Style Rules With Mel Moranelli
Great style should look and feel effortless. That’s easier said than done, but the key to creating effortless style is knowing exactly what you like and what works for your body. I used to be a bit of a tomboy when I was younger, and this has definitely influenced the way I dress now – I’ll take something ‘boyish’ like an oversized blazer and team it with something a little more sophisticated like a mini dress. It’s taking cues from my younger self but evolving that into a more grown up version.
It’s important to dress for where you’re going. So much of my inspiration comes from books, magazines, movies and blogs, but it’s taken me a while to realise that life isn’t about dressing like an editorial shoot – it’s about being functional. My advice? Let the editorial side guide, but not dictate, your personal style.
Building a great wardrobe is all about making considered purchases. Shop slowly and carefully instead of making lots of impulse purchases – creating an exciting and elevated curation of neutral pieces takes time and patience, so look for varied silhouettes and tones, as well as more statement pieces to keep things interesting.
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Don’t underestimate the power of the perfect leather jacket. A favourite of mine is from a Montreal-based brand called La Marque and everything about it is spot on: soft, supple leather as well as an 80s-style silhouette of padded, dropped shoulders. It goes with everything, but I’ve been wearing it recently with a graphic tee, cream midi skirt, baseball cap and strappy sandals – my favourite look so far this season.
Every woman’s wardrobe should be grounded in good quality basics. Jeans, a crew neck sweater and an oversized coat to wrap up in are a must for autumn/winter, as well as a mannish tailored blazer and a good pair of boots. An oversized blazer is the one thing I couldn’t live without – you can throw it on and instantly elevate any outfit. Boots-wise, I’ve got my eye on Prada’s Monolith pair.
Find a few brands you love and stay loyal to them. I have followed several since they opened their doors and am always excited to see what they come up with: Overload for statement yet classic jewellery, as well as Source Unknown for amazing fashion pieces at an affordable price point. In terms of luxury designers, Loewe, Chloé and Dion Lee are some of my favourites and if I had to wear one brand forever, it would be Jacquemus. I love how each collection from these brands translates so seamlessly from the runway to everyday styling. That’s what good design means to me.
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The pieces worth investing in are the ones that complete your look. Things like bags, shoes, jackets, jewellery and accessories that are interchangeable and won’t date as trends develop. My favourite bag is my black Nile by Chloé, which I’ve had in my wardrobe forever – I love juxtaposing its feminine design with my more boyish clothing choices. I’m also loving a silk scarf at the moment – I have a few from a brand called Aeneis Paris. I wear mine tied round my neck cowboy style with a matching tracksuit or long dress.
Before buying something, live with it in your mind for a while. I never regret fashion purchases because I stick to this rule. Don’t imagine it in your closet, but instead, on yourself and in your daily routine. Ask yourself: how will you style it? Where are you going and what are you doing in it? My most recent purchase was a pair of grey Adidas Temper Run sneakers from Ssense and I can safely say I’ve worn them with everything. From tracksuits to mini dresses…
My biggest piece of style advice is don't invest in someone else’s wardrobe. It’s so easy these days to click and shop someone’s style that you can forget to put your own spin on things. I also live by the phrase ‘comfort first, style second’. Being comfortable in what you’re wearing goes back to the idea of effortless style, but it doesn’t mean ditching your heels for a pair of joggers every time – wear what makes you feel good and feels like you.
INSPIRATION CREDIT: Instagram.com/_M_e_l
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