Francis Lola AKA Flamcis

Social Media is a nirvana for all-things fashion and beauty right?  You’d think it would difficult to differentiate yourself amongst others in this virtual space.  However, that isn’t the case for this style blogger and content creator. Francis Lola, aka Flamcis, known for her edgy yet feminine style, continues to attract the attention of her viewers and followers worldwide. With over 250K followers, Flamcis has her followers on edge waiting for her next 'OOTD' post or fashion look.  But her fashion isn’t the only thing intriguing about Flamcis, it’s her positive energy and sweet attitude that draws us in.  With that being said, we had the wonderful opportunity to interview Flamcis. Down below you can find some questions to get to know one of the freshest and most down to earth fashion influencer. 

Q: Let's start off with the popular, most eagerly asked question: When and how did it all begin? What got you motivated to embark on running a fashion blog?

I’ve honestly always been interested in fashion! I loved clothes and how it made me feel when I wore something I loved. I had been wanting to start blogging back in 2008 or 2009. I had come across Aimee Song’s blog and thought it was so cool that she was documenting everything she wore and talked about her personal style. It really sparked my interest in blogging. Back then, blogging wasn’t a big thing and I didn’t have the motivation or confidence to start one until 2014. With the help of Instagram and encouragement from friends and family, I started my blog in February of 2014 and have been blogging ever since!

Q: There is always a special, significant meaning behind a blog's name. Can you please share the story or meaning behind your blog name Flamcis? 

It’s actually a nickname I got in high school. That was just my username for everything. So when I started an Instagram and gained a following, people had already gotten to know me and recognized me as Flamcis. I decided to just keep it because, well, how many other people do you know go by Flamcis?

Q: You are such a well-loved and embraced fashion stylist around the world by loyal followers and fans! Do you have any personal inspirations or fashion bloggers that you look up to and/or admire?

Dare to be different! Don’t be afraid to try anything new. Be fearless. Be adventurous and rebellious with your style. Go the extra mile. Even if it means standing on your chair to get that perfect birdseye shot of your dinner! And lastly, always, always, always be yourself! Don’t change for anyone.

For me, I admire any bloggers in the industry that are working their  butts off. You can truly tell who is really hustling and making moves. I have so much respect for people in the industry who push themselves to do better and aim higher. It pushes me and makes me feel like I’m not doing enough for myself.

Q: To get to know you on a more fun and personal level, what is your favorite movie, food/drink, place, book, and color? 

Mean Girls and Devil Wears Prada are two movies I will never get sick of. I LOVE eating shabu shabu. I can have it even if its 110 degrees outside. I’m always craving milk tea. Black milk tea or jasmine green milk tea. My favorite place as of lately has been home. I just moved into a bigger bedroom with my boyfriend and we’re in the process of revamping little details. I’ve been loving staying at home and cook, watch netflix, or stare at my new shoe wall that my boyfriend built for me, haha. Unfortunately, I don’t read much so I don’t have a favorite book. My favorite color is a blush pink.

Q: It’s said that a photo speaks a thousand words. A fashion blogger is largely based on the great photos they provide for their followers, and an important aspect of that is choosing the right photographer. How did you and your photographer meet? 

I have a few that I work with. My very first photographer, Kimly, I met through friends. We became really good friends and I learned that he wanted to try out photography. That’s when I wanted to start shooting outfit photos, so it was perfect. We worked well together because we were already such good friends and comfortable giving each other critique. Another photographer I work with is Azusa Takano. I met her through another blogger. I work with Azusa mostly for my blog photos. And lastly, my boyfriend. He shoots a lot of my Instagram photos when I need. He’s always been into photography so its a perfect match!

Q: Following up on the previous question, do you and your photographer balance each other out? How is your dynamic when shooting? 

I get along with all my photographers really well. We’ve built a friendship and trust amongst each other. They make shooting outfits easy and they are easy to work with. They’re also cautious and in tune with my needs and expectations when it comes to my photos.

Q: Your fashion style is unique & vintage-based! Every look you do has its own individualistic touch. Does it ever become difficult to come up with such exclusive looks every time, or does it just come naturally? 

It usually comes naturally. I’m easily inspired by a lot of things I see. I’m constantly on Instagram and Tumblr checking out photos and getting inspiration for my own style. I love to take things I see every day and turn it into my own. There are some days, however, where I’m just completely lost on how I feel like dressing that day. My outfits usually stem from my mood that morning, and if I’m being indecisive about how I want to look, it could take me forever to get dressed!

Q: Fashion blogging definitely requires a lot of time and dedication. Has it in any way affected your career? Has it lead you in a new direction in life? 

Definitely. Before I started blogging, I was in school and worked as a merchandising assistant at a corporate fashion company. I was also waitressing at restaurants for extra money. I was aiming for the 9-5 job at an office like most people do after they finish school. Once I started blogging, it really changed my life in the best way possible. I’ve met so many amazing people and have been given so many opportunities that I would only dream of before.  It definitely lead me in a new direction in life and I’m glad it did.

Q: We can’t help but notice the positive vibes that is clearly reflected on your blog. What motivates or inspires you to present the happy heart and optimism you hold? 

I’ve always been an optimist. I love positive vibes and being around positive people. I feel it really is contagious. I also feel like I’m in a good place in my life. I honestly have nothing to complain about and am just really happy with where I am. So I guess you can say that my positive energy is organic!

Q: Lastly, there are so many up and coming bloggers looking to make their break in the fashion world, what advice would you give the next generation of young fashion-seeking bloggers?

There’s a lot to compete with, but you have nothing to lose. If you work hard, give it your all, and try to be one step ahead of everyone else, you can really do well. Set goals for yourself, don’t be afraid, and make statements. Also, don’t forget to be nice!

We wanted to thank Flamcis for taking the time to share her wonderful journey with us. It has been such an honor to work with such a talented stylist / blogger these past 3 years! 

Xoxo,
zeroUV