We met Chicago blogger Ginger Lu (@gingerrlu) at a Beachwaver® event in downtown Chicago and were instantly obsessed with her high-fashion, cool-girl style, so we sat down with her at the Peninsula Hotel to learn more about her style and her blog, mei-mei, and invited her to test drive the Beachwaver®! 

Beachwaver: You have a super successful, midwest-based blog—how do you set yourself apart from other fashion bloggers in the area?

Ginger: I think in the midwest, fashion is inspired by the aesthetic of brands like J.Crew and Lilly Pulitzer, but I pull most of my fashion inspiration from New York and L.A., so I think that sets me apart. But I think the biggest thing is that I’m really into streetwear—brands like RSVP, Virgil Abloh and Off-White. I started reading Hypebeast when I was in high school, and since then I’ve stayed up-to-date on all the cool fashion coming in from Europe and Asia…and I think that sets me apart because my style is a little edgier and a little more ‘street’ than some midwest bloggers.

Beachwaver: What are some of your other hobbies and talents?

Ginger: I play piano. I’m super into photography. I’m also designing a line of streetwear with my sister. And I have a podcast called ‘Ghosted’ about millennial dating and hookup culture.

Beachwaver: It’s freezing in Chicago right now. What are some of your style tips for getting through the winter months in the midwest?

Ginger: Layers, layers, layers. I usually wear a puffy jacket with a denim jacket underneath or a furry turtleneck sweater. Sock boots are also really in right now. I love really furry winter boots you can pair with leggings. I think being comfy in the winter is most important thing, because if you’re comfy and warm, you’re happy.

Beachwaver: What are some of your favorite places to shop in Chicago?

Ginger: That’s a hard one! I love everything in Wicker Park. I go to RSVP [Gallery] a lot. St. Alfred, Una Mae’s. And I’ve been going to Suki + Solaine recently, and Nordstrom for everyday pieces.

Beachwaver: What’s your favorite Chicago activity? 

Ginger: I just like being outside and exploring. There are so many cool things to do in the city. You can go into a coffee shop and meet really cool artists and musicians..I’ve met some of my really good friends just out at events or exploring the city.

Beachwaver: Today was your first time using the Beachwaver®—what did you think?!

Ginger: OK, I’m terrible at doing my hair—all my friends can testify to this. And [the Beachwaver®] is honestly the easiest tool I’ve ever used. It’s super easy, and my hair looks awesome right now. Plus, if I can use it, anyone can.