Hi,
I’m Betül Thena Yıldız — a lifelong writer, fashion lover, and digital storyteller based in New York City. Some people find it difficult to write about themselves. I get it — even as a writer, distilling your journey into a few paragraphs is no easy task. But if you’re curious about who’s behind Alley Girl, here’s my story.
1. A Writer at Heart
My love for writing started young — I began penning short stories back in 2005, long before “blogging” became the cultural phenomenon it is today. I’ve always felt at home with words. After graduating from Business School in 2009, I started writing about marketing and business — right around the same time, I discovered the powerful potential of social media.
That same year, I landed my first job as a Social Media Executive, working with global brands like Ford Turkey and Fiat Turkey. That early experience opened doors and laid the foundation for my digital career.
2. From Istanbul to NYC — And Back to Blogging
In 2011, I participated in my first influencer campaign — the iconic “Nestle Nesfit 14-Day Diet with 14 Bloggers.” That campaign gave me a glimpse into the world of digital influence and branded content. And then? Life happened.
Later that year, I packed my bags and moved to New York City. The hustle of the Big Apple swept me up. For two years, I took a break from blogging — but I never lost my love for storytelling.
By early 2014, I returned to blogging — this time, in English. It felt like a fresh start.
3. Recognition & Passion Projects
Just one year later, in 2015, something incredible happened. I was chosen as a finalist in the Clergerie x Man Repeller #ClergerieGirl contest, proudly representing the USA and my new hometown: New York. It was a powerful moment of validation that told me: Yes, this is where you belong.
Since then, Alley Girl has grown into a full-time career. Today, I work from home in NYC, raising my twin daughters (born September 2017) and building a business rooted in creativity, authenticity, and passion. Becoming a mother only made me stronger. I’m one of the lucky ones who get to balance both motherhood and meaningful work — and for that, I’m endlessly grateful.
About Alley Girl: More Than Just a Blog
4. What Is Alley Girl?
Alley Girl is a New York-based fashion and lifestyle blog for modern, curious, and style-conscious readers. It’s your digital space to discover fashion tips, New York lifestyle guides, and honest reflections on womanhood, motherhood, entrepreneurship and tech inspirations.
We’ve been featured in top publications like ELLE USA (print + online), Vogue, W Magazine, Footwear News, and Dallas Voyage. Over the years, we’ve collaborated with brands I admire — including Robert Clergerie, Mon Purse, Listerine, AmorePacific, Uniqlo, and Baublebar, just to name a few.
Think of Alley Girl as a cozy corner of the internet where fashion meets tech, and dreams meet hustle.
5. Why the Name “Alley Girl”?
Let’s clear up the mystery.
When I moved to Manhattan, I worked in a vibrant neighborhood called the Flatiron District. One day, while working on my laptop, I looked up and saw the iconic triangle-shaped Flatiron Building — a moment that changed everything.
I knew that this neighborhood is home to NYC’s tech and startup scene, affectionately called Silicon Alley (yes, the East Coast version of Silicon Valley). That name stuck with me.
I realized that I wasn’t just a girl who loved fashion — I was also deeply immersed in the world of technology, startups, marketing, and digital culture. That’s how Alley Girl was born.
6. What Does Alley Girl Cover?
Whether you’re here for the outfits or the outlooks, we’ve got you covered.
✔️ Fashion & Style Tips
Think wearable street style, high-low fashion pairings, and the latest trends — always with a New York twist.
✔️ New York Lifestyle
From the chicest cafés in SoHo to hidden gems in Brooklyn, you’ll get a glimpse of city life through a stylish lens.
✔️ Beauty & Skincare Reviews
I’m always testing the latest in clean beauty and cult-favorite skincare. Expect honest reviews and luxe finds.
✔️ Tech & Digital Culture
Because why can’t a fashion girl also be a tech nerd? I share insights on the digital world — from social media trends to startup culture.
✔️ Travel Diaries
Come along on my travel adventures, from dreamy European getaways to spontaneous city escapes.
7. Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Who is behind Alley Girl?
A: Alley Girl is written and edited by Betül Thena Yıldız, a digital marketer/blogger, fashion lover, and NYC-based mom of twins.
Q: Why is it called “Alley Girl”?
A: The name comes from Silicon Alley, NYC’s version of Silicon Valley — where fashion, tech, and media converge. I was working in the Flatiron District when I was inspired to combine my love of tech and style.
Q: What can I find on this blog?
A: Everything from fashion tips, outfit inspiration, luxury brand and beauty reviews to insights about NYC lifestyle, tech trends, and travel. It’s a multifaceted space for the curious and creative.
Q: Do you collaborate with brands?
A: Yes! I’ve collaborated with brands like Dyson, Rodan and Fields, Valentino Beauty, Prada Beauty, L’oreal, Lyft, Sorel Footwear, Walmart Fashion, Aurate, and more. If you’re a brand looking to connect, head over to my [Contact Page].
8. Let’s Connect!
Alley Girl isn’t just about me — it’s about you, too.
Whether you’re a fellow fashion lover, startup founder, skincare enthusiast, or a mom navigating it all — I hope this space inspires you. Want to collaborate, pitch an idea, or just say hi? Get in touch here.
You can also follow along on Instagram, Pinterest, Youtube and TikTok for daily style inspo, NYC moments, and behind-the-scenes peeks.
Final Words: Why I Blog
Blogging isn’t just a job for me — it’s a calling. It’s how I connect, express, and empower. From Istanbul to New York, from social media exec to fashion blogger and twin mama — this journey has been anything but ordinary.
Alley Girl is where fashion meets style, home decor, travel, tech, and much more. It is where city life meets motherhood, and passion becomes purpose.
Welcome to my alley.
With love,
Betül
Contact Us
Let’s work together! For more information on how we can work together through sponsorships, collaborations, and partnerships, please e-mail ag (@) alleygirl.com. Thanks!
Say hi here:
ag (@) alleygirl.com
