American Girl in Chelsea is not just any other fashion or lifestyle blog. It is a chic guide for American women taking that big leap over the pond to find a home in London.
Christy Osborne, the founder and writer behind American Girl in Chelsea, is an American mother of two and after interviewing the chic writer, we absolutely adore her!
Christy gives her readers advice on everything from where to go shopping for a glamorous occasion, to finding doctors abroad or how to vote as an ex-pat. Whatever the question, Miss Osborne would love to help.
Name: Christy Osborne
Age: 29
Where did you go to school? USC (The University of Southern California), The London School of Economics and Pepperdine University School of Law
Major and Graduation Year: 2005, Political Science and Pre-Law; 2008 – Juris Doctorate from Pepperdine
When and why did you start An American Girl in Chelsea?
One afternoon I was having lunch with a few girlfriends and I was telling them about all the random emails and phone calls I had from ladies who had just moved to London from the States. They had been given my information from friends of friends and wanted different tips on settling into the city. One of my girlfriends said “You should write a book!” and I responded, “No, I think this is more of a blog thing.” So I started American Girl in Chelsea after I had my first baby. There was so much positive feedback right away that it just fueled me to write more and more. That was 2 1/2 years ago now.
You chose to study abroad in 2003. How did you decide on London?
At USC the only year-long program available was in London. Everything else was only a semester. I just figured if I was going to live abroad, I really wanted to do it; I wanted to give myself the chance to fully immerse in the city and it’s culture. I think it’s hard to settle in someplace in just 3 or 4 months.
What was the hardest part of transitioning from Los Angeles to London?
I miss my family and girlfriends, but everyone has been so good about visiting. They really make such a great effort; my four closest girlfriends are meeting me in New York for my 30th birthday (a perfect half-way point.) I also miss the beach. A lot.
What are the main differences between LA and London?
LA is so focused on Hollywood, where London is a hub for EVERYTHING- theatre, art, finance, fashion. I mean don’t get me wrong, there are a lot of great things going on in LA, but London just has so much to offer (except a close sunny beach of course.)
In your opinion, what are the biggest challenges for a newcomer in London?
I think if you come from the West Coast, it’s definitely hard to get used to the constant rain. I personally think it gives London part of it’s character, but it is hard to adjust to. Also, its hard to get used to the lack of outdoor space. I’m used to having a pool and a yard. Here in London, we’re lucky to have a small garden.
What made you decide to move back to London? My Husband was offered a job after law school by a firm with offices in New York and London. He gave me the choice. It was a no-brainer.
Would you say that you have a British accent now or do people still think that you are from America when they speak to you?
I don’t have an accent. But when I’m back in LA I definitely get teased for the way I say different words. Lift, instead of elevator. Things like that. I’m really hoping my kids develop a British accent.
My 3 favorite London neighbourhoods are: Chelsea, Holland Park, Parsons Green.
My 3 favorite restaurants are: Zuma, Brunello at the Baglioni Hotel, Daphne’s.
My 3 favorite shops are: Trilogy, The Shop at Bluebird and Donna Ida.
As a blogger, I couldn’t live without…: My iPhone, my NIKON SLR and feedback from my readers.
As a blogger, I can’t stand…: Harassing emails from PR companies requesting a post about something that my readers would have zero interest in.
The biggest accomplishment in my blogging career is: I spoke at an International Women’s Day Brunch on a panel of some very accomplished women. It was really neat that they included the blog as a model of a successful business.
How would you describe your style? I hope classic. As I have gotten older I have tried to buy pieces for my wardrobe that I think I will still want to wear in 5 or 10 years.
What are your favorite London hidden gems? There’s a little French bakery and cafe called Maison De Etre on Bute Street in South Kensington. I love their baguette sandwiches. One of A Kind Vintage shop in Notting Hill (the by-appointment only bit.)
What piece of advice would you give to someone who is planning on moving to London from the US?
Don’t let the rain get you down. Read American Girl in Chelsea for all my recommendations!
Are you working on anything else than the blog at the moment? I am an advisor for Pepperdine Univeristy School of Law’s London Programme.
What can we expect next from An American Girl in Chelsea, Christy Osborne? I’d love to turn American Girl into a book!
Who is your favorite in the tv-show Made in Chelsea? Cheska. I’ve met most of them around and she’s the sweetest.
What would you pick if you had to choose between Afternoon Tea in London or In-n-out-burger in Los Angeles?
I’d take the pink champagne from afternoon tea and have it with the in-in-out burger!