To say Virgit Canaz is interesting would be an understatement. This London-based fashion blogger is nothing short of fascinating. Originally from Ecuador, the pink-haired style influencer grew up in the Netherlands and now splits her time between Amsterdam and London where she lives with her husband. 

She is known internationally for her unique yet classic sense of style and her trademark brightly-colored hair, yet few who know her would guess she was a kindergarten teacher prior to discovering her passion for covering fashion through her wildly successful blog The Preppy Fashionist. It was this multi-faceted nature of Virgit’s personality (and, of course, her incredible sense of style) that drew us to her in Amsterdam and eventually led us to partner with her on a giveaway promotion (more on that in a few!). Without further adieu, we thought you all would like the opportunity to know more about the pioneer behind The Preppy Fashionist.

1.) You were originally a pre-school teacher when you decided to become a fashion blogger. What was the moment you realized you had to pursue your passion?

One day I was searching for inspiration online and came across the LOOKBOOK website. At that time, it wasn’t easy to access to it. You had to be invited. I got an invitation and was amazed at the professional photography that the website shared with cool looks. From that day I started uploading my looks on the page; and after a month or two, I created my blog and followed my passion. ;D

2.) What was the most difficult thing about starting out as a fashion blogger?

The most difficult part was shooting every day as I used to work full time and didn’t have enough spare time except on the weekends.

3.) By all accounts, you’re an incredibly successful blogger now, having been featured in Cosmopolitan, InStyle and WhoWhatWear. What do you credit to your success?

Being original and not copying anyone else.

4.) You’re originally from Ecuador but grew up in the Netherlands and now live in London. How does your incredibly international background influence your style? 

Living and working in Amsterdam really opened my eyes to the importance of having a broader focus on diversity and inclusion, especially cultural diversity. People in Ecuador are very close minded. They love to wear colour but they always have a word of criticism that I especially don’t like. Living in Amsterdam for 12 years made me be myself. No one says anything bad about your style; they actually embrace it and admired it if I have red or pink hair. No one will look at me weird on the streets or anything. While in the UK, if you have pink hair, you aren’t taken seriously. However, Amsterdam made me realise that I shouldn’t care what people say but actually wear what I like, which made me into the person I am now.

5.) What’s your favorite trend of the moment?

The off-the-shoulder trend has to be my favourite this summer.

6.) What trend do you hope goes away and never comes back?

Palazzo trousers for sure.

7.) What’s one thing in your closet you can’t live without?

One thing!!! It’s hard to choose because I have a long list, but I will mention two: my black leather jacket and my camel trench coat. I can’t live without them and wear them every season.

8.) What advice do you have for aspiring fashion bloggers?

Be persistent, honest and authentic in your blog and followers will bring you success.

9.) What do you love most about your P.MAI bag?

That it is elegant and practical at the same time, and it doesn’t look like a  regular backpack.

To say Virgit Canaz is interesting would be an understatement. This London-based fashion blogger is nothing short of fascinating. Originally from Ecuador, the pink-haired style influencer grew up in the Netherlands and now splits her time between Amsterdam and London where she lives with her husband. 

She is known internationally for her unique yet classic sense of style and her trademark brightly-colored hair, yet few who know her would guess she was a kindergarten teacher prior to discovering her passion for covering fashion through her wildly successful blog The Preppy Fashionist. It was this multi-faceted nature of Virgit’s personality (and, of course, her incredible sense of style) that drew us to her in Amsterdam and eventually led us to partner with her on a giveaway promotion (more on that in a few!). Without further adieu, we thought you all would like the opportunity to know more about the pioneer behind The Preppy Fashionist.

1.) You were originally a pre-school teacher when you decided to become a fashion blogger. What was the moment you realized you had to pursue your passion?

One day I was searching for inspiration online and came across the LOOKBOOK website. At that time, it wasn’t easy to access to it. You had to be invited. I got an invitation and was amazed at the professional photography that the website shared with cool looks. From that day I started uploading my looks on the page; and after a month or two, I created my blog and followed my passion. ;D

2.) What was the most difficult thing about starting out as a fashion blogger?

The most difficult part was shooting every day as I used to work full time and didn’t have enough spare time except on the weekends.

3.) By all accounts, you’re an incredibly successful blogger now, having been featured in Cosmopolitan, InStyle and WhoWhatWear. What do you credit to your success?

Being original and not copying anyone else.

4.) You’re originally from Ecuador but grew up in the Netherlands and now live in London. How does your incredibly international background influence your style? 

Living and working in Amsterdam really opened my eyes to the importance of having a broader focus on diversity and inclusion, especially cultural diversity. People in Ecuador are very close minded. They love to wear colour but they always have a word of criticism that I especially don’t like. Living in Amsterdam for 12 years made me be myself. No one says anything bad about your style; they actually embrace it and admired it if I have red or pink hair. No one will look at me weird on the streets or anything. While in the UK, if you have pink hair, you aren’t taken seriously. However, Amsterdam made me realise that I shouldn’t care what people say but actually wear what I like, which made me into the person I am now.

5.) What’s your favorite trend of the moment?

The off-the-shoulder trend has to be my favourite this summer.

6.) What trend do you hope goes away and never comes back?

Palazzo trousers for sure.

7.) What’s one thing in your closet you can’t live without?

One thing!!! It’s hard to choose because I have a long list, but I will mention two: my black leather jacket and my camel trench coat. I can’t live without them and wear them every season.

8.) What advice do you have for aspiring fashion bloggers?

Be persistent, honest and authentic in your blog and followers will bring you success.

9.) What do you love most about your P.MAI bag?

That it is elegant and practical at the same time, and it doesn’t look like a  regular backpack.