A couple weeks ago, an email notification from blogging bud B (of Beautifully Invisible) flashed across my iPhone. Excited to see what she might be contacting me about, I tapped the notification,  and then I saw this:

Oh, great, I think. Just what I need to deal with right now. I open up the email and find (in true B fashion), a succinct and very well-written note about an accidental discovery B made—a book review blogger (of all bloggers) had most assuredly lifted gratuitous amounts of our content, plus a post from Fajr of Stylish Thought, and reworked them into “original” posts on her blog.

This post captures my half of the story of how B, Fajr, and I worked together to stop a plagiarist dead in her tracks. I’ll also share tips and resources that you will need should you find yourself in the same unfortunate situation.

Be sure to read B’s post, I Think We’ve Been Plagiarized… Sort of: The Story of the Content Thief, to find out:

• Why applications that measure and analyze blog traffic are vital—and why you should be looking at more than just how many visits you are getting.
• What data you need to pay attention to when analyzing site traffic.
• How to build a “case” against a plagiarist.

And on with the story…

This post looks familiar. Uh, maybe ’cause it’s MINE!

Irate and clicking like crazy, I, too landed upon B’s discovery and saw a tab at the top of the blog entitled “Building a Better Blog” (sound familiar?) that was formatted almost identically to my page. Then I saw my post, Klout—What it is and Why it Matters, which I painstakingly wrote and published in March 2011, reworked with synchronous similarities and published on that other blog in October 2011, with absolutely no attribution of any kind. Not a link, not a name, not an “inspired by,” nothing. Oh no she didn’t, I thought. She just messed with the wrong blogger.

A quick review of my blog analytics corroborated B’s findings. We both saw the same September 23, 2011 initial interaction date, and exits through links on my Build a Better Blog page to B’s blog. So, as a group, B, Fajr, and I decided to stand together and take action, and we got a resolution we are mostly happy with.

First, a little plagiarism 101. And, please note I am not an attorney, and this is not legal advice. If you have questions about plagiarism, copyright laws, etc., be sure to consult a qualified legal professional.

Plagiarism—it’s more than just copying.

We all learned in primary school that you can’t copy anyone’s writing and pass it off as your own. We’ve all done papers and reports in which we (probably begrudgingly) created a works cited page or used footnotes to cite references we paraphrased, and quotation marks to indicate a direct, word-for-word statement. We all know verbatim copying without attribution is illegal and unacceptable, and that blog scrapers are clearly committing copyright infringement.

If you look at the screens above and compare them to my Klout post, you can see they are not identical. But the subheadings, layout, and even parts of the copy are so similar to my post, there is no doubt this is not a coincidental similarity. Which brings me to my point: plagiarism doesn’t pertain only to verbatim regurgitation of another’s writing. According to Wikipedia,

“Plagiarism is defined in dictionaries as the “wrongful appropriation,” “close imitation,” or “purloining and publication” of another author’s “language, thoughts, ideas, or expressions,” and the representation of them as one’s own original work…”

Notice that definition doesn’t apply only to scraping or verbatim reproduction of content. If you “closely imitate” the work of another, changing a few words here and there—as the blogger did with content from B, Fajr, and me—you are still guilty of plagiarism. Hey, you know what’s funny? The very blogger who lifted our content offered a pretty good explanation of it in a post she dedicated to preaching about plagiarism. Couldn’t have written it better myself, so I’m quoting her, though I can’t offer linked attribution—I’ll tell you why below. Keep reading.

“Plagiarism is wrong. No matter how you look at it.

There is no excuse… ‘I didn’t know…. I didn’t mean to… I did it subconsciously.’ No, you didn’t. You did know and you did mean to.

Plagiarism isn’t just copying and pasting word for word and passing it off as your own. It can be taking someones work and changing around the sentence structure, getting out your thesaurus and changing a few words here and there… basically taking the central idea tweaking it and passing it off as your own work.”

Oh, the irony.

How we fought a plagiarist—and won.

After conferring with each other, B, Fajr, and I decided to begin by contacting the blogger to let her know that she was guilty of copyright infringement, and that we had IP address analytics to support our claim. We sent her an email on January 20, 2012, and asked for attribution on the content she purloined, and we let her know that not responding would force us to share our findings on our blogs and all our social networks, and that we would initiate takedown proceedings with DMCA.com.

She immediately added the attributions, but after she responded with this, it really inflamed us:

“In all honestly, I have never been to your blog or any of the blogs mentioned in this email until tonight when I cross referenced the posts that you had listed. I rarely if ever read blogs beyond the book blog community. But I could not agree more with your assessments of the posts. And I am sorry to say that I have no viable explanation. I even searched my web history to see if perhaps I had read the posts and had recalled them as I was writing my own.”

No viable explanation. I have never been to your blog. Right. We were surprised by her nonchalance and even more enraged by her lies since our analytics showed she’d been on both B’s blog and mind as recently as January 19, 2012. We decided collectively that simple attribution would no longer suffice and that we didn’t want to be linked with her blog in any manner. B crafted another email that demanded that she delete the posts in question from her blog and all her social networks, and that she rename her “Building a Better Blog” page.

She wrote back. This is an excerpt of her response:

Her contradictory statements and the fact that she did finally delete the posts and rename the page told us that our assumptions about her guilt were accurate. Because we obtained the resolution we sought (or 99% of it), and the plagiarized content now only exists in screen captures we took, we have chosen not to “out” her, lest we open ourselves up to libel. Although we did successfully retrieve our content, it is extremely frustrating knowing she continues to represent herself as an “honest” writer who would never, ever plagiarize.

Oh well. All I can say is I’m thinking she probably learned her lesson. I hope.

What should you do if you discover plagiarism?

After your blood pressure comes down, here are some pointers on what to do next:

1. If you notice another blogger’s content somewhere else, contact the blogger to let him or her know about the plagiarized content. Chances are they are not the only one whose content is being stolen. When bloggers come together independently with strong evidence, you have a greater case and more power to get the resolution you seek.
2. Take screen captures of the plagiarized content so you have an image/proof for future reference and use.
3. If there is an email address provided on the site, contact the plagiarist. You should probably send a cease-and-desist letter to start.
4. If there is no contact info, the next step is to contact the host of the blog.
5. If the stolen content has been scraped there is usually no contact information available. I suggest you register with DMCA.com and initiate takedown proceedings.

Hopefully one of the methods above will nip the issue in the bud. Read more about what to do when all else fails.

Copyright/Anti-Plagiarism Tools and Resources

• DMCA.com helps to enforce the Digital Millennium Copyright Act by fighting copyright infringement and conducting takedowns of stolen content. You can also get a DMCA badge for your blog.
• Plagiarism.org defines plagiarism and provides resources for education, prevention, and more.
• Plagiarism Today has some fantastic resources for dealing with plagiarism online—I’ve linked to several pages in the list above, but should you want more info, be sure to check the site out, especially the Stop Internet Plagiarism section.
• Read my post, Copyright and Image Use—What You Need to Know to better understand copyright law and  intellectual property protection.
• Read The Uncomfortable Facts About Plagiarism—great info about this topic in an easy-to-understand article.
• Prevent content scraping—learn more and take action:

• Read The Definitive Guide to Blog Content Scraping & How to Stop It!
• Read Content Scrapers—How to Find Out Who is Stealing Your Content & What to Do About It
• Use a plugin like Anti Feed-Scraper Message
• Use Copyscape to look for scraped or plagiarized content

Remember kids, the truth always prevails—even when people think they’re getting away with something, their IP address and pingbacks will reveal the truth every single time. Stand up for your rights and your content!

PS: “B*tch stole my content!” was inspired by the E! Fashion Police segment, B*tch Stole My Look!

Wondering how Links à la Mode works? Read my tutorial: How to Submit a Post to IFB Links à la Mode

The fall shows are coming! Yay! Let’s kick off the 2012 fall/winter fashion week season with Gucci, natch.

Gucci Men’s Fall/Winter 2012 Fashion Show

• Date:   Monday, January 16, 2012
• Time:  6:30am EST, 12:30pm CET

Watch live here on the day, or catch the replay here at your convenience.

And be sure to tweet with @Gucci and me, @gritandglamour. Remember your #GUCCI hashtag!

Show your double-G love: Facebook | Twitter | Tumblr | You Tube | Gucci Style App

2011 was an incredible, exhilarating year for me and G&G. I was so fortunate to have been invited to participate in the IFB conferences in February and September, to speak at Blogger Brilliance, to travel to Barcelona for an MNG by MANGO photo shoot, and more! You’d think with all that excitement, I’d be on blogging cloud nine (which I’m sure is lit completely by Gucci phosphorescence, but that’s another post).

Actually, I was elated to have so many fantastic opportunities come my way last year, but after all that FUN, that HYPE, that TRAVELING, that WRITING, that PICTURE-TAKING while balancing a full-time job and a life, I was exhausted. Which equated to less time in the gym, and more weight on me. By November, I was alternately happy and cranky. And not able to fit into some of my favorite pieces. Boo.

What’s a style blogger to do when she’s burned out on…herself?

Feeling self-conscious, mentally taxed, and pulled in 10,000 directions, I did the only thing I could do: I took a little break. A semi-hiatus. I blogged when I felt like it. I took photos sparingly. I stopped pressuring myself to burn all my candles on both ends, at the same time—which gave me time to re-group, rest, and come up with this list…

12 Ways to a Better Blog—and a Better You—in 2012

1. Accept yourself as you are right now.
Think it’s soooo bad? Just remember there are people with ailments, disabilities, or who’ve had accidents that would be grateful for a functioning body like yours. Acceptance is crucial to self-love. This is a tough one, but to move forward, you have to nip appearance-induced depression and self-loathing in the bud. Accepting yourself doesn’t mean you have to love the way you look—it just means that you aren’t beating yourself up about it. But if you don’t like how you look and feel right now, realize that it’s not going to change unless YOU change.

2. Got goals? Write them down.
It has been proven that you accomplish more when you actually write down goals and can see them. I actually did this a couple years ago, and you know what happened? I ended up on two IFB panels last year! I swear!

3. Get out.
Outside, people! Into nature, without your tablet/phone/iPod, etc. No matter where you are or what season you are in, disconnecting and taking a stroll in fresh air does wonders for the soul. You’ll feel better after a 30-minute excursion, even if it’s only once a week.

4. Pump up your playlist.
If the last sentence of #1 speaks to you (um, it’s SCREAMING at me!), give yourself the kick in the pants to get moving by psyching yourself up with music. I know it helps keep me moving in the gym. Find a new anthem using Shazam. I can’t tell you how many dance tracks in my fave playlists were discovered via Shazam. It’s brilliant.

5. Try a trend you’ve never thought you could pull off.
Barring trends related to hairstyles/color, what’s the worst that can happen? Nothing! Clothing, makeup, nail colors—they’re temporary. Think you can’t mix prints? Oh yes you can! Think you can’t do a half-moon mani? Practice makes perfect. Stop limiting yourself and live a little. Give yourself permission to try, and even fail. But at least try.

6. Remember: Everything is a potential post.
That trend tryout above? If you love it, there’s a post. If people looked at you like you had three heads, that’s a post too. Everything—from going to the doctor, to memories associated with specific fragrances or outfits, to how a new beauty product has changed your life, to how a life event changed your style—all potential posts. So what if other people have written about them! They’re not you and they’re not writing from your experience.

7. Tackle new technology—apps, devices, social media—anything.

Poptop bracelet discovered on Pinterest.

Take some time to play, and you could discover…

• A time-saving invoicing app like FreshBooks (it simplified my freelance invoicing and expense management!)
• A way to purge all those DMs in Twitter at once through Social Oomph
• An awesome weekly blog Twitter chat like Blog Trends Chat
• Inspiring imagery and delightful DIYs on Pinterest
• A better blogging platform like WordPress.

Don’t let fear stand in the way of learning and efficiency. The more you explore, the more you are likely to discover. And the more tech-savvy you are, the more marketable you are in the career world.

My Build a Better Blog page has lots of resources, especially for those looking to jump from Blogger to WordPress, a tech move so many fear unnecessarily.

8. Beg, borrow, and barter.
Desperate for better blog photos or a new blog template, but lacking the cash to make it happen? Reach out to friends/family/contacts with the skills you need and propose a trade. Get a new logo in exchange for free ad space on your blog. Polish a résumé for someone in exchange for a photo session.

What do you have that others appreciate? Leverage your talents…ethically, of course.

9. Say no.
As your blog grows, so will inquiries from those interested in partnering with you. Don’t accept every offer just because it means more money than you had yesterday. Too many ads, paid content, and giveaways muddy the look of your blog, your personal brand, and your intent. Know what you stand for and be selective. Realize that the offer on the table has probably been extended to dozens of other bloggers as well.

Honestly, the chances of you quitting your job to blog full-time are nil. There are a few bloggers who have successfully made a career of blogging, but they’re not holding the fort down based on ad revenues alone. In fact, most are represented by a talent agency (like Digital Brand Architects, for example), and their income streams are multifaceted. By all means, follow your dreams, but know that it takes a ton of work, a real plan, and a very serious approach.

10. Stop trying to be BIG, and just try to be you.
This is basically an extension of #8. Who doesn’t want to be as famous as Aimee Song, Kelly Framel, or Jane Aldridge? Who doesn’t want to be courted by designers and flown to fashion shows? It’s the universal dream of fashion bloggers, and a reality that most of us will never have. Stop obsessing over your comments and traffic and followers and fans, and focus on being you. When you focus on sharing your unique talents and perspective, and when you genuinely engage with bloggers who are similar to you, your numbers will grow—but more important are the rewarding connections you will make.

11. Share early, and share often.
Tweet, retweet, and share inspiring or informative content from other bloggers via all your social media channels. It’s a great way to establish yourself as a go-to person, grow your reach, and have your own content shared. Share new blogs, DIYs, tech tips, or say thank you or send a congratulatory message. I promise, people will notice and respond.

12. Help someone. Or something.
None of us has gotten to where we are today without help from someone at some point. Whether you were mentored in your career, nurtured by your family, or given a tip through a tweet, you MUST pay it forward. Help comes in all forms, from writing a recommendation on Linked In, to holding a door for a mom struggling with a stroller, to finding a home for a stray animal, to letting another blogger know about a helpful plugin. In the blogosphere and in real life, when you can or you are asked, you should help others by sharing your knowledge, time, talent, and wisdom. It will make someone’s day and make you feel good too!

And the bonus: JUST DO IT!
Similar to #2 above, in order to make your wishes come true, you actually have to DO SOMETHING! Do something now, today, to start that business, get that job, run that race, or take that vacation. If you’re aiming for a new career or a better job, polish your Linked In profile or create an online portfolio of your work. Want to run a race? Find a group to train with at your local gym or through Meetup.

Whatever it is that you’ve always wanted to do or change, there is no time like right now to get started. Every day is a gift. Make it count.

Which one of these tips speaks to you? What are you going to do or change in 2012?

I recently had my annual wellness exam, and this is what I wore…no kidding! A gold-buttoned wool coat and OTK boots (over OTK socks) winterized my spring-weather dress, and kept it from blowing over my head. Apparently we will not be escaping winter in the south. After weeks of 60-degree temps, winter has arrived, with fuh-reezing gale-force winds. Ouch.

*WVW = What V Wore
Coat: Zara • Dress: Cache • Boots: Aldo • Sunnies: Juicy Couture

This may be TMI, but I’m writing it anyway. My annual exam is always in January, which helps me remember when I’m due again. New year = time for a check-up (be sure to schedule yours for 2012, ladies!).

I always wear dresses to the doc. Let’s be real here—if you’re going to have to disrobe, it doesn’t get any easier than a dress and boots, right? Consider that my tip for dressing for the doctor’s office.

Atten-TION! Happy 2012, lovelies!

This is my official 2011 farewell and salute to the New Year, and I just had to do it in my military-inspired Glitterati by Pretty Shiny Sparkly shirt. Yeah, you know the one my blogging bud Kristina of Pretty Shiny Sparkly) designed? Well, sorry you missed the chance to scoop one up, because it is ab fab in real life! Unctuous olive green silk punctuated by patches of square gold sequins? Um, yes please!

As feminine as this shirt can be, I couldn’t help but go full military with it. Or maybe it’s biker/rocker/military? I don’t know, but however you label this look, I can assure you of one thing, it is empowering! And I’m sure when I pair it with wide-leg pants for the the office, it will be just as attention-getting. If I can’t blind them with my brilliance, no doubt the glint of my sequins will!

*WVW = What V Wore
Shirt: Glitterati by Pretty Shiny Sparkly • Belt: Ann Taylor • Leather leggings: Michael Kors (similar, vegan)• Boots: Gucci
Stole: vintage • Bracelets, right wrist: Stella & Dot (details below)

You know what else I love about this shirt? Other than it’s gorge? I love that it came with a personal note from Kristina, and that every time I wear it, I think of her. I never would have met Kristina if it weren’t for the blog. It’s people like her, people like YOU that keep me coming back to the keyboard.

I just acquired this trifecta of gold-smothered deliciousness from Stella & Dot, and you know what? This photo (which is a close-up of the bracelets I’m wearing above) has been my most loved Instagram photo this year! And that they’re a perfect complement to my Glitterati shirt? Coincidence? I think not. For those of you who’ve asked, links appear below.

Stella & Dot bracelets, top-to-bottom: Devi Bangles • Renegade Cluster Bracelet • Pyramid Double Wrap Bracelet

Thanks for making 2011 one hell of a year, y’all! Without you, I’d just be a girl in a room with her thoughts. Thank you for your continued support, tweets, shares, friendship, inspiration, and love. May 2012 be filled with sparkles, dreams, joy, and profound happiness! Cheers!

Ever since I spotted this poncho thingy on Taylor of Sterling Style, I’ve been obsessed. As fate would have it, five days after her post dropped I found myself in New York—and near a Zara(!)—and after sampling the poncho thingy in person, I knew it had to come home with me. (Great eye, Taylor!)

With mild temps in my world this winter, it’s the perfect piece to throw on for errand running over the holidays. In fact, it’s been on my back so much lately, when I pulled it out again today, Hubby said, “You really like that little Mexican blanket, don’t you?”

Yes, Hubby, I do.

I’ve also been living in my new J Brand mid-rise skinnies. Mid-rise, where have you been all my life? Remember when I was talking about getting some after snagging those Houlihans? These things make me feel gorge even after gorging on Christmas treats and far too many libations. They’re almost as comfy as leggings, but far more forgiving. Two thumbs up for J Brand jeans! Tried and true. I’m in love.

 *WVW = What V Wore
Poncho: Zara • Top: BCBGMAXAZRIA • Jeans: J Brand 811 Mid-Rise Skinnies in Heritage • Booties: Pour La Victoire
Bag: Michael Kors (similar) • Sunnies: Christian Dior

Oh, hey! It’s me again!

Worker V has been a busy girl, but you know what gets me through the day, the traffic, the travel, the deadlines, and the endless fatigue? When I look in the mirror and a quirky and unexpected accessory—like this plastic necklace I bought in Oz—winks back at me. Even if I’m pretending it’s Marni in my head (and it ain’t), it puts a smile on my face.

I’ll admit that in my businessy busyness, I’ve been super slack about dragging the Canon out for some shots. But one morning before I dashed off to work, this glorious sun beckoned to me from the backyard, and it did not disappoint. The flare and my sunbeam spear are totally au naturale. It’s not a whip, Antoine, but I think it will do…

Vest: Witchery • Shirt: Ann Taylor • Skirt: Ann Taylor • Boots: Gucci • Necklace: Jigsaw • Watch: Michael Kors

You can see a hint of my mani in the shot above, but it was so fun, I had to include a close-up. I was inspired by Kristina’s Half Moon Mani Tutorial, which makes creating fancy schmancy nails a cinch. I did Essie Red Nouveau over Essie Shifting Power…

Have you ever tried a DIY half-moon manicure?