“Second job” wins online fashion and travel influencer top award

Online influencer Lucy Mitchell, who has been blogging for nine years about her passion for fashion and travel, was named Blogger of the Year in The Simply Ladies Awards, which are run by a group based in Leeds that celebrates women's achievements in the North.

The 29-year-old Maltby writer took the title for her website Sunset Desires, where recent posts include “The Pros and Cons of Taking a Nap: Is it Worth it?” and “10 Interior Design Trends for 2022”.

Lucy said: “It stated as solely as fashion blog but it has expanded over time.

“I originally started by uploading my daily outfits on a website called Lookbook and that’s when I realised other people on there had blogs, which is when I decided to start mine.

“My blog started as a hobby but it has now become a second job where I make some extra income.”

Lucy, who works as a libraries and neighbourhood hubs representative for Rotherham Libraries, said: “I work with a number of big and small brands and I find it a lot of fun.

“I have gained a community of women through my audience, who all share my interests.”

Lucy was nominated by one of her website visitors for The Simply Ladies Awards, before the entrants were whittled down to finalists and put to a public vote.

She picked up her award at a ceremony hosted by TV presenter Jenny Powell in Leeds.

“When my name was called, I was extremely surprised because there were some other great bloggers nominated who I was sure would win over me,” said Lucy.

“I was extremely happy to win,

My mum was screaming and going up for the award was a bit of a blur —before I knew it, I was sitting back down with the award in hand.”