McKenzie DePinto’s content journey began with snapshots of her time abroad in Florence, and it’s evolved into a thoughtfully curated page blending motherhood, modern style, and honest recommendations. A former fashion wholesale professional turned full-time creator, McKenzie has grown her digital presence with authenticity at the center — never forcing links, only sharing what she truly wears and loves. Since joining ShopMy, she’s built strong brand relationships and developed a seamless affiliate strategy that still feels personal. Below, she shares how it all started, how she builds trust with her audience, and why she’ll always take a direct link over a middleman.

Let’s start with your background. What sparked your interest in content creation?

I’ve always been into fashion — my mom was a buyer for Neiman’s for 15 years, so it’s kind of in my blood. I started an Instagram account when I studied abroad in Florence so I wouldn’t spam my personal feed, and it evolved from there. First it was travel and outfit posts, then summer in New York City, and eventually I started writing weekly blog posts about styling tips. But it wasn’t something I was really promoting — I didn’t take it too seriously at first.

Things shifted after I got married and moved back to Dallas in 2023. I started sharing my outfits again, just for fun, and I actually began gaining traction. When Things I Bought and Liked followed and shared my page, that gave me a big boost — and honestly, a vote of confidence. It made me feel like, okay, let’s do this. I’ve loved it ever since.

When did affiliate links become part of your strategy?

It evolved naturally. I’d always shared where my outfits were from, even before I was linking anything. I used to list every brand in the caption — like, “jeans from Citizens of Humanity, blouse from Revolve,” that kind of thing. So when I had the ability to start linking directly, it just made sense. It’s easier for my audience, and it saves them from having to search for every piece I mention.

I joined ShopMy after someone on the team reached out. With ShopMy, it’s so easy — for me and my followers. I prefer using a link that goes straight to the site or app, and I know my followers do too.

You’ve done a lot of Opportunities on ShopMy. Has affiliate linking helped you connect with brands?

Absolutely. At the beginning, the ShopMy's tier system really motivated me to link everything I could. And I still do! Once brands see that you’re driving traffic or sales — even if someone doesn’t buy the exact product— they start to take notice.

That’s how I ended up working directly with Hill House Home. I had no idea I was driving so much traffic for them until we connected through ShopMy. Now, I have a relationship with their team. They actually said they couldn’t even see those kinds of analytics on other platforms. ShopMy made that visibility — and that connection — possible.

I also love being able to message brands directly. You can’t do that on other platforms. It really builds trust and leads to more meaningful opportunities.

What’s your advice to creators who are hesitant to start sharing affiliate links?

Just start. If you love it, it’s worth it. Honestly, it’s just fun for me. And now, I get to make money doing something I already enjoyed.

I’ve always been super intentional. I never shared a product I hadn’t used or bought myself. Now, I’m gifted amazing things, but I still won’t post about them unless I’ve tested them out and actually recommend them. I think that helps build trust.

I also DM with my followers all the time. I’ve built relationships with them, and they see me posting about the same brands I loved from the beginning. It’s consistent, and it’s real.

What keeps you coming back to ShopMy?

So many things. I love the transparency — being able to see what’s performing, what I’ve earned, what my top linked products are. That kind of visibility is really motivating.

I’ve also discovered new brands I might not have come across otherwise. For example, I was introduced to Suzie Kondi through ShopMy and now I’m obsessed. I’ve already worn one of their skirts three times!

And honestly, even my mom uses it. She’s not tech savvy at all, but she loves that my ShopMy links just take her straight to the product. That says it all.

To shop McKenzie DePinto's stylist picks and everyday edits, check out her shop below: