La Dolce Vita has been influencing designers and brands for a decade now, with Texas-based interior designer Paloma Contreras setting the tone as the blogger behind the blog. She and her work have appeared across media, including Architectural Digest, House Beautiful, Luxe Interiors + Design, Domino and more, and she has collaborated with brands like One Kings Lane, Serena & Lily and Miele. Contreras, a Houstonian herself, shares her take on blogging, the regional design scene, and what would-be design bloggers should know before setting out on their own.
Contreras says of the local design scene, “Texas is interesting in that it can be traditional and very Southern, but it is also very progressive and forward-thinking. As a result, there isn’t a ‘Texas Look,’ and there are so many different and interesting projects out there. We have a lot of talented designers in our great state as well as a multitude of fantastic showrooms, retail shops and artisans based here.”
She says starting La Dolce Vita was “one of the best decisions I have ever made,” leading to personal growth, friendships and even the launch of her design career and self-named firm. What are some of the other highlights? “Meeting some of my closest friends, being named a Next Wave designer by House Beautiful, one of Luxe’s “10 Design Talents to Watch,” and the No. 4 Top Influencer in the Home category by Forbes. Next fall, my first book will be published by Abrams, which is also thanks to my blog.”
Aspiring bloggers, Contreras advises, ought to focus on “authenticity and consistency.” She explains, “It is important to remain authentic to your voice and point of view in order to build an invested audience that feels that they can relate to you. Consistency is also paramount,” she shares, noting that “to build a real following, you will need to post at minimum, three times a week.” The work doesn’t stop there, says Contreras: “Remember to network and get to know other design bloggers and design enthusiasts in your area!”
