Carmen Ordonez, Fashion Blogger Behind Viva Fashion, Talks Fashion, Beauty And Budgets [EXCLUSIVE]

Fashion bloggers have changed the world of fashion reporting, as the fashionistas have garnered more followers than many reputable publications and have secured spots in the front row of runways at international fashion weeks.

One such fashion blogger is Carmen Ordonez, the creator of Viva Fashion, a lifestyle website catering to those who are on a budget. Born in New York to Colombian parents, Ordonez has been featured in several media outlets, including: The New York Times, The Style Network, Univision, People Style Watch, CNN en Espanol, MSN Latino, People en Espanol, NBC, FOX, Marie Claire, Cosmopolitan for Latinas, Fashion TV, Telemundo and Univision's "Despierta America."

The Latina -- who graduated with a Bachelors of Science Degree in Broadcast Journalism from Florida International University and previously worked as an Associate Producer for the Miami HEAT -- launched her blog in 2008. The blog was so well received that she currently is a spokesperson for leading brands including, but not limited to, T.J Maxx, Marshalls, LOFT, ZYRTEC and David's Bridal.

Ordonez spoke with Latin Times and revealed that she hopes to empower women through fashion, teaching them they don't have to spend a million to look like a million. In an effort to help women build self-esteem, she hosts fashion workshops across the U.S., where women learn key essentials such as learning how to dress for their body type to boosting their confidence.

See what Ordonez has to say about her blog, fashion, and beauty. You can follow her on Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, Pinterest and YouTube.

Latin Times: What inspired you to start your blog, and what was your goal?

I first started my blog as a creative outlet. I had recently left my job working as a TV reporter and starting a blog allowed me to continue to do what I love so much, which was writing and reporting. I launched my blog in 2008, when the whole blogging world was just kicking off so it was mostly as a hobby. I had no idea it would one day become my career.

LT: How has starting your blog/website opened doors for you?

Carmen Ordonez: Wow, I can't even begin to explain. I always credit these doors opening to God. It is because of him and his grace that I am where I am today. My blog has allowed me to quit my day-job and make a living out of my passion. It also allowed me to position myself as a Latina style expert. Because of that I now get hired as a spokesperson by leading brands including T.J. Maxx, Marshalls, LOFT, ZYRTEC and David's Bridal to name a few to appear on TV segments on their behalf and work on exciting campaigns.

LT: What are your favorite trends that you saw on the 2014 NYFW runways? Which styles do you think have the most potential to translate from runway to day-to-day life?

CO: One of my favorite collections was from Tadashi Shoji. It was filled feminine and whimsical pieces, including rich colors and laser cutouts which I loved. I can easily see these working for the spring, perhaps in a skirt or in a spring dress.

LT: What advice would you give shoppers who are on a budget?

CO: I always say to first take inventory of what you have in your closet. Throw away what doesn't fit or flatter your figure. This will give you an idea of what you are working with. Don't focus so much on trends. Trends, come and go. So if you have a limited budget I would recommend investing in key classic pieces that never go out of style. If you want to spice it up, you can always do that with accessories, which you can find at great prices. I personally love Forever 21, H&M and J.Crew's Factory Store for statement pieces.

LT: What are your must-have beauty products?

CO: I never leave the house without bronzer. I don't like to tan my face, so this give my skin a nice healthy glow. I like using Smashbox's Bronze Lights. I also love Giorgio Armani's 'Luminous Silk' Foundation and L'Oréal's Voluminous Million Lashes Mascara. I also recently started using an eyelash curler, before applying my mascara and it works wonders.