When it comes to styling, Danielle Ward is a sucker for details. So it’s little wonder her Instagram is hella on-point, with a beautifully co-ordinated grid full of outfit inspiration, arty collages and quotes to make you ponder. Here, the content creator and fashion stylist reveals the secrets behind her oh-so-chic @littlefashbird account…
What’s your secret to a gorgeous grid?
I’ve only recently nailed a vibe that’s totally me – I’m a firm believer in taking the time to really work out what it is you want to show and how you want your feed to feel. Mine is a combo of me and my style via outfits, my styling work, a little bit of design and a peppering of quotes. I’d recommend working out what type of posts really bring you joy and thinking about what you love about others’ feeds, then apply in your own way.
How do you decide what to post next on your grid?
The majority of the time, I post on a day to day basis. If I’ve got no collaborations in the diary, it really is dependant on how my week is. I might not have a chance to take an outfit shot one week, for example, so I’ll find a few lovely quotes instead, some shots of any recent styling campaigns I adore, a couple of my mood boards… I’m careful not to have the same type of shot next to each other so there’s variety to my grid. I’ll always have a look at how posts sit together on the brilliant planning app, Snug. And I love to play with different colour palettes. I totally geek out over a beautifully colour coordinated set of little squares!
“I totally geek out over a beautifully colour coordinated set of little squares!”
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What’s your advice for getting the perfect outfit shot?
I am by no means an expert, but for me, a minimal backdrop is key (maybe with a pop of colour that you know sits within your current grid), some movement to make the shot feel slightly raw and candid, great lighting and a photographer that knows what you love. And isn’t worried about standing in the middle of the road/taking 10 x million shots/getting down low AND directs when they think something will look cute.
Do you work with a pro photographer?
I have a lot of epic humans around me who are handy with a camera, and most importantly, know what I like. Plus, we’ll take one for each other, so we both get that shot. If I’ve a big campaign, I’ll enlist the help of a pro, but generally speaking my feed is very organic and low key – a phone pic is often best because it feels genuine and not too staged. I use photography apps like VSCO, Snapseed and Facetune for sharpening details.
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We love your arty collages too! How do they fit into your grid?
They’re something I’ve been doing for such a long time, and they often don’t get as many likes as an outfit post, but they just make me so happy. It feels right for what I do and where I’m at in my career to share them, and they keep my feed fresh. I adore so many accounts that are more of a portfolio, so it’s fab to add a little of that vibe to my own.
How do you find quotes that aren’t overshared?
It’s just a case of only sharing the ones that truly resonate. If it feels true to you, then that’s all the matters, cliché or not.
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What’s your advice for brands wanting to work with influencers?
It’s mainly down to the brand knowing WHY they want to work with you. What is it about my feed/account/me that is right for them? Brands that truly research and understand what your USP is are the ones that are such a joy to collaborate with, as you have the freedom to create in your way, for them.
“Brands that truly research and understand what your USP is are the ones that are such a joy to collaborate with.”
How has IG helped your styling career?
It’s ace to have a lovely, permanent portfolio that potential clients can take a look at whenever. It’s also ALWAYS about spreading the love – if clients share, team members share AND I share, we’re helping each other and you can reach such a wide audience. It’s always a collaboration and I’m very proud of everything I do so it’s a joy to be able to share.
Where do you find inspo for styling work?
I’m a Pinterest addict. I fall into pinning binges daily! It’s so amazing for all types of inspo. Plus via the feeds of all the women (and men) I love to follow – I’ve many a Saved folder under a multitude of titles that I refer back to regularly.
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Which accounts are your grid goals?
I love SO MANY, but to name a few: @iamlaurenmahon @lucywilliams02 @calliethorpe @ninasandbech @chloeplumstead @emmahoareau @lisa.olssons @filis_pina @mie_juel @vivianhoorn @reemkanj @julesvonhep @lucysheridan @livpurvis.
Apart from your grid, in what ways do you use Stories?
I LOVE Stories. They are such an opportunity to be creative and have fun, as well as build on your ‘theme’ and voice. I often use Stories more, and may not post on the grid even if I’m super active on there. I love to use them to share others’ posts, show people what I’m doing (whether that’s styling a shoot or hanging out with my nephew), let people know when I’ve bought something I think they’ll love… I am contemplating using Stories more for work, too, with shopping videos, styling how-tos, behind-the-scenes content at personal styling sessions. So stay tuned for more of my face!
Any tips for building an engaged audience?
Stay true to you always, be consistent on both the grid and Stories, and engage with others. Comment when you love an outfit, when someone’s brand collab is epic, when you are touched by something. It works both ways, and supporting others is everything.
