Stylized: Melissa Renee - Wardrobe Stylist

Tell me about you: where are you from, how old are you?

Umm I'm 20 - something. Lol ..I just recently became so fully aware of my age. It isn't that I'm old, I guess just that I'm getting older. 

I was raised in Orlando most of my life and partly miami. It sounds devastatingly bland but I suppose it's how I got such a great imagination. There wasn't much to do in Orlando but read fashion magazines. Like most girls I started with vogue. Miami is pretty much the same except there was a beach.. Which I loved. This is where I began perusing my dream of wardrobing. I started doing test shoots and attending the Art Institute where I learned that merchandising was probably the wrong degree for me and dropped out.

What do you do?

I do a couple of things right now. I left my buying position with a boutique in Miami to chase my dreams here in NY. I'm working to become a full time wardrobe stylist. I also help run a blog with my partner, Von Ford, www.unisixx.com. The site is a compilation of our work, our thoughts and views on new collections, fashion show coverage, interviews with up and coming models etc. 

When did you know that Fashion was something you were passionate about?

I knew that I was passionate about fashion after the feeling I got while styling my first photoshoot. Before then it was just a dream. I am still learning, and growing, and falling I'm love with it everyday. Moving to New York was a huge source of inspiration for me and the biggest reality check. Once I got that reality check and knew that I still wanted to do this, I knew it was the right path for me.  

What has been your biggest accomplishment to date?

As for now, my biggest accomplishment is just going after my dreams. Moving to this intimidating, making new friends, a new life with no regret and only my ambition. 

What advice do you have for others aspiring to do what you do?

My advice to anyone who wants to be a stylist is to not lose site of your vision. Do your research, learn fashion history, the who's who and what's what, and be your biggest critic

How can we stay connected with you?

You can stay connected with me through www.unisixx.com

and also through my tumblr www.melreneestyles.tumblr.com

Social media - Instagram - melreneestyles 

Hello New York!

After years of contemplation, and anticipation; it is safe to say that I will be spreading my wings and moving to none other than the Big Apple. Moving to New York has been a long term goal for me for some time now, and I am finally ready to make the city that never sleeps my new home. It's amazing what can happen when you let go of fear and put your trust in Jehovah God.

No more than just three and a half weeks ago I made a day trip to drop my résumé at various retailers and ended up leaving with a job offer from BCBG. You better believe I took that offer with no hesitation at all lol. Now in just one weeks time, I will be transitioning from DC to NY, and I am looking forward to the many opportunities that may be tossed my way. From styling, to design, I can't wait to continue to expand my knowledge and develop my skills.

With all of this being said, I encourage you all to follow your passions and do things when you are READY, not when others think you should. "Everyone evolves at his/her own rate. It aint a race. Stay in your lane" ~ E. Badu

 

"Nothing beats a fail but a try" ~ My Father

 

Be Inspired...

Moving away from outfits, and focusing more on the photography. The importance of light, shadow, and angles. So simple, yet complex. I'm forever training my eye.

 

 

 

 

{images via tumblr}



"Charlie" Behind The Scenes

Monday I got back in the "studio" aka T-Square Loft and shot an amazing editorial with my dream team. Karmin our model, and one of my favorite faces of the moment, MUA Anthony, and my amazing photographer Lee. I can't recall exactly how this concept came about, but I knew I wanted to play on masculine and feminine, with the makeup channeling Charlie Chaplin amped up a notch. For wardrobe, I stayed true to my aesthetic; versatile and simplistic. I can't wait to share the actual photos with you all!

In the mean time.. take a peek behind the scenes.

Prints or Whateva

 

 

 

So when we're not working, we're taking pictures on our Iphone's? Lol 

{Photography: Sahra}

Wearing Prabal Gurung Shirtdress, ASOS Faux Leather pants, Aldo wedges, Thrifted belt and Restycle Ring 

It's Rumba Time

Everyone needs a stylish watch, and these are just perfect. I was first introduced to these men's and women's timepieces by my friend Katherine who happens to do  PR work for the company. What I love most about Rumba Time watches is how easily they can be layered with other jewelry, and aren't bulky and overstated. It's the subtly that draws me in.

New release Tribeca

 

 

 

 

Be Inspired...

Knits and things

 

 

 

 

{Images via Tommy Tom and Tumblr}

 

Sweat shirts and chunky knits paired with chic structured bottoms. WIN.

Currently Coveting: Marie Saint Pierre

 

Images from Marie Saint Pierre F/W 13

One of the major benefits of working at a High-End consignment boutique is coming across designers that you didn't even know existed. Last month at work I was taking a consignor appointment when I layed eyes on the most beautiful sheer wool maxi cardigan; but what really caught my attention was the pleated shawl-esq collar and the asymmetrical hem.

Without a second thought, I immediately googled Marie Saint Pierre and fell IN LOVE. This luxury designer brand encompasses everything  that I live for when it comes to design. Quality materials, attention to detail, and an aesthetic that is all her own. She's been in the fashion industry longer than I've been born, and is now one of my design inspirations. Enjoy the visuals

Stylist Chronicals: Published in Ellements Magazine

I've got some EXCITING news to share!! Last month photographer Arantes Stephen reached out to me about styling an editorial for submission to Ellements Magazine, and I accepted the challenge lol. The deadline was September 25th so I had about a week and a half to solidify pulls.

After having a few doors shut in my face, I was able to push through and pull some great pieces from Tari, ANTHOM, and Via Gypset. With these looks; I was going for strong and fearless, and I feel these images embody exactly what I was going for. Keeping colors to a minimum, I focused on patterns, textures, and layering. Side note.. I need that white ANTHOM jacket in my life.

 

 

 

 

 

Models: Shamar Clay and Viktoria Ivanova

Hair: Jermaine Nicholson

Makeup: Anthony Kinard and Ga'Mele Armstrong

Giveaway: FREE Elle Magazine Subscription!

Over the past few months Elle has begun to make me a believer and an avid reader. I remember when I would never even look at an Elle magazine because I thought the editorials were poop lol, but I've since changed my view.

Elle has become a go to magazine for me. Not only have the editorials become amazing, but the articles are thoughtful and VERY well written. Think witty, funny, and informative. I must say; brava Elle, I am very pleased with this new direction. 

With that being said, I will be gifting one lucky reader a FREE year subscription to Elle Magazine. Just follow these simple steps: 

1. Follow My Designer Dreams on Bloglovin or Google Friend Connect 

2. LIKE My Designer Dreams on FaceBook 

3. Leave a comment with your email address and state that you've done the following above. Winner will be chosen at random. 

*Giveaway ends 10/21/13 

Stylized: Keith Wiggins of Omen Brand

 

 

 

Tell me about you: where are you from, how old are you?
I'm from Washington DC, 25 years old

What do you do? 

I work in retail "Urban Outfitters" and I design for my own Line "Omen Brand".

 When did you know that Fashion was something you were passionate about?

I knew I wanted to be in fashion around the age of 8 or 9 mainly Fashion Photography, but once I started studying photography I came to the realization that it was just a hobby, and that deep down inside I wanted to design clothing that's reflected me as an artist. 

What has been your biggest accomplishment to date?


To date my biggest accomplishment well I'd rather say accomplishments Placing 1st in the Fashion Group International "Red Carpet Competition" where I created a color blocked gown inspired by the famous painting The Swing   by artist Jean-Honore Fragonard, The second would be interning for "Halston Heritage" which is located in NY, and of course starting Omen Brand.

 

What advice do you have for others aspiring to do what you do?

The only advice I would give is to follow your heart and go with your gut feeling. Be willing to test the waters of society, but to remain true to your aesthetic. 

Life quote: If there was one quote that summed up your view on life what would it be?

“We are all wonderful, beautiful wrecks. That's what connects us--that we're all broken, all beautifully imperfect.” Emilio Estevez
How can we stay connected with you?

Facebook fan page: https://www.facebook.com/OMEN.BRAND

Instagram: Omen_Brand 

Collection updates: Omenbrand.com

Shop: Omenbrand.storenvy.com

NYFW: Recap #SLUMFLOWER

Three weeks ago while in New York during Fashion Week, I attended the Slumflower exhibition to support and show love to the men of Street Etiquette. I'll save you all the essay, just know that the room was filled with beautiful people and good vibes.. my favorite places to be. Needless to say, I am very proud of Josh and Travis for their many accomplishments.

Enjoy the visuals.

 

NYFW: Kimono Love... A Style Post Pt. 2

 

Two weeks ago while in NY for fashion week, I took a little break to shoot with the homie Dizzy who got some great shots of my fit. Wearing the kimono that makes me feel invincible again lol. You can view the first post HERE 

 

 

 

 

 

Wearing: Kimono from Meeps Vintage, American Apparel crop top, Silence & Noise skirt, and Bisoux Jewelry necklace

NYFW: On The Runway - Custo Barcelona

'Chic, Contemporary, Colour' were the three words used to describe Custo Barcelona's SS 2014 collection, and rightfully so. Custo's use of color and textiles never cease to amaze me. This season, Custo presented a tribal inspired men's and women's line with cool laid back silhouettes. Perfect for the world traveler. Relaxed, colorful, sophisticated, and fun.

NYFW: Backstage at Custo Barcelona

 

 

 

NYFW: Stylin.. Just A Little Bit

Last weekend I made my way to New York for fashion week (GREAT IDEA), and enjoyed every bit of it. I didn't spend much time at the Lincoln Center this time around, but I still managed to capture some pretty cool looks. Check it.

Prepping for Fall...

Ah, the joys of internet shopping. I've started prepping my fall wardrobe with a few pieces from ASOS. Keeping lines clean and structured, with a simple color pallet. I'm loving all of these versatile pieces, not to mention I got them all on SALE!

 

 

 

 

Top here

 

Pants are currently out of stock.. =(

 

 

 

Pants here

How are you prepping for fall?