I joined the Midwest Style Blogger network about a year ago, and
since then have made new friends, received so much support, found a ton of
great blogs to follow, and more specifically learned there are loads of
talented Chicago-based bloggers. One windy city favorite is Gold
Coast Girl by Samantha
Kramer. The two of us share similarities such as a love for fashion, hot pink,
Rob Lowe, brunette power, and that whole Midwestern thing.

As I could see myself swapping
everything from wardrobes to taste buds with Samantha, I thought I’d ask her a
few questions about herself and her colorful blog Gold
Coast Girl. 

Why did you decide to start blogging?

I have always had an obsession with fashion ever since I was little. I
am a huge fan of reading fashion blogs so one day I just went for it and
decided to start my own. I wanted to express my own voice, style, and
creativity. 

What is a shopping weakness?

Bags. I hoard them and seem to feel like I can never have enough. I am
always in the market for a new one and am currently crushing on this Loeffler
Randal one for fall. 

Snack weakness?

I don’t discriminate when it comes to cheese. I like it with crackers or
even plain.  

Do you have a special recipe or favorite food
you make often you’d like to share?

Mexican food is my favorite and I always try to put a healthy spin on whatever
I cook. This Chopped Chicken Taco Salad recipe
is super easy, healthy, and delicious. 

Do you have a favorite book you like to
recommend to your girlfriends?

Gone Girl was pretty good. It was super suspenseful and I
even think they are making a movie of it. Can’t wait 😉

Me too! Oh and Ben Affleck will be there so…
Anyway, is there a beauty or skincare item you can’t live without?

I am all about my Clinique De-Puffing Eye Serum.
I use it every morning. It does a great job of getting rid of dark circles,
de-puffing, and waking me up.

Can you recommend any
bloggers or celebs you look to for style inspiration or tips?

I love the style of Olivia Palermo, Rachel Zoe, and Kourtney Kardashian.
They are effortlessly chic and always on trend. In the blogger world I am
loving Atlantic-Pacificand B
Soup. They both have fun, funky styles and are fierce fashionable
ladies!

Do you have a go-to outfit?

I don’t have a go-to outfit, but usually when I feel like I have nothing
to wear, I gravitate towards all things I love: black, denim, gold, leopard,
sequined, or hot pink (you can’t always combine them!). I feel like my style is
a mix of preppy + feminine with a splash of edge. 

What’s an ideal date night for you and your
husband?

I love checking out new restaurants in my neighborhood and eating
outside (when the weather cooperates). I also like trying new activities with
him like a cooking class or glass blowing class. Those are fun too! 

How about an ideal evening spent with the
girls?

We like to get together at each other’s houses and do themed pot luck
dinner dates. Lots of fun and lots of wine 😉

Lastly, do you have any advice for bloggers?

I think it is important to stay true to yourself and your style. Be
consistent with what you are writing because your blog is a true representation
of yourself. People are judgmental, but just ignore the haters
because you are fabulous!