😅 but what I have done is go to Trader Joe’s multiple times to purchase those buttery croissants and pesto that she makes all the time 😋 love you Sweetheart and wish you much success and good health 🙏
Totally agree with what you are saying about brands. I am not your demographic - I'm a sixty year old white European woman. I found you last week on my "new to you" RU-vid. The other fashion creators that I follow are all white European women, although one is based in Australia. For about two months now, they have all been sponsored by the same pearl jewellery company. Two of them were "advertising" the same pieces and they ALL had the same discount code! Also you said you had request for post partum fashion - well what about fashion for sixty year old women ( petite)of all nationalities! That should have you researching for hours!!😅😅😅 Keep up the great informative work, you are so funny too!! Carolyn, have you watched FASHION ROADMAN, on RU-vid. He is a UK based fashion journalist - he's brilliant. Carolyn, just keep doing what you are doing. You are truthful, honest and have explained more about how RU-vid works, than anyone that I follow!! This weekend, I am going to "binge watch" all your videos and yes I have subscribed since watching your "where has style gone"video!
Love you Carolyn. In my opinion the big black influencers do not look the same!! They all have their own somewhat unique style. The way you would wear an item is not the same way that Brittany Bows or Karen would style. Maybe it's because I work in fashion. A fashion degree merchandising like you and I currently work for the COS brand that I really understand the nuances. I think in a wider context people both online and offline look similar. People online are very much chasing a few lanes.... femininity/old money or quiet luxury/ Y2K etc. But thats the nature of trends... trends have been around since the beginning of time. People have always looked the same throughout history some maybe with a twist. But genuine uniqueness is only for true creative outliners. And most people do not have the creative range or want to for fear of ridicule to do so! Edited to speak on authenticity: The issue is the volume of very expensive luxury purchases. I won't mention names but I've seen influencers with a new hermes bag every month... now there will be a massive disconnect with the audience. Everyone on social media is earning 6 figures apparently. But realistically people are not wealthy especially in the black community... there is limited generational wealth. So how do influencers connect with a disenfranchised demographic?
To bring another point of view. I hate when people say supporters are jealous of influencers success. To be fair their followers supporting them is what made them financially successful. When influencers make it big their pay increases significantly but most people get a annual raise of 3%. So as an influencer gets bigger and are in a different tax brackets. How their styling (marketing) may just not be in their supporters tax bracket. Me personally I still support the girls with a like or a comment but I do not watch their content because its no longer for me.
THISSSSSSS it’s sad but I almost always unfollow creators that I like when they get big because almost all the time they don’t align with what I like anymore
Okay, let me jump in (I'm at the 8:11 mark) 1. To keep it a buck, most of the girlies that look like us in that small community have changed drastically and not for the better. 2. In my opinion, their change is not responsible. As an influencer, (because let's get real, they are no longer content creators, they are walking commercials) your job is to persuade me to buy what you're selling and that's not inspiring, it's selling. 3. Because they are now under the control of the money they earn, their styling has suffered and that is why they are all starting to look the same. 4. They are selling us the white man's dream and padding his pockets. 5. I'm gonna name names. Monroe is my forever girl! I love her and she keeps it a buck. Karen has changed so much and I struggle to keep watching her content. Kia was my girl; so effortlessly fly and now the shit she wears is so far outside of her original fan base budget. It's hard for me to keep watching her. 6. I'm going to keep supporting all them because Black over everything, but there needs to be some accountability. 7. Because they have the platform and the mic, I would love to see more involvement in the Black interests. Like don't just show us all the high profile events that we will never get into, show us events and activities that matter to our community. 8. All that being said, I get it, but let's not cover up the reality. I'll get off my soap box now.
Really good how you gave some background. As a consumer I feel leery when the influencers I follow have a new “favorite that they’ve been “using” for months, especially on a sponsored post. Do brands require certain verbiage? Honestly, how many potions and serums are always a new “favorite” flavor of the month? That’s when I feel like I’m being sold and the influencer comes across as less genuine. I watch all the videos and can rewind it back 90 days ago where a similar was the favorite potion or serum. As far as fashion, I love styling videos and commentary like this one. Please keep them coming.
Stand your ground and demand what you’re worth! What God has for you no one can stop or block. You have a gift and it will make room for you!! You have been commissioned to offer your expertise, people can take it or leave it… Fear is the robber of joy. You are passionate about what you do, let the naysayers stay in their corner. Keep shining and shooting for the stars! God got you!🙏🏽😘
I don't shop the majority of brands promoted by influencers, especially when I see the brand being promoted by a lot of influencers. For example, I do not want to see another lily silk video. But I simply choose not to view those videos, I don't take time to go leave a negative comment. Like you said, if we don't like the content then on the next.
Love this video! People say they're tired of content creators looking the same but really don't support the ones that are unique and different. I've been doing this for a while, and my growth is nonexistent, so I'm speaking from experience. I'm sure it's frustrating on all ends.❤❤❤
Yesterday’s price is history! “May the wind always be on your back and the sun upon your face and may the winds of destiny carry you aloft to dance with the stars." Quote from the movie Blow
Thank you Carolyn for this as it creates great dialog. For me I don't think that influencers look the same I think that the content is the same. I stopped watching certain influencers and can get turnt off by some new influencers. I feel like the content is less authentic now and becoming more about pushing product and salesy with the feeling that content is only being made because there's a dollar value. This means we get the same brands and product being pushed with links rather than being introduced to something new and fresh. Newer creators seem to follow what is trending so watching videos becomes redundant. You can also see this with tik toks and short form videos certain influencers will start being true to themselves and personality and then will start switching how they create to fall in line with what their more popular peers are doing which becomes less individualistic and more falling in line with what can be seen as the "the guide to how to become a successful influencer" I understand that working with brands and being held to creating within a certain box can give the illusion as the same but some influencers stopped creating content without payment. You can create content for your base that's authentic and create content for brands that will still allow you to be paid. I do think that our influencers are unique and different but the content being created isn't its not inspiring and doesn't feel inspired while watching. I also feel like the quality plays a part as well, creating content for yourself and what you feel is great but when we start creating content as experts it creates another aspect I love when creators speak to fit, material, and the brand itself. Some creators only give us oos and ahhs and so cute and it's a vibe when explaining pieces and sometimes don't know brands and mispronounce names and also do not speak on how to where items based on different body types. And also being very contradictory as in don't shop at Zara and HM the quality isn't there in one breath then come out giving us links to Zara and HM clothing because now all of a sudden within a few days the quality has seem to have gotten better. We all know that as black women we are held to a higher standard and how hard it is to get into any room and get the deals so as influencers when creating content you have to be on top of it. I know this is a lot and I hope that I am not offending anyone but I am really loving the conversations from your videos. Thank you so much for creating and opening up dialog
This! The mispronunciation of the brands on sponsored content really send me! How did they send you PR and you not do the due diligence to seek proper pronunciation of THEIR NAME? Certainly not a good look and feels less genuine.
13:26 don't let these brands take away what got you where you are (using "you" as a generalization). Do shit on your terms. Stop signing contracts just for the money and to push the brands agenda. Be unique and show the brands that your uniqueness is what's going to sell. It's like the girlies left their jobs to now be slaves to brands. Take a stand. It's your business and your "brand" and your customers, you set the tone for how you are going to show up.
I follow you less because of the fashion, but because of your personality and knowledge. When you really blow up I’ll just say praise God, because I’ve seen how hard you work. So when you buy your Birkin I’ll be happy for you. A lot of people are put off with growth. Abundance doesn’t look good with jealous eyes. Just saying.
Carolyn, sometimes people hold others to a standard that they don’t hold themselves to. Case in point, maybe based on my income I could only shop at Walmart. Then I got a raise or new job that now allows me to shop at H&M. Now that I shop at H&M doesn’t mean that I have changed, but now I have different/ better opportunities. So when you get your Birkin it only means that you have different/better opportunities available to you, but you are still Carolyn. Sadly some people don’t understand that. I am inspired to grow with you !!!
No. These girls have pushed European brands down our throats. They aren’t talking about quality or sustainability, it’s all about “luxury” brands, which we know isn’t always good quality
Oh okay. Although looking similar is not an issue for me because I understand the industry you are working in, especially as Black women influencers. My approach when watching all of you, is that your personalities and perspectives are different, and that makes it more interesting to watch. You are super creative, and I find myself bringing things I learned from you into my own style. You mentioned how a pants should fit in your last video -- and I literally would watch a video on pants because it is not as simple as it seems.
32:19 don't be scared cookie. Unless you do some shit like I saw the other day, you don't have anything to worry about. What I saw: a creator I have been following for years made a video about thrifting and had the mitigated gall to be holding 2-3 Kelly bags talking about get these from the thrift store. Girl, if you don't stop playing in my face. That's not thrifting, it's still very much luxury shopping. And there is nothing wrong with that, but don't play in our faces.
See that's the thing that I struggle with when working with brands when I have to create these creative briefs. I run an experiential marketing agency in a lot of the campaigns we work on are influencer based. One of the things I really try to do is be radical in my approach because most of the time my team is the only 'flavor' on those zoom calls. Because in order for influencers to get these opportunities and invites there has to be somebody who can advocate us. So every time they give me an outline for a creative brief, I always go back with my list of questions and it usually entails the 'who' and 'why'. Cuz what y'all are not going to do is leave them out or bird feed them opportunities when they are driving the metrics! I'm trying my best on the other side for us! 💪🏿
This is a great conversation that is very timely. The reality is that now that we as consumers have been following creators for awhile just as the creators are elevating, we as consumers are also becoming more hip to how we’re being sold to and I think, particularly in the current economy, there is a general swing toward less consumption. I know for me personally I am now gravitating more toward creators who focus on styling more than mindless consumption because let’s be real there’s only so much ‘ish we can buy and only so much physical space to store it all because we don’t all have whole rooms with really nice closet systems. The reason I really appreciated the last video and just you overall as a creator is because you focus on styling and intentionality and you have actual fashion expertise that comes through in how you share information. At the end of the day most followers are looking for authenticity and originality. Even the type of Birken you talked about still sounded uniquely you, you said a fringey Birken not just a plain azz ugly black bag that’s just not cute, sorry no one will ever influence me to think a Birken is a cute bag. You will keep growing and I think you will stay true to who you’ve presented yourself to be because you like a few others I really rock with come across as real ones.
Your feelings and fears are valid dear. Keep growing and elevating. Your audience will grow and evolve with you, because of your authenticity & transparency. I believe that is a core trait of yours and if you don’t lose that… I think you’ll be fine and sky is the limit. You are not just showing us what you buy… you’re educating and entertaining and using years of experience to back it up. That alone sets you apart. Lean into your God given gifts and we’ll ride with you.
Maybe you should go out and seek out brands that appeal to you rather than await those approaching you who are sending the same tank top for all of you to wear. I unsubscribed to several when I saw that it just looked as if the creators were being clothes hangers. You need to figure out your purpose, style and mission. All the best!
I understand exactly what you are saying. And I'm not a content creator. What I love about watching it gives me ideas on what I can do with my own style. I appreciate your honesty and just stay true to yourself Carolyn ❤❤❤❤❤❤
😂 😂 had to pause the video to let you know that I won’t be coming at you for buying the Birkin 🤣 I’m passionate when discussing topics I enjoy with people I find interesting ( that’s you by the way). I’m sorry you thought what I wrote was directed to you personally. The point I wanted to make is that one should buy a Birkin ( or any item) because it truly resonates with them and fits their style and not just because it is a standard/status in the fashion world and somehow would instantly level up their styling game. Taking myself as an example and my style, I would look ridiculous with that bag! I don’t have any problem at all with people changing, growing and evolving ( style wise, money wise etc); it’s the human condition after all. I do have a problem though when instead of inspiration from influencers ( taking in general here, not just the brown skinned community- btw never thought of it as a matter of skin color … it’s 2024 🙄 why is skin color still an issue???), I see a constant flow of new purchases with one haul after the other… I often find myself asking (…myself…) where are they going to wear all this? Thank you for this behind the scenes. Bottom line: don’t be afraid to be you and do you. No matter what anyone ( including me) says. PS1. It’s troublesome that the creativity part is somewhat taken away from content creators when collaborating with companies PS2 I have to stop with the long comments 😅 Off the finish the rest of the video!
Carolyn I must say we luv you over here❤ your style is so personal and relatedable to us,but let me tell you, I asked one of the content creators that I follow and subscribe to from day one years ago. I asked if she would be doing some of the styling shopping videos that she started off doing which actually bought a lot of us to follow her and admire her style in the first place, which I thought was her true personal style she dressed better then, then she do now! Although all the high-end clothes are nice to have but they can lack personality if everyone else is wearing the same. But anyway I asked her would she be doing some of the styling that she use to do to show some of her followers that they can still look fabulous on a budget without looking like a amazombie😂😂 well she said NO!! And if I didn't find her content useful then I can unsubscribe and go find it somewhere else!! I was shocked!! I like a lot of the content creators style from when they first started and I know we all change. But to see walking billboard content creators all the time gets old. No pun intended, but personal style is what brought most of us to most content creators pages in the first place. And we are not saying don't get your paper💵I'm starting to feel like a lot of content creators are starting to pick up where the celebrities left off, you know how we all use to only like to see what the celebrities were wearing but now we don't really care any more. All in saying is I enjoy watching and supporting content creators and I don't want y'all to Fizzle out like most celebrities did and like when the natural hair community was trending but now it's gone. We want y'all to give us some of your authentic relatable selves so that we don't get bored of y'all. It's getting a little predictable in these streets you see one, you see them all! kind of thing! mix it up a little. The majority of yall followers may not be able to afford big brands and we know its y'all jobs but we also need something more relatable from y'all like can we go into Marshall's or Tjmax. To find a better quality dupe? im so tired of people out here looking like Amazon dupes because that's where most content creators send them. 😂😂
I stopped following one of the most highly influential black content creators last year because I don’t see any originality in her personal style and it looks thrown together and isn’t fashionable at all imo. I love what you’re doing and the great thing about social media is our ease of following what appeals to our personalities and personal taste. I’m curious to see how the world of influencing shifts over time particularly for creators of color. As for me and my time, I spend it with the people that are interesting to me and leave me curious enough to absorb their next piece of content.
So Carolyn, let’s say this first… I am amazed by your honesty and integrity to this game! I found out about you watching Monroe, but became a fan because of your authenticity and transparency! You are different for many reasons, one your humbleness, down to earth (reachable), creativity and education (in this field). To some, this is a hobby… but you… this is you from your beginning and I can feel it! Lastly, pls do not feel scared… to buy or wear what you want. We are the only group of ppl that do not want someone to grow and stay in a box, esp when someone is growing. I remember a friend asking me if my LV was real… I thought long and hard and said, she doesn’t know me! I work hard and I can have what I want to buy! So, buy and carry the Kelly… you deserve it!
Carolyn I love your content and this was no exception. You are so genuine and for your Cookie squad, it truly resonates with us. I look forward to seeing your growth and I look forward to you taking me along and if, at some point, I am no longer comfortable on your train, I’ll just graciously depart and go aboard a train that’s moving in the direction that I want to move in. It’s that simple. There’s someone for everyone. But, I know I’ll never leave you 🥰🥰🥰
If you want to see more brown creators that deserves so much love and that offers something real to the community is Jaz up my style. Please check her out. She’s amazing
Genuine question…as a “community” and “network” are you all not connecting with one another via like a group me/chat? Just to support one another, share ideas and the things brands are doing, saying and expecting? Ik some of the girlies are under the same management (e.g. KG), but if you all don’t like that management or don’t desire to be managed, what does it look like to just have informal support?
Wear what makes you feel, comfortable, beautiful, strong, confident, whimsical, giddy, happy, strong, empowered, sophisticated, unbothered, BUT MOST IF ALL………HAPPY! 😊Social media platforms offer us an opportunity to pick our very own personal stylist….or not! Yesterday is gone. Tomorrow is not promised to us. TODAY is NOT a dress rehearsal! Have fun with “fashion,” folks! In the larger scheme of things, it’s not THAT serious! 🙏🏼😊
Yes Carolyn, know your worth!!! Don't be terrified, don't be scared -- it is called GROWTH my dear, change is inevitable. Now if you tell us that Fashion Nova has the best quality clothing, then we have a problem .. until then, keep going. You are doing great.
Hi beautiful I would love to say congratulations on everything you do. You’re doing a phenomenal job. Don’t allow a certain community to scare you because you are doing great. Keep up the good work.
Hey Cookie! My comments about some lacking personal style was simply that and unrelated to many of the influencers that we may both follow and sponsored posts. I do quietly walk away when i no longer resonate with someones content or change of style. I hoped that our comments are welcome when related to the topic. Get the Hermes bag! I watched and followed some of the popular creators before they were popular and watched the glow up, still watching because the core content is still interesting to me.
Carolyn, I got so excited when you mentioned that you and my other favorite fashion inspirators speak to one another. You ladies really are blazing trails in your space. I wish you beautiful, intelligent sisters would be so revolutionary to find a collective purpose, plan, and action to leverage your influence to change the way mass fashion producers approach black and brown women consumers and business owners such as yourself. We have great buying power which would be sorely missed if we were to leave this space or if we were to be more exclusively committed to black designers, growing a black fashion and luxury space, or to companies that show a greater degree of equity. You clearly are a natural leader. Just want to let you know how much I appreciate your consciousness and your desire to set the records straight and to teach your audience to be more balanced and understanding. This is an interesting time and opportunity to watch this market evolve!! Be bold babe and move with assurance that you are being carried and protected by the angels!!!❤ Stephanie
A lot of times, I fast forward the promotions stuff because it don't appeal to me most times. Many times, its a lot of out my price point. You're not gonna like everything. Everyone and everything is not for you. You can't expect a content creator to cater to you. Find someone that appeals to you. Just be your authentic self. I love you because you always seem authentic and honest. Keep being you.
Thank you so much for your response! I completely understand everything you shared. We all learn, grow and evolve not just in fashion, but in life! For me, it can sometimes seem repetitive because a lot of creators adopt the same language i.e. life be lifing, whatever product is giving what it needs to give, etc. so when similar products are being shared and everyone adopts the same language it seems that all are "acting" and "being" the same. I'm with you, if I'm not interested, I move on, no time to share negative comments. I enjoy your channel because of your personality, your humor - the realness of it all 😊. Of course, I'm inspired by the fashion, but that's not the major reason I follow you! Keep doing what you are doing. What God has for you is already YOURS! Take care sis', thanks again for sharing! Happy Valentines Day ❤!
I love this vid.. I don’t know when we got to this point where we view change and growth as a negative thing. I see so many influencers address this subject. It’s sad that it has to be addressed, If you’re not changing and growing your not learning lessons in life. Your amazing and I’m looking forward to following your journey.❤❤
Heyyyy Cookie I totally agree! I personally use the modo if it don’t apply I let it fly!!! Cookie you do/create what makes you feel good on the inside. Your style is Unique I am Guaranteed a different DOPE LOOK that will always be timeless. From your thrift shopping , cost video down to your shoe looks you always give something amazing. I appreciate the authenticity! Thank you MS. COOKIE/CAROLYN this COOKIE never Crumbles when watching your videos!! ❤STAR/cookie
This is a great conversation. When the girls evolve I love to see it. I want to see you all grow and thrive that is very important to me. I follow a nice little range of creators so the style is not the same at all and to be honest some of them I don't particularly like their style but I like their personality. Keep doing your thing Carolyn I like your style, your knowledge of fashion and your personality!
Love your channel!! Be you and protect your brand-You! Some people will always be mean and nasty while continuing to watch your channel and hitting the “like” button. Can’t please everybody……
Hopefully we’re all growing and changing as we go along. If not, why are we here? I appreciate that whatever you do here, you are always your authentic self. Than you for that.
Let’s keep it a buck. The staying relatable nonsense comes from a place of not wanting to see someone you deemed on your level surpass you. I don’t want to relate to total strangers on the internet no shade. It’s funny how millions upon millions of people relate, uplift, worship and support Beyonce who’s a Billionaire. Someone who doesn’t even speak to her audience UNLESS she wants to sell them something. Yet they have no issue with her being un relatable and unreachable. People need to check themselves. I want to see EVERYBODY Black thrive. Thrive in an unimaginable non relatable way. Because if they did…I know fully well know I can too. Being relatable is bending yourself to stay small and in a box!! Nah I’m good. Being in a box is for the dead. Not living beings who are trying to live a full and fulfilling life. Girl boo with trying to make grown adults understand thriving and advancing in life is what it’s all about. Thanks for sharing your thoughts!! ❤❤❤
Carolyn you are a force to be reckon with in these fashion streets....companies should know that you are worth your weight in gold. It is a pleasure to watch you give us truthful knowledge of what we should have within our wardrobe, while letting us know it's style and not trend. People act weird when someone is becoming successful in their craft. Just keep being true to yourself and everything will continue to fall in place, because what God has for you is for you alone. Keep Inspiring.
I’m Q … and a Cookie… I chose you to take up my time because I’m 61 now and your eclectic style is very much mine… I love it!! I pretty much had all your coats !! Love yourself woman … you’re great!… we know the procedure… we pick and choose the one with the creative idea… get out the corner and move around… you’re wonderful!!❤️Luv ya Sis/Cookie
You are a jewel on RU-vid. I found you just a couple of weeks ago. You've given perspective and illuminated much of what goes on behind the scenes of an influencers life. I really love the content you provide.
I appreciate your channel because your unique. I see you wearing unique pieces high/ low and you put your own twist. I also enjoy the sense of humor too. Its refreshing. Continue to shine and grow. Im glad the cookie community is growing. We see you and we are watching.
🎯🎯🎯🎯. This was spot on!!!! And you did good. And to know that a creator is listening to their supporters is great! I too was one initially like omg here are black women and respresentation. Then it went to omg these chicks all look the same. This helps a lot! Thank you!
You covered so much and did it so well. Your insight has always been transparent and entertaining, and so much of why I enjoy your content. Even sharing the bits about partnerships was eyeopening. Your feelings are 100% valid, if there are still any doubts✨
I love all your videos, duh! But THIS may be my fav one yet! I feel like you validated soooo many things that we (as an audience) intuitively knew about being influenced, but needed confirmation on! Like... Lily Silk for example... (sorry to name drop 😣) I love that you (and our other faves) were able to partner with them (because we're rooting for all the gworlz to get their coins 😉) however, it feels like when we are being led to these brands, we need to know that what you TELL us you like, feels authentic, esp since we're spending our HARD earned coins IN THIS ECONOMY! Anywho, I digress. You, ma'am have your head and heart on the beat of all things fashion and we are PROUD to Cookie with you. Keep it up, we see you! 😘
CG on this Ash Wednesday 40 days of lent a time to reflect and reset. I wish you nothing but the best . I follow many but often don't watch because they've become so robotic and it's boring. I look to fashion content creators to learn more about fashion. Not to just buy I want to support all black creators. But there's white creators Bjonesstyle and Tuba who share very interesting and informative content. You have been doing a great job. There's endless possibilities for you to approach this platform and get your coin. I feel some of your friends are irresponsible. I know I previously made a comment about Hermes bags, I just don't get it there customer service is horrible. But on this side of heaven you should purchase what makes you happy.
Everybody that’s happy for you, isn’t always rooting for you. I think when people see their favorite influencers growing and they don’t like it. Either they’ve shifted away from that particular POV which happens and they gracefully unfollow and keep it moving. Or the growth is triggering to them and rather than be self-reflective, they become a hater 🤷🏽♀️ I’m personally excited for you to get that Kelly Cut bag! It makes me feel like it’s possible. But I can def see how that would be triggering to the pocket watchers lol
Hey Carolyn I took a trip to the city this weekend with my daughter to consign some things and took your recommendation to Los Tacos….. Gurlllll😅 just us two skinny ladies spent $70. On tacos in one sitting 😅 delicious! Keeping my eyes peeled for you, and Simply Shannah. That would make my trip ❤ be well!
Of course you will and should grow. No guilt should you feel. Your authenticity comes through. Your fashion background supports what you have to offer. I love your channel and I could be your mom :-). Keep doing you. You did your best! Thank you
Our fave content creators sold out to the corporate fashion machine. So now that’s who we are following and “influenced” by - Corp Fashion & Beauty Account #1, #2, . . . .
Grow GROW GROW! I want to see the people that inspire me grow! I’ve allowed miserable people to keep me in uncomfortable places because I was afraid of losing their “ love” but at the end of the day, I regret not shining as bright as I could! It's a new day so I'm working on that! But please Auntie show us growth and learning experiences! I don't expect you to be anything other than human! We love you!!!!!
I’m glad you made this video and I learn a lot from BTS info that you and other content creators share. Congrats on your Cookie growth 💫 ! Happy Valentine’s 💝 Day!
I'm a woman of a certain age 😊 and, accordingly, I'm not as easily influenced as I might've been when I was younger. More than anything, I watch you are other "influencers" because of your personalities. And because I live in NC and but love NYC and love seeing you all out and about in the city. I definitely don't hold it against creators when I see them doing brand content thats clearly formulaic. I cheer you on because it means you'll be able keep creating and I get to continue enjoying your humor, insights, and city scenes. Thank you for your authenticity, Carolyn!
The fact of the matter is 1) The people we're subliminally referring to here not only lack style, they lack taste. 2) Nobody likes being sold to. 3) Me, specifically, I don't like when people pretend to be something they're not. Illusions of wealth or otherwise.
Carolyn unfortunately we live in a world of insecure, unhappy people. I’m old enough to must of the creators mother or grandmother. Don’t get discouraged. God got you. Keep doing what you do and most of be happy and don’t let negativity kill you joy. Love you, God bless you.
This was a great video and think piece. I appreciate the “behind the scenes” insight. With that being said, I will agree to disagree because I do believe we “black & brown” girlies (not speaking for anyone else) watch many of the same “creators” and they do look the same. I still watch, like and comment but will skip what I don’t connect to. I believe much of it is also due to many having the same agency. Which is why I do follow a few one off creators. It’s weird when the small pool of our creators say that everyone looks the same or there’s no authenticity when they are the ones contributing to that sameness. The personal style isn’t different, but I don’t hold that against them. I just look at them as influencers and no longer creators. For example when i saw all the girlies all of a sudden doing a brand video for Walmart, it gave me pause. I was like ok, this is an ad. Also you could scroll back and see many never spoke of buying items from Walmart previously. Only a select few. I will however continue to support, I want the girlies to win because at the end of the day they are still just a small percentage of the creators/influencers out there. Keep up the good work Carolyn! Rate is up 🙌🏾👏🏾
I think some followers forget this is a business for people. We follow the same people and yes we see the same “it” Gucci bag on our timeline or “it” fragrance repeatedly but I keep in mind this is still marketing. People are growing their brands. I’m still going to like ❤ 👍🏾 because I support their growth even if it doesn’t resonate with me. And as financial growth comes exposure and interest may change to more (just) luxury…and some of their audience may be feeling they can’t connect with them anymore. 🤷🏽♀️
Carolyn I love love love love your style u make me laugh i been watching for a while but never commented don’t listen to them to me i can’t wait to see you it brings me joy please don’t listen to nobody but you that why I watch for something different and I think that you are great and beautiful and funny don’t change ❤❤❤❤❤❤❤❤❤❤❤❤❤❤❤❤❤❤❤❤❤❤❤❤❤❤❤❤❤❤❤❤❤
Thank You for sharing this video. Stay true to you. I personally respect the grind, growth and change. You are on your way to the top. You are doing a great job. Wishing you all the BEST!
I discovered RU-vid as entertainment during covid. Karen BC was one of the first I subscribed to and I haven't missed a vlog since 2020. Her success in the upper echelons of the fashion industry makes her styling items totally out of my reach financially but I now watch for the fascinating behind the scenes blogs at the various fashion weeks, etc. And I can still get ideas with her at home styling. I just randomly watched you this week and immediately subscribed. I'm glad you mentioned in one of the videos I watched during my initial binge all of your other roles beyond being a content creator because I was surprised that you weren't in the hundredK subscriber range. I know your name already sounded familiar..? Ok. I'm rambling now! Just wanted to say I think this was a kind and generous video to make😊
Thank you Carolyn for your vlog. I just recently became a subscriber; think it was Saturday or Sunday. This vlog was real talk. We the viewers are totally responsible for the choices we make. I realize for myself I am not going to bankrupt my household trying to keep up with anyone on RU-vid or personal encounters. Just like you said we have the option to unsubscribe. When I get bored with an influencer or creator, I first turn off the notification bell and if I still not interested after I view what they have uploaded over a period of time then I will unsubscribe. You have not lost a subscriber here. Do what feels right and real to you .
Carolyn…., thank you for your bravery and vulnerability. Keep doing what you’re doing. Believe me I’ll keep watching. I learn something new from you every time I see a video.✨
Girl, you have no control over what people think of you. As you grow there will be subbies who get left behind because they are not growing in the same direction or pace that you are growing.. And, as you grow you will attract new subbies who are on a path of growth.... like you. Please don't get distracted by trying to be a people pleaser...that would be the kiss of death and destroy your content. And no matter how well you explain your point or how many examples you give there will always be some chicken head that will misinterpret your intent. When people are in the midst of experiencing or about to experience huge growth it gets a little dark and scary for a minute(in the Bible there was darkness and then light). Keep this in mind and keep reaching for the light....those of us that appreciate you will hold up candles, flashlights or whatever you need to help light the path for you. Cookie, you got this.....now get back to styling fabulous outfits that we can recreate.
You truly are unique in this space. There are others too. But the main thing with your content and your style that sets you apart is how you express your personality through fashion. And that looks a little different every day. But you aren't afraid to mix textures and patterns and color. You aren't afraid to button your button up (oxford lol 🙄) around your neck and then drape the rest of it off your back in some crazy swoosh. I think what people are talking about is the minimalism trend that has a lot of content creators wearing the same three colors and same three brands and same three cuts. That just isn't you and it won't be. Whether you get yourself the cut or not - which you absolutely should you have rocketed in subs recently! (ps there is a green one like you were looking at on the real real right now on sale ;) Just keep doing what you believe to be right for you and it will be authentic
I came here because a few days ago I literally typed into the search bar, what happened to personal style? 😆 I like style/fashion RU-vid but it does feel like everyone looks the same (in the minimalist everlane/Monica Vinader part of RU-vid I seem forced into by the algorithm gods). Thank you for explaining why that can happen. I usually go wandering around to other channels when I get bored and find wonderful content (like yours)! I loooove your style, btw! I have a family member who has been a RU-vidr for over a decade now and have watched him go through some similar struggles with growth, negative comments, burn out, etc. But he’s a super dynamic person who is always balancing the fact that it is a business with maintaining freshness and joy. Don’t fall for the thought that it’s only about creativity and artistry. Artists and creators have always needed money to do their work at a larger scale. Make sure you get paid! In the end, it’s really about life balance and your own career goals. Anyway, hope that makes sense. And best of luck to you!
New follower but love this video... I stopped following a lot of creators cause I was getting bored... some started doing less casual looks and its not relatable... sometimes its the type I just dont wear a lot of big lux houses and heels lol I walk to work and my environment is casual. You lose inspo, but I never thought what goes behind scenes vs. what I see. I hope you can do more jewelry vids really into silver and rings and very inspired by your selections and chunky styles!... I don't believe in hate watching ppl everyone grows and its okay when the shoe doesn't fit... there is a lot of talent out there but wishing ppl not to grow is a bit selfish... just move on lol
You are one of my favorite fashion people to follow. Don’t over think it you definitely have a fashion point of view. I don’t think you style like everyone else. I see what you’re talking about with everyone starting to look alike you however don’t fall in that category. Please don’t allow brands to style themselves we the consumer are looking for content creators with there own perspective. I actually want people to show me one jacket styled 5 different ways. I’m watching because I’m looking for ideas on how not to look boring.
Really enjoyed hearing about all the stuff which goes on behind the scenes. Love your honesty. You’re a fashion girlie. If you want a Hermes bag go get it.
Thank you for sharing your insights on this topic. Getting a peek behind the veil shed some light on why we may seem the same products being showcased in similar manners. Also, I’d like to thank you for illustrating the legitimacy of content creation. I am older and used to think this influencing thing was a bunch of hooey. Boy was I wrong. You live long enough and you’ll learn something! Being a content creator is a bonafide profession and I can now see how challenging it can be as well as very lucrative for some. I applaud the amount of work and effort you put forth on your platform. Watching you is entertaining and informative as I have been influenced to no longer leave the house looking like a hobo 😉 Keep up the good work, Carolyn.
This is really an amazing blog and soooo layered and nuanced. You will inevitably change but the beauty is from the two videos I have seen (I'm a newbie as in today lol), you content is based on more than just commercialism. I think that may be what we are all missing is the connection. It is refreshing to see someone have a conversation with their audience. We miss our faves just talking to us.
Hello, Please do not be afraid to increase your rate. You are free to negotiate a better deal. As you continue to grow, your rate will evolve. These brands have the money. If they want to reach the unrepresented audience, they should be able to negotiate a fair deal. We are proud of you!! Keep shining!!❤
It does seem like everyone has the same fashions. More important to me is the authenticity. There is one influencer said in one of their videos that they didn't understand how someone could talk about fragrances. It seemed silly to talk about a fragrance. But now that influencer is going to fragrance events and discussing fragrance. Let's be real. If this is not your interest be honest about it. Most of the fashion portrayed appears to be for a younger generation. I will be 68 this month and I like to be fashionable as well. Would love to see more stylish fashion for the more seasoned black women. I do love that there are more styling for the plus size clientele.
I just want to start off by saying that you are one of the kindest, sweetest and nicest content creators in the game. Your personality is so genuine and your sense of humor is always on point. I'm a cookie now so I absolutely adore you and your style and I think this video was spot on. You're so sweet how much you considered everyone's feelings and that speaks volumes. You really want everyone to get along, and isn't that the ultimate goal even if we have our differences. We can always agree to disagree. But once I joined the cookie family I have been extremely positively influenced mainly from your magnetic personality which I love. You're so bubbly and cute and I applaud you for doing exactly what you want to do!!!! Bravo 👏🏽👏🏽👏🏽
Carolyn, you are timeless and beautiful! There’s a lane for each one of us and you are being committed to yours. Even Jesus had haters and He was trying to save their souls. Literally, your job is to inspire and motivate. Whoever can’t see that doesn’t deserve or belong to be in your cookie jar. And honestly, your light is supposed to shed light on other darkness. Whether they want to deal with it or not is not up to you! Don’t let these people make you second guess your gifts. Shoot, I love Dylan lex because of you!!! Now, I need the coins to truly invest, but that doesn’t take away how you inspired me to look at a luxury brand and aspire to obtain it. You’re doing an outstanding job! Don’t you dare stop! And yes, I’m yelling at you with soo much love and support! ❤
This was so knowledgeable! Thank you as a content creator my self the struggle is real…. lol but this encourages me to keep going and to inspire people 🙏🏾
I appreciate that being an Influencer is a job. Your followers should grow with you but some will grow away. My passion is styling. I love anyone who can throw together a fabulous outfit even one I wouldn't wear. However, I move on when someone is blatantly selling expensive brands, e.g. promoting a particular mortgage payment priced handbag or shoe of the moment because some of the best dressed people I've ever seen don't wear brands. You only have to see black people going to church to know that money does not maketh the outfit or wo/man. You be you and your people will follow. You will lose followers but I am sure that you will gain many more.
7 месяцев назад
I don’t feel like the actual fashion girls. Like the ones that go to fashion week look alike but all the aesthetic girls who always say they don’t like color is hilarious. They all only like neutrals then you hear one of them adding color to their wardrobe then you hear the others all of sudden adding some color to their wardrobe. They do basically look alike. Their houses look alike. Even the cups they drink from are the same.
Your soul/content deserves to be compensated the same as everyone else. Never stop growing/glowing up. Looking forward to watching throughout the years ahead.
