What do you do when you're not blogging? What is your job?

Emily: I'm a professional nerd! I'm a PhD student studying religion through the lenses of anthropology and history, so I get to think for a living. For fun I read and write a lot, wander around Chicago, take photos, exercise, run an Etsy shop, and generally think way too much and ask too many questions.

How did you come up with your blog name?

Emily: I wanted something that related to my love for words and writing, as well as to clothing. Out of that was born sartoriography. Also, I have undying affection for jokingly pretentious language and "sartoriography" sure fits the bill! The "about" section of my blog actually elaborates on that.

How would you describe your personal style?

Emily: It's all over the place- a bit folksy, a bit boho, nerdy, sometimes a little French (or at least we Americans think of as French). There are hipster elements there. I love dresses, rich fall colors, natural shapes. I'm drawn to badass, rockery styles, but I like to temper them with softer things.

Whose style, past or present, influences your style?

Emily: Everyone's! My grandmother and her sister, who were so chic despite their lack of wealth; my mom, my friends, other bloggers. I love Lou Dillon, La Roux, Sienna Miller, and 70's folk musicians; African women, with their bold prints; Katherine Hepburn, Frida Kahlo, Yoko Ono.

Which label dominates your closet?

Emily: I don't really have a "label." In fact, I'm pretty anti brand loyalty. I've got things from all over the place and usually buy what seems well made and suits my fancy, regardless of brand. Though, to make a liar of myself, I have to say that I have a major weakness for Dooney and Bourke bags.

What would be the one fashion tip you would give to a friend?

Emily: Always find a balance between what looks good and feel good. There's something to be said for a style that makes you feel sexy or comfortable or sassy, even if that isn't on-trend or even necessarily meant for someone of your size, shape, etc. Feeling good really translates to looking good.

Where are you from and what are your top three favorite places to shop in your city?

Emily: I grew up in South Carolina and have lived in Europe and Africa, but these days I call Chicago home. My favorite places to shop here are the countless thrift stores, rummage sales, and small independent boutiques Chicago has to offer. This city is a dream for people who love resale!

3 fun facts about you:

Emily: 1: I'm an ardent vegetarian and have been turning my nose up at meat since I was about 12. :) 2: I lived in Southern Africa for several years, where I worked on HIV and AIDS education. 3: When I was a girl I was obsessed with Nancy Drew. I constantly planned how I was going to become a detective.

What are you currently grooving to?

Emily: This question is as hard as the style influences! A random assortment: Edward Sharpe, Freelance Whales, Iron and Wine, The Beatles, John Lennon, Lhasa, Lali Puna, Dr. Dog, Gil Scott Heron, La Roux, James Brown, Pink Floyd, Mahler, Menomena, Lone Wolf, Wild Beasts, Fela Kuti, Burial Sun Ra...

Great fashion steal:

Emily: A vintage Aramani blazer, which I thrifted for $4. It's impeccably made and will last the rest of my life- and look good for the rest of it, too! I also just got a mint condition Dooney and Bourke satchel for $1. I love it the way you'd love a child, which is creepy but totally true. :)