#KetchupTalks: "Create content that has some value", says Fashion Influencer Archana Dhankar

Fashion influencer Archana Dhankar chats with us as she shares her motivation and inspiration behind getting into content creation and fashion.

Archana Dhankar is a Fashion, Lifestyle, Travel Blogger, and Entrepreneur who started her blog "Fashion For Royals" about 8 years ago. Archana began her blog with a motive of providing women with useful fashion and lifestyle tips that will make their everyday-fashion-game strong. Even after moving to London, she has always tried to remain connected to her roots and thus her content is a perfect mix of Indian and western styles.

Over the years, she has worked with various National (Abhinav Mishra, Payal Singhal, Masaba Gupta) and International (Foreo, Benefit cosmetics, Dior, Charles & Keith) brands and has delivered amazing content. She believes that staying true to one's personality and beliefs are very important while creating content as it helps the audience to relate with you more. We recently interviewed her and got an insight into what drives her passion for content creation and more.

Here's what Archana Dhankar had to share:

What made you start creating content, and when did you begin?

"In my teenage years, I would often struggle with fashion choices, as most of us do. I always used to think why isn’t there a place where I can get fashion inspiration and style tips. It was since that time, I somewhere knew that I wanted to do something around fashion. As time went on, I started getting intrigued by content creation so; I decided to combine the two and started FashionForRoyals in 2012."

What according to you, makes your content stand out?

"I think what makes my content stand out is that I always focus on giving some value back to the audience, be it through my Instagram or my blog. I want that when someone comes to my profile or blog, they should find something that can be used in their daily life or that helps them in some way. Another thing is that I create content, keeping in mind my target audience. As an influencer, it is vital to be well aware of your audience and what they want to see and then create content according to that."

How do your Indian roots help you create globally-appealing content?

I consider myself lucky that I got the opportunity to live in two completely different cultures, and I think that reflects in my content as well. In my opinion, to make your mark in a non-native country, one has to be a bit different, and that’s where my Indian roots have helped me a lot.

I understand both my Indian and UK audience and know what type of content they want. I make sure I have a balance of both Indian and Western cultures on my feed to keep adding value to both my followers."

One instance/experience that made it all worthwhile?

"Every comment where I have helped someone even in a small way is what makes this worthwhile. I started this channel to help people and that is the most important goal I am aiming to fulfill every day."

What would be your everyday go-to look?

"On a regular day, my top priority while dressing up is to be comfortable, so my everyday go-to look is a nice blouse or a top with a pair of baggy jeans. If I am feeling dressy maybe I’ll go to a lovely flowy dress."

What is the one Indian accessory that goes well with most outfits?

"I think a bohemian silver necklace is that one Indian accessory that goes well with most outfits as it is so versatile. You can pair it with shirts, ethnic outfits & even your dresses and it will instantly take your outfit to the next level."

How do you make moolahs?

"I make moolahs through brand partnerships and marketing consultation with brands on their influencer marketing and digital marketing strategies."

Where do you find your inspiration from?

"Travel is my source of inspiration as it opens my mind to new possibilities. I sometimes also find my inspiration from the nature around us."

Do you enjoy creating content with your son? How involved is he in the process?

"I love creating content with him, but I only do it when he willingly wants to be in front of the camera. I always make sure this is all part of the fun for him.

To my surprise, he is very active and involved whenever we are creating content together, and loves being in front of the camera. Sometimes when I am shooting, he comes to me and asks if he can be a part of the shoot as well. He loves it so much that he has got his own YouTube channel now."

Besides being an influencer, what's your full-time profession?

"My full-time profession is marketing, and influencer marketing in form is also an extension of the same."

Any message/tips for upcoming bloggers and influencers?

"Be true to your style & niche and always enjoy your work as the audience can quickly tell when you are not. Create content that has some value for your audience and give them a reason to keep coming back. Don’t always follow the trends and try to fit in, be unique as that is what makes you stand out.

5 styling tips for fashion lovers

• Always put comfort before trends.

• Invest in some staple pieces.

• Choose clothes that compliment your body shape.

• Never underestimate the power of accessories, as sometimes a simple accessory can jazz-up an outfit.

• Always re-style your outfits to create new looks.

Here's how Archana responded to our Quick 5:

 Your favourite meme template on social media? 

"I like the 'how it started and how it's going' meme template." 

One celebrity you want to collaborate with?

"Priyanka Chopra - she is an inspiration & motivation." 

Your personal favourite Influencer?

"Masoom Minawala, I love her energy."

Weirdest or funniest comment you have received?

"The one I find strange is people sometimes still confuse me with being a fashion designer." 

One app you spend the most time on?

"Other than Instagram - Whatsapp"

Follow Archana Dhankar on Instagram (@fashionforroyals) to find inspiration and the latest trends in fashion, lifestyle and travel.

Also Read: Fashion Influencer Pranay Anand talks about creating niche content for fashion, lifestyle and self-development