Ashley Hasty Embraces Literature, Fashion History, and Storytelling to Build a Thriving Literary Platform

From Fashion History to Book Blogging, Ashley Hasty Brings a Unique Perspective to the Literary World

Ashley Hasty, creator of Hasty Book List, blends her expertise in fashion history and storytelling to curate a dynamic literary platform that connects readers, authors, and historical narratives in a meaningful way.

Ashley Hasty has seamlessly woven together her passions for literature, fashion history, and education, creating a unique space in the literary world. As the founder of Hasty Book List, what began as a simple Instagram hashtag has evolved into a well-respected platform that connects readers with authors and showcases insightful book recommendations. With an academic background in fashion history and branding, Ashley’s expertise extends beyond the written word—she understands the intricate ways in which storytelling, identity, and culture intersect.

Her love for historical fiction is deeply influenced by her knowledge of fashion history, allowing her to craft narratives rich in period detail and authenticity. Though her manuscript exploring 1940s fashion remains on hold, her dedication to storytelling continues through her work in academia and blogging. Balancing roles as an artist, educator, and mother, Ashley approaches each facet of her life with creativity and purpose, proving that passion and adaptability can lead to meaningful contributions in multiple fields. In this interview, she shares insights into her journey, the evolution of Hasty Book List, and the ways in which her diverse experiences shape her perspective on literature and beyond.

A passionate advocate for literature, Ashley Hasty’s insights into historical fiction and branding have transformed Hasty Book List into a trusted space for book lovers and authors alike.

Your upcoming historical fiction manuscript focuses on 1940s fashion. How has your
extensive background in fashion history influenced the narrative and character
development in your writing?

Before having a child, I wrote a manuscript. My background in
fashion history allows me to weave authentic details into my storytelling, making the world of my
manuscript feel immersive and true to the era. Fashion is never just about clothing—it reflects
culture, identity, and even politics. In the 1940s, wartime restrictions influenced everything from
fabric choices to silhouette changes, and I use these elements to inform my characters’
personal struggles and triumphs. The research process is one of my favorite parts of writing
historical fiction, and my academic foundation helps me blend fact with fiction in a compelling
way. However, since becoming a stay-at-home-mom, I’ve put this particular creative pursuit on
hold. I do hope to return to it someday and hopefully get it published in the future. It is a story
that needs to be told.

Transitioning from academia to blogging, how did your experience teaching fashion
history and branding at Indiana University shape the content and direction of Hasty Book
List?

Teaching fashion history and branding at Indiana University gave me a deep appreciation
for storytelling—not just in books but in how people and brands communicate their identities.
That understanding shaped the way I approached Hasty Book List, ensuring it wasn’t just a
place for book recommendations but a thoughtfully curated space where literature, history, and
personal experience intersect. My academic experience also gave me confidence in research
and analysis, which I apply when reviewing books and interviewing authors. Additionally,
branding plays a key role in the success of any platform, and I leveraged that knowledge to
make Hasty Book List a recognizable and trusted name in the literary community.

Hasty Book List started as a simple Instagram hashtag and has grown into a
comprehensive literary platform. What were some pivotal moments that contributed to its
evolution?

One of the first pivotal moments was when I expanded from Instagram posts to a full
website. This allowed me to offer more in-depth reviews, interviews, and book lists beyond the
constraints of social media. Another key moment was when authors and publishers began
reaching out for features, which helped establish Hasty Book List as a respected literary
platform. The biggest transformation, though, was embracing SEO and the more administrative
aspects of running a blog. When I recognized the blog could be more than a personal space
and more of a resource to others, I opened this blog up to more readers. Each of these moments helped shape Hasty Book List into what it is today—a dynamic and multi-platform
resource for book lovers.

As the curator behind “Hasty Book List”, what unique perspectives do you bring to discussions, and how has this role enriched your engagement with the literary community?

Curating Hasty Book List has given me the opportunity to engage with literature
from multiple angles—not just as a reader, but as an advocate for authors and a connector
between books and their ideal audiences. My background in fashion history helps me
appreciate how cultural narratives influence storytelling, and I bring that perspective into my
discussions about books. Additionally, my experience as an educator means I approach
literature with an analytical mindset, always looking for themes and deeper meanings that might
resonate with readers. Running Hasty Book List has also expanded my literary community,
allowing me to form meaningful relationships with authors, publishers, and fellow book lovers.
It’s incredibly fulfilling to create a space where books are celebrated and where readers can
discover their next favorite story.

Balancing roles as a writer, artist, educator, and mother is no small feat. How do these
diverse aspects of your life intersect and influence each other, both personally and
professionally?

These roles are deeply intertwined, often in unexpected ways. My love for
history and storytelling influences how I engage with my son, whether it’s through reading
together or exploring museums in Chicago. My artistic side helps me approach writing and
blogging with creativity, and my background in education ensures that I remain curious and
eager to learn. Parenthood has also reshaped my relationship with time—I’ve become more
intentional with my creative pursuits, knowing that every moment is valuable. Ultimately, these
roles feed into each other, making me a more well-rounded storyteller and a more mindful
creator in all aspects of my work.

“Parenthood has reshaped my relationship with time—I’ve become more intentional with my creative pursuits, knowing that every moment is valuable.” – Ashley Hasty