Ask Rachel ⋆ That's Chic

Karen wrote on May 2, 2019 at 5:12 am:

Hey Rachel, I've been watching your videos for a long time and one of the things I admire about you is your ease in front of a camera. Whether it be in videos or when you're taking pictures with friends. Was it hard for you to be confident in front of the camera? If so, how did you overcome it?

Admin Reply by: Rachel

IDK, I've literally been in front of it so long that it doesn't phase me. like 12 years doing this kinda thing. I naturally, in my personality and DNA and horoscope, just do not and have never encountered a shyness from being extra and sharing myself.

Lucía wrote on April 30, 2019 at 9:23 pm:

Hi Rachel! I will really like to know what sneakers do you use for everyday? I always see you in heels but I need a new sneakers if you could give me any advice! Love you ♥

Admin Reply by: Rachel

i don't love sneakers, but right now, i wear reeboks. i couldn't tell you what style other than white - heh.

paige j wrote on April 29, 2019 at 7:44 pm:

hi Rachel! been wanting to shoot film for a while but not quite sure where to start, it can be a bit overwhelming when researching on the interwebs? I had an old camera from my mom but the shutter is broken and I found out it would be more expensive to fix than to just buy a nice used one that works 🙂 so--back to square one! would you recommend going with a point and shoot? or a nicer SLR with a lens? just curious what kind of film camera you use and what you would recommend to someone who wants to get into shooting 35mm 🙂 thanks!!

Admin Reply by: Rachel

i would just get a point and shoot, that's what I used. as far as learning how to use an SLR, i would practice on a digital one first so you can see in live time what aperture and f-stop does to photos, and then take that knowledge to film once you feel more secure!

B wrote on April 27, 2019 at 5:26 pm:

Hi Rachel!! I love and continue to draw I inspiration from your videos. This is such a randomly specific question but you have this huge silky green srunchie—where is it from? It looks so perfect! The color, the weight, the finish. It’s the perfect accessory and I need to know! Thank you :)))

Admin Reply by: Rachel

thank you! wow i get asked about that one a lot, it's just from a large bin at my local Larchmont beauty store. it felt like fishing, idk if they have just that type exclusively there, but would check it out for sure!

Ashley wrote on April 23, 2019 at 4:31 am:

Hey rachel! In your most recent video, I saw one of your posters that reads, "SEX TAPE," where is it from? Also Love your videos<3

Hey rachel! In your most recent video, I saw one of your posters that reads, "SEX TAPE," where is it from?
Also Love your videos<3

Admin Reply by: Rachel

i stole it from a magazine in paris

Sabrina wrote on April 17, 2019 at 3:49 am:

Hey Rachel! How's your 30 by 30 going so far?

Admin Reply by: Rachel

getting my seeds planted now that I'm finally ALONE and in my own headspace. (weston no longer WFH and I am not consulting anyone rn and also wrapped up a big travel trip!)

val wrote on April 8, 2019 at 5:38 pm:

Hi, Rachel. I suggest you can do weekly vlog, which is much less stressful and you do not need to do it every week lol. I really like your vlog! I watch them every day.

Admin Reply by: Rachel

aw thank you for watching! yes i really need to implement it into a habit. dlkfjdklagjhrt

Qingqing wrote on March 26, 2019 at 5:50 am:

Hi Rachel, greetings from China! I've been following you since I study in the UK, where, for the very first time I got access to YouTube. It's been six years, and I still enjoy your contents. Sometimes I watch those videos over and over again to get inspirations. Thank you for your sharing and efforts. I would really like to see a Spring/Summer Edition Skincare or MakeUp video. As new season is right on the way, We need your guidance! Will you do that ? All the best and I love you as always ❤️

Admin Reply by: Rachel

good idea! thank you for the sweet words 🙂 while youtube is censored in china, i am grateful that somehow, there is still an audience there that rebels to watch me.

Marina wrote on March 15, 2019 at 11:03 am:

Hiii, I am really thinking quitting my job to start living a life that I really enjoy to live so as a designer maybe I will try freelancing and a big project that I have in mind. I know that will be difficult times speacilly money related, how did you manage the difficult no-money times? X

Admin Reply by: Rachel

Something that's helped me is having a savings account and knowing how much I need a month to survive. I kind of gauge my spending based off of what I have, what I'm about to earn (or lack there of), and spend frugally accordingly, and splurge when I can!

Brianna wrote on March 14, 2019 at 9:55 pm:

Hey, I just recently discovered you and I have fallen in love with your visual mood board videos. I have tried to google how to create them into a video but have come up short. I see in a previous question you use final cut pro but do you think you can go more in depth on the process in a directional sense for people like myself who want to make out own but don't understand how you take all these pictures and videos and make them into something amazing. Especially the frames where the picture is within the video.

Admin Reply by: Rachel

Hiii Brianna ~ thank you! Haha the thing is with these programs is that you'll never find a recipe for how someone makes something. The way I've always learned how to use programs like FCPx or Photoshop is literally google. I know you googled it, but I would stem it more from your own ideas and urges. It makes for better work too. Such as, instead of googling "how to make a mood board video" google "how to layer image over video in fcpx". You'll find things like this: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=y4vPlm39irM And this is ultimately how I learn how to make cool effects. I probably google 3-6 tutorials each video. Gotta put in the work and curiosity and learn it for yourself.

Hannah Dinero wrote on March 11, 2019 at 6:15 am:

Hi Rachel 🙂 You've inspired me for years and I think you have some of the most original and creative content on the Internet. On your Vlogmas Day 8 video you mentioned that photography isn't a skill you're great at but that you're good at visuals (PS you ARE an amazing photographer). But I feel the same way in that I'm not a traditionally trained photographer or designer, but I know I can produce attractive/effective content. I recently graduated from college and am pursuing a career in fashion -- how can I use this asset to my advantage? If you have any advice on how to brand "being good at visuals" in a professional tone, I would love to hear it. Cheers, Hannah

Admin Reply by: Rachel

Hi Hannah ~ Thank you so much for the sweet words. I guess to give a quickie answer (because I really don't want this to open up to an intense advice column lol), you say that about my work only because you see it, you've seen the mood and curation I've captured through the photos or video I've been a part of. The only way to really start the branding of your own work is to keep making stuff, publish it, and keep your work cohesive but experimental. No matter what, if you're making things purely from your soul, it will look cohesive. It only strays away when you're trying too hard to emulate a look or other work. Hope that helps! TL;DR: put work out, people will see, that's it. Rachel

ThatsChic Subscriber wrote on March 3, 2019 at 10:37 pm:

What are some ways to elevate your look? Do you ever feel bad about spending on material items before saving the money or buying a home (versus renting)?

What are some ways to elevate your look?
Do you ever feel bad about spending on material items before saving the money or buying a home (versus renting)?

Admin Reply by: Rachel

good jewelry to elevate and no, but i'm sure down the line, i might.

Emily wrote on February 25, 2019 at 10:50 pm:

Hi I love the music in your vlogs. Can you please make a Spotify playlist

Admin Reply by: Rachel

i'm raychnguyen on spotify and if you search rachel nguyen, there are a few playlists!

Bella Mannray wrote on January 24, 2019 at 1:26 am:

Hi Rachel, I love your Visual Moodboard youtube video. What app did you use to compile and edit the videos and images?

Hi Rachel,
I love your Visual Moodboard youtube video. What app did you use to compile and edit the videos and images?

Admin Reply by: Rachel

FCPx! x

Jaclyn wrote on January 23, 2019 at 8:11 pm:

What are your favorite yoga studios in LA? Specifically around mid-city West/Miracle Mile/Larchmont if you have any? Just moved to the area and having a hard time finding a good yoga studio that isn't hot yoga. Thank you!

What are your favorite yoga studios in LA? Specifically around mid-city West/Miracle Mile/Larchmont if you have any?

Just moved to the area and having a hard time finding a good yoga studio that isn't hot yoga.

Thank you!

Admin Reply by: Rachel

I like Yogaworks on Larchmont! But I more drive to Hollywood (Set and Flow and SweatTheory [it's hot yoga, but I love this class]) or Silverlake (One Down Dog) xx Also try Classpass to explore studios until you find one you like! http://class.ps/lI2ZH

Nath wrote on January 20, 2019 at 3:31 pm:

Hi Rachel. I love your videos especially when you're strolling around the neighbourhood (with your bike it's awsome!). Could you do one with your favorite places in LA? Thanks and see you.

Admin Reply by: Rachel

Thank you Nath 🙂 I have made one! https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=VZnlnDd0Q2g xxx

al wrote on January 19, 2019 at 10:27 am:

what book(s) would you recommend that changed your life?

Admin Reply by: Rachel

TBH, I don't read, but I listen to podcasts if you go to this episode of vlogmas! https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=iLa-frg5pDM

JJ wrote on January 18, 2019 at 6:36 am:

which Kosas duo do you use? So pretty

Admin Reply by: Rachel

I lost it 🙁 but if I were to guess... I think it's this one: https://kosas.com/products/helios

cherrypie wrote on January 16, 2019 at 2:41 am:

Ahh you're back answering questions! This makes me v v happy. Thank you Rach! Firstly I want to say I absolutely lovee your videos. It always feels so fresh and provides such a nice insight into part of your life, I always feel so privileged. I can tell you are passionate about what you do, but have there ever been times you felt a bit unmotivated or stuck? How do you get out of that zone? I sometimes find myself this way when faced with a large challenge and my insecurities kick in. I end up not wanting to get the job done because I'm scared. Thank you in advance. You're a babe xxx

Ahh you're back answering questions! This makes me v v happy. Thank you Rach! Firstly I want to say I absolutely lovee your videos. It always feels so fresh and provides such a nice insight into part of your life, I always feel so privileged.

I can tell you are passionate about what you do, but have there ever been times you felt a bit unmotivated or stuck? How do you get out of that zone? I sometimes find myself this way when faced with a large challenge and my insecurities kick in. I end up not wanting to get the job done because I'm scared. Thank you in advance. You're a babe xxx

Admin Reply by: Rachel

Hi love, yes babe, I am here. I am present. I am seen for you to feel seen. I feel more passionate than ever! But I definitely had a lump of time that I wasn't. Sometimes, it's okay to let your mind and soul go through those shifts. What's helping me right now is getting my life reorganized and once that ball gets going it's hard to stop. I'm resetting and whilst I'm doing so, I'm starting to write down all my goals, big or small. And after braindumping, I take a look at the list and think how can I make them into smaller, bite sized goals. Having daily, hourly, micro accomplishments (even if it's something as small as crossing off a task to research something for 30 minutes) helps keep me motivated in daunting goals. Hope that helps bb xx

Babe wrote on January 14, 2019 at 11:22 am:

Favorite TV show(s)?

Admin Reply by: Rachel

Breaking Bad was my all-time, and always The Office 🙂 I enjoyed Big Little Lies and Narcos in more recent times.

T wrote on January 13, 2019 at 5:32 am:

Hey Rachel, I'm thinking of starting an e-com biz (ie. starting my own online shop) with dropshipping. Not totally sure what I'll be selling yet, but I'm thinking lifestyle products (home stuff, decor, skincare, accessories etc). Do you have any advice on what you think makes a great online shop? Thank you 🙂

Admin Reply by: Rachel

Hm, I think a mix of everything as long as its a good point of view! I don't limit to liking or thinking just one forumalic way works. It's all in execution as long as it feels focused and inspiring! 🙂 Good luck with it. A good year to start xxx

ali wrote on January 12, 2019 at 5:37 pm:

Hi Rachel! Thank you for your great content. Really enjoyed Vlogmas 2018. I was wondering, what is the earring you always had in your right(?) ear, that little dangly diamond-looking one? I couldn’t find it in your descriptions/comments, sorry if you already answered!

Admin Reply by: Rachel

Yes! They're from Marida 🙂 https://maridajewelry.com/products/sparks-studs

Grace wrote on January 10, 2019 at 5:34 pm:

Hello Rach! I'm thinking of (possibly) moving to Los Angeles. Any tips on living in the city? and what are the pros and cons? P.S. If you could live in a city besides LA, where would it be? 🙂 Best, Grace

Hello Rach!
I'm thinking of (possibly) moving to Los Angeles. Any tips on living in the city? and what are the pros and cons?

P.S. If you could live in a city besides LA, where would it be? 🙂

Best,
Grace

Admin Reply by: Rachel

I would definitely love to give NY or Paris a go. LA is a miserable paradise. It's hard to adjust to the driving (although I'm used to it) and the sparseness of the city. Find close people. The diamonds you uncover here are worth more than the many rubies and emeralds in other cities.

Saldon wrote on December 22, 2018 at 6:11 am:

I know work and YT videos keep you busy, but I miss reading your blog posts. Hope you come back soon! xx

Admin Reply by: Rachel

Me too! xxx

B wrote on December 17, 2018 at 8:23 am:

Hi Raych. I'm 25 yrs old now.. and all my life I never really lived in my true self.. My personality (that also includes my hobby, fav colour, behavior, etc.) changed ALL THE TIME according to whom I idolized at the moment - and of course you're one of them haha. Good thing about you is that you always embrace individuality/originality, and that's what I'm striving for right now.. Since I'm a sagittarius myself I think it is fair to get a bit of advice from another sagi. So what should I do? It's the end of 2018 already! I cannot be like this for the rest of my life :((( Thanks in advance xx

Hi Raych. I'm 25 yrs old now.. and all my life I never really lived in my true self.. My personality (that also includes my hobby, fav colour, behavior, etc.) changed ALL THE TIME according to whom I idolized at the moment - and of course you're one of them haha. Good thing about you is that you always embrace individuality/originality, and that's what I'm striving for right now.. Since I'm a sagittarius myself I think it is fair to get a bit of advice from another sagi. So what should I do? It's the end of 2018 already! I cannot be like this for the rest of my life :(((

Thanks in advance xx

Admin Reply by: Rachel

Aw, I wanna give you a hug. You have so much love to give, so give it to yourself a little. Take a break from IG for a while, unless you need to work on it, but even so, find your boundaries. Know your limits. The love of admiration can go into the act of comparison. It's okay that you watch people that help you get into new things! We're all a combined energy of what we surround ourselves with. What I do when I start getting to that point is putting up blinders. "What does Rachel want to do today" "What do I realllllly like, like REALLLLY like. Let me sit on that for a while without trying to take notes from other people". Being honest with yourself. Like really, let yourself. Figure your life story, what makes you tick and why you are latching on, maybe there's something/someone/moment...

Min wrote on December 12, 2018 at 5:29 am:

Hey Rachel! I hope you are having an amazing day so far (and also had a wonderful birthday <3). I have been loving your vlogmases and really appreciate your authenticity. What are your advices for times when you're doubting yourself? I'm in my early-mid twenties, and I've been having a hard time appreciating myself; I feel a bit lost and also can't help but comparing myself to others. I also have been single for awhile which doesn't help the way I'm feeling, but I understand that "you are not ready for a relationship when you aren't in love with yourself." What are your thoughts? P.S. sending you positive vibes from Virginia xoxo

Hey Rachel! I hope you are having an amazing day so far (and also had a wonderful birthday <3). I have been loving your vlogmases and really appreciate your authenticity. What are your advices for times when you're doubting yourself? I'm in my early-mid twenties, and I've been having a hard time appreciating myself; I feel a bit lost and also can't help but comparing myself to others. I also have been single for awhile which doesn't help the way I'm feeling, but I understand that "you are not ready for a relationship when you aren't in love with yourself." What are your thoughts?
P.S. sending you positive vibes from Virginia xoxo

Admin Reply by: Rachel

Allowing trust and giving love is not easy. It's a practice that gets more natural the more you apply it. One of the ways I like to remind myself how much I appreciate myself, is taking the time to eat well, cook for myself, work out, treat myself, indulge in my wants. In the process, I've started to get to know myself and the things I value. Also I love being around reciprocating energy and loving/appreciating others. It's a really big question to ask, hard to tackle through these Q&As, maybe a video to tackle down the line. In short, take care of yourself right now. A physical action of love towards yourself will emotionally manifest before you can take another step. Just trying to give you a small and doable action for now. You'll see the difference. I promise.

Thats chic subscriber wrote on December 9, 2018 at 12:47 am:

Who was the person mentioned in your bullet journal that has since been blurred out in the journal entry?

Admin Reply by: Rachel

Why would it matter? It's my diary entry. *sigh* the nerve sometimes...

Ardash wrote on December 1, 2018 at 12:33 pm:

No question. Just wanted to let you know how much I enjoy your content. It makes me feel inspired & a little less lonely in a weird 21st century kinda way. Lots of love for the new year xx Ps. excited for vlogmas!!

No question. Just wanted to let you know how much I enjoy your content. It makes me feel inspired & a little less lonely in a weird 21st century kinda way.

Lots of love for the new year xx

Ps. excited for vlogmas!!

Admin Reply by: Rachel

Thank you for this xxxxx HNY! I'm excited for this year xx

Lili wrote on November 26, 2018 at 1:44 am:

Hey Rachel! I love all your content. I find myself rewatching your vlogs whenever I'm feeling down on life because it forces me to be appreciative of the small things. Speaking of, wondering where you got your black slip/chemise that you wear in your 2017 Vlogmas videos? I want one 😉

Admin Reply by: Rachel

Plz DM a screenshot

It Me wrote on November 7, 2018 at 9:46 pm:

Hi Rachel! Is there a certain year or stage of your life that you get particularly nostalgic for? Obviously not in a manner of dwelling, but more so like a "golden era" in your life that you look back on with a particular fondness? You're an angel. Thanks for sharing your life and creativity with us all. <3

Hi Rachel!

Is there a certain year or stage of your life that you get particularly nostalgic for? Obviously not in a manner of dwelling, but more so like a "golden era" in your life that you look back on with a particular fondness?

You're an angel. Thanks for sharing your life and creativity with us all. <3

Admin Reply by: Rachel

Not yet! Still thriving 🙂