Ashley Hasty Shares Her Literary Journey and the Intersection of Fashion History and Storytelling
PHOTO: Ashley Hasty, a dynamic writer and literary influencer, brings history to life through her storytelling and creative endeavors.
Exploring 1940s Fashion
Ashley Hasty discusses her literary platform, passion for historical fiction and fashion history, and the integration of her diverse roles shaping her writing and creative pursuits.
Ashley Hasty is a multi-talented individual whose work seamlessly bridges the realms of literature, history, fashion, and education. As the visionary behind Hasty Book List, she has not only curated a renowned literary platform that started from a simple Instagram hashtag but has also established herself as a leading voice in the literary community. Her background as a fashion historian and educator shines through in her writing, imbuing her work with authenticity and depth that captivates readers and invites them to explore history through a novel lens.
In this captivating interview with Mosaic Digest magazine, Ashley shares insights into her creative journey, revealing how her diverse roles as a writer, artist, and educator, along with her experiences in academia, have shaped her endeavors. Her passion for storytelling is infectious, as she has deftly transitioned from teaching at Indiana University to creating a vibrant space where book lovers can gather and engage. Through her upcoming historical fiction manuscript, Ashley continues to weave her expertise in 1940s fashion into narratives that resonate with culture and identity, making a significant impact on both her characters and her readers.
As we delve into the many layers of Ashley’s work in this interview, we celebrate her commitment to connecting authors with audiences, and her dedication to nurturing a thriving literary community. Mosaic Digest magazine is honored to feature such a dynamic voice that continues to enrich the world of literature and inspire readers around the globe.
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.
