By: Jeanette Tan Yee Ching

With the proliferation of personal websites that focus on a myriad of topics, it takes a first-class blog to stand out among its run-of-the-mill copies. These are four websites we deem worthy enough to hit that bookmark button.

It seems to be that the hardest part of creating your own blog is to settle on the name itself. With websites like Blogger or Livejournal allowing you to set up your own blog with minimal effort, many have hitched a ride on the bandwagon.

The Web has become the place for individuals to share their passions because there is a two way communication with their readers, who can leave comments on the websites almost immediately. With the proliferation of personal websites that focus on a myriad of topics, it takes a first-class blog to stand out among its run-of-the-mill copies. 

The creators behind these independent blogs may or may not be professionals, but one thing is sure: They have a high visitorship to boast of and have garnered a successful following who visit their blogs religiously.

These are four websites we deem worthy enough to hit that bookmark button.

1. BEAUTY: http://www.beautyfool.com           

The creator of this website is a Singapore-based young female, whose personal website on beauty and style has gained the attention of the beauty-conscious. The minimalist design gives the blog a clean look and makes it easy to navigate. Aside from recommending beauty products, Beautyfool also talks about her experiences when dabbling with new make-up or hairstyles. Her candour style of writing connects with readers on a personal level that will have them coming back for more.  

 2. FASHION: http://www.collegefashion.net           

What had started out as a personal fashion blog in 2007 by a college student grew steadily into a worldwide student-run online fashion site, with content that encompasses all areas on fashion and lifestyle for the 20-something college girls. The blog dishes out fashion trends and tips in fun and stimulating posts, such as how to create different outfits using the same stylish top, or assembling the different elements of a chic look of a celebrity. There are also occasional features on college students in trendy ensembles, giving readers a glimpse of the fashion scene in various international universities. This fashion and style website could be a well worthy guide to a voguish lifestyle.  

3. MUSIC: http://thatgrapejuice.net       

This UK based music blog covers everything you need to know about the urban pop culture. That Grape Juice was set up by a then 18- year old Londoner in 2007, whose love for the urban entertainment scene prompted the birth of his own website to share his opinions and commentaries. The impressive coverage on the pop culture had BBC Radio 1Xtra hailing it as UK’s top Urban blog in 2008, so you know we are not just the ones raving about it. From the latest happenings on your favourite singers and music shows, to behind-the-scenes videos and interviews, this tidbit source has proven itself to be as much of a hit as the artistes and music it features.  

4. GAMING: http://www.rockpapershotgun.com

Rock, Paper, Shotgun has the most extensive reporting of news related to the PC gaming industry, and promises to offer nothing less. The three main contributors, all of which are British games journalists, started up the UK PC gaming blog in 2007. Readers can expect to find detailed reviews and previews of the latest games releases, complete with the writers’ first hand experiences. Although the blog caters to all of PC gaming only, the writers’ passion for it shines through the posts, leaving you with the feeling that these men will dedicate their lives to bring their readers the latest news in the PC gaming industry.