The Emma Chamberlain Effect

Emma Chamberlain: the mother of trends, the epitome of relatability, the blueprint of Generation Z — it’s safe to say, we’re obsessed with Emma. When Emma Chamberlain says it goes, it goes and that applies to all things; it applies to fashion, coffee, music and what we love to talk about in this section of The Edge: travel. With her new “arthouse” inspired and “indie” coded city-specific vlogs that have garnered massive attention on her Youtube channel, Emma has become the effortless travel girlie we all need to tell us what’s good and what’s…not. If one thing is for certain from these aesthetic vlogs, solo traveling with your dad has now been deemed a “vibe,” and loafers with socks and jean shorts are an absolute must. From quirky vlogger to rising fashion guru, we aspire to replicate her aura and take the simple, humanistic approach to feeding explorer syndrome. A guide for the wanderers, disposable camera enthusiasts and lovers of taking life as it comes, it’s time to get inspired and try new things — it's 2023 after all. So, if you’re looking to frolic through the world and talk to strangers like resident cool girl Emma Chamberlain, look no further — we’ve got you covered, love. Grab your favorite camera, vintage jeans, mini sunnies and iced coffee, because we’re going to take a look at the world through Emma’s eyes.

Inspired by an article from Elite Daily, let’s trip with some tips from Emma Chamberlain.

NEW YORK

Now if you want to do the city that never sleeps like a true Emma emulator, it's absolutely necessary to ask a local. In a vlog from her channel entitled “what’s good in new york,” Emma spent the day asking strangers about their favorite spots to shop, eat and spend time in the Big Apple. Asking a New Yorker for recommendations is an absolutely immaculate way to find authenticity in your trip. However, if you rather not approach people on the street…no problem; you can just go where Emma did.

Dine Like Emma

In her vlog, Emma was sent by a New York native to Tacombi, an authentic Mexican taqueria and Blank Street Coffee, a minimalist coffee shop. Both food stops are chains and can be found in multiple places in the city, so depending on how you fill the rest of your day, you can still stop by. An easygoing hangout place, Tacombi is known for its tacos stuffed with crispy cod and carne asada as well as its pitchers of margaritas — as mentioned in an article from Eater New York. Known for its mint green design aesthetic and convenience, Blank Street Coffee is the perfect place to snap an Instagram photo and get your favorite cup of coffee on the go.

Shop Like Emma

In one of the shopping capitals of the world, it may be hard to find the perfect place to browse, so why not just go where Emma was sent by a local: Dauphinette. A boutique featuring fancy vintage clothing, artisanal items and recycled leather, this handmade store with items from around the world is a great place to find some high end statement pieces. Emma Chamberlain is a big time thrift shopper, and NYC is the perfect place to find some unique markets. So, if you’re wandering around and see a flea market…stop in. Maybe you’ll find your new favorite pair of shoes or vintage record.

Explore Like Emma

Even Emma hits the highlights. If you’re headed to NYC, you have to take a second to see Times Square, even if it's just to people-watch. No matter how cliche it may be to spend some time in the most crowded stretch of street in NYC, it is still one of the most iconic locations in the world, and your New York trip just wouldn’t be complete without a glimpse of the giant cartoon M&M’s.

COPENHAGEN

Let’s take a look at the swans, bask in the coastal grandma aesthetic of it all and journey to the capital of Denmark — Copenhagen. Known for its canals, cycling culture, happy locals and ever-charming breweries, the sightseeing and relaxed exploration here is endless. Soak up the dreamy vibes of the city and spend some time on a boat like Emma, or perhaps people-watch along the water in your favorite flowing pants, a bouquet of wildflowers resting on your left. This city really is the European dream, and we’re going to tell you exactly what to do to experience it like your favorite influencer. Maybe this section will even inspire you to buy a ceramic fish head dupe of your own.

Sightsee Like Emma

Stop by the iconic historic Rundetaarn building, and climb the spiral staircase to get some of the best, most breathtaking views of the city. And, like Emma, take a selfie for your mom at the top. If heights aren’t your speed, take a boat ride through the canals and sip your favorite beverage while watching the sunset over the water. Traveling is all about going at your own pace and being present in every moment, so a more relaxed approach to seeing a city is just the way to go.

Browse Like Emma

In Copenhagen, Emma took to the markets. In her vlog, she stopped by a market selling many glass items and unique fashion, even exclaiming how she wishes everything wasn’t made of glass so she could bring it home with her (one of which being a quirky ceramic fish head). Also in her vlog, she stopped by the grocery store, wandered the streets and window shopped. Sometimes browsing is the perfect way to find what you’re looking for.

ENGLAND

Wonderfully storybook with a litany of hidden gems and cities so picturesque that the musicians can’t stop singing about them, spend some time in England — the home of the poets. Cinematic, walkable and full of history, England never really leaves you, so let’s plan a trip to remember.

Do Bath Like Emma

The filming location of Bridgerton and one of the most enchanting cities in England, Bath is home to some of the most cozy pubs, delicious bakeries and perfect picnic spots. Start your morning off right with a trip to the Cornish Bakery — a stylish pastry house with cornish roots, serving award winning cakes, breads and delectable baked goods. Take some time to roam and roll in the grass in front of buildings made out of the iconic golden-colored Bath Stone, and perhaps even feed a pigeon or two (Emma sure did).

Do London Like Emma

There is so much to cover in London; from iconic nightlife to history galore to entertainment and food, the possibilities really are endless. Instead of compiling a list of London, let’s hone in on a shopping spot Emma visited called Vintage Threads. Selling handpicked vintage pieces from around the world and quality reworked clothing, Vintage Threads is the perfect place to find something stylish for your wardrobe. Stop by this trendy store to find your new favorite jacket or pair of jeans. And, truthfully, just spend some time in London taking it all in. Emma took a ride on one of those iconic red buses, and we recommend you do too (it's a great way to see so much).

An article from Elite Daily neatly outlines some of Emma’s biggest travel tips from her vlogs, and we wanted to close out by summarizing those for you:

Ask a local
Choose one food or drink to try everywhere
Embrace everything
Stop and people-watch
Stop by street kiosks
Ship things home to lighten your load

As Emma says, when she’s traveling she wants to be living in the moment, and we hope these tips can help guide you on the whimsical and fulfilling trip you have been waiting for. If you're currently abroad, let us know @theedgemag!