100% 5 Star Reviews Since 2013
That’s right. We’ve worked with hundreds of women to ensure that each one has a highly curated experience with clear structure and measurable results. Our goal is for every Poplin client to understand how to dress her body in clothes that flatter her frame, colors that are ideal for her skin tone and communicate her authentic personal style. When possible, those choices also align with her values. Sounds like something you’d like to experience? No one can tell the story of the Poplin client experience better than our clients. Check out our client reviews for detailed feedback on the client experience and enjoy our Client Stories page for photos and videos of real Poplin clients. We can’t wait for you to dive in!
Full disclosure: In the early years of the business, a very kind woman sent a Facebook message that she had inadvertently given Poplin a one start review on Facebook when check out the Facebook page. She couldn’t figure out how to remove it and despite the best efforts of all of us, no one ever did. So let’s call it 99.9%;)
It’s not often that I get to write a review that is so unmitigatedly positive. I found Mellicia and Poplin during a somewhat casual search for personal stylists in the Seattle area. I had reached a point in my personal and professional life where I felt very stuck in terms of the way I presented myself. Although I actually enjoy shopping, the experience of buying clothing was very frustrating: very often, what I bought wouldn’t fit well, wouldn’t look good, or wouldn’t fit my lifestyle. As a result, I fell into the trap of feeling as if something was wrong with my body, and feeling deeply suspicious of “fashion” because it didn’t seem like it was attainable for me. I had a closet full of clothing I wished I liked but didn't, felt uncomfortable in, or just never wore, and more often than not I would default to athletic clothing.
I was struck, when I saw the Poplin website, by how thoughtful Mellicia’s process seemed to be and how different all of her clients looked. While I initially balked at the price tag—I’ve never spent so much money on something “frivolous”—at the end of the process, I can say with certainty that, well, you get what you pay for.
The Poplin experience is thoughtfully designed by someone who is a genius in her domain. Mellicia is experienced and knowledgeable about fashion, she has thought deeply about what works for different people and what looks good on different body types… and crucially, she excels at drawing out her clients to help them articulate their wants and needs. At every step of the way, she related to me as an individual and checked in to solicit my feedback. When we encountered hiccups, she listened thoughtfully and made certain I felt comfortable. And at the end of the day, working with her was just fun.
I can say without a doubt that choosing to work with Poplin changed my life. The process was challenging, expanding, and deeply rewarding. I now know and love my personal style; I have a wardrobe I enjoy; and I have the skills to find clothing I like, as well as to adjust that clothing to my body via tailoring. But it goes beyond clothes: Mellicia helped me think deeply about how I wanted to express myself in the world. I never expected that working with a personal stylist would have profound ripple effects beyond my wardrobe… but it did.
I would recommend Poplin, and Mellicia, without hesitation. She really is as good as her website suggests :) While your specific experience will differ from mine—that is what Mellicia is good at!—you can trust that it will be tailored with great skill to what you need and want, and that the end result will be incredible.
I was struggling to put myself together every day after covid, and a promotion that required more than business casual was creating even more stress. My husband told me about Poplin, and by the time my initial consultation ended, I knew Mellicia was exactly what I needed. Every step of the way, she listened, encouraged, and found solutions. The fact that she comes with a trusted tailor is truly what sold me because nearly every pair of pants I own need some kind of alterations. She introduced me to new retailers and brands with inclusive sizing and nudged me a few steps out of my comfort zone but well within the style I wanted. When I told her that the outfit photos she'd put together were good but I was facing decision fatigue using them, she went back and created a single outfit per page. Now I can flip through, see what's clean, and simply get dressed and out the door. Before working with Mellicia, I was holding onto things that were 10 years old because I knew they were flattering, and I just ended up frustrated and down after trying to shop. Now I can let them go, and I'm successfully finding pieces that fit with the wardrobe she created for me. I can't say enough about how awesome this experience has been! Knowing that I always have access to a great tailor, as well as getting additional wish lists as I need them, is an incredible added bonus!
Working with Mellicia has provided me with a clear understanding of what clothes work for me taking into account my body shape and my unique style. I now have a closet full, but not overfull, of clothes that I feel great in and am confident in combining in fun ways to meet the occasion - dressed up or down or somewhere in between. And if I'm ever uninspired I have outfit photos Mellicia curated for me to get ideas.
I initially reached out to Mellicia before the pandemic. We completed the intake process which was a complete blast and felt like I was hanging out with a friend and then the world shut down. Mellicia generously refunded my entire fee despite initiating the process. I was bummed and grateful at the same time. Fast forward a little over a year when vaccines were available and the world was opening back up. I reached out to Mellicia to see if she was offering styling services again and I was in luck.
We had a quick Zoom call to see what had changed since before the pandemic and then scheduled the closet edit. The closet edit was a bit shocking as I was left with very few items and knew it would be a while before I was able to replace what wasn’t working with a new wardrobe. Thankfully it was during the pandemic work-from-home period for me, so I was able to get by. And when my Wish List arrived it was like Christmas morning just seeing the photos of the clothes Mellicia selected for me as well as the thoughtful text that accompanied them.
Mellicia had suggested blocking time out on the evening when the Wish List arrived so I could spend the time placing the orders. She had scoured the internet for great deals on clothes that worked for my style and body type. Given many were great deals I had to make sure I made the purchase before the inventory was gone. In one case it was already gone but a quick text to Mellicia and she sent a new link to another site that worked!
I loved all the items I ordered with the exception of one jacket and Mellicia took no offense and just said, “send it back.” There was one brand that I wasn’t familiar with yet and had to exchange many pieces because of the size differences. Some of the items were on sale and so were not able to be exchanged but Mellicia had connections and made it all possible to be exchanged. That brand, Universal Standard, is now one of my absolute favorites for its size inclusivity, stylish clothing, and great customer experience.
I’ve continued to work with Mellicia and had two additional Wish Lists, both of which I adore. I also went through the Outfits service which is phenomenal. Having that set of outfits curated by Mellicia is a dream. My photo shoot came almost 4 years after my initial interaction with Mellicia thanks largely to the pandemic, but it turns out to be the perfect timing for me. The makeup artist (Jessica Rockwell) and photographer (ICON Photography), as well as Mellicia’s guidance through the whole process made what would have been a stressful situation actually fun. And Mellicia honored the original price we had agreed to which was incredibly generous.
I highly recommend Poplin Style Direction for the full suite of services. If you are on the fence about reaching out, make the call or send the email. It has been such a positive experience for me and I will benefit for years to come.
Hello All, my name is Erin Chapman-Smith and I am the Senior Director of Housing Services at YouthCare. I wanted to take a quick moment to share the impact that Mellicia has had with our clients. Many of our clients are entering our services never having had the opportunity to safely be themselves. Mellicia has given them a voice to center their identity, provided them the ability to learn how to reflect their amazingness outward, and given them the ability to stand proudly in who they are. The impact of this is massive and the number lives she has changed and impacted can not even be put into words. I will always be so grateful for the work and support she has done for our clients, for me, and for the organization.
Let me take you on a stylish journey through my fashion metamorphosis, all thanks to the incredible Mellicia. Picture this: I used to have a yawn-inducing formula for dressing, leaving me feeling like a fashion flop. But Mellicia? She's my style savior, my wardrobe wizard, and the key to unlocking the door to confident dressing.
Our adventure began just before the pandemic hit, in those blissful days when Zoom calls and sweatpants were mere novelties. Mellicia swooped into my fashion life and instantly understood that I needed a style approach that truly represented ME. She became the compass guiding me towards quick, confident, and oh-so-chic outfit choices.
First things first, we embarked on a mission to define my style keywords. Imagine sitting down with a fashion oracle who extracts your essence and translates it into words that resonate with your very soul. That's Mellicia! These keywords became the secret code to unlocking my fashion potential.
Next, we dove headfirst into my closet, armed with a newfound sense of direction. Mellicia unleashed her closet sorcery, helping me identify the pieces that truly spark joy and those that had overstayed their welcome. Goodbye, closet clutter! This cathartic process left me with a curated collection that whispered, "wear me."
Then came the delightful task of shopping for those key pieces. Mellicia possesses an uncanny knack for finding treasures. Each purchase was a stroke of fashion genius, a puzzle piece that completed the picture of my newfound style.
Fast forward to 2023, and Mellicia and I joined forces once again, this time for a whole new level of fashion fun. She conjured up outfit boards that were nothing short of magic. Who knew the items hanging in my closet could be transformed into so many dazzling combinations? Every day feels like a fashion show, and I strut through life with newfound confidence.
And let's not forget the game-changer: business trips. Thanks to Mellicia's expertise, packing for these journeys has become a breeze. No more last-minute panics or wardrobe crises. I simply consult my style keywords and outfit boards, and voilà! I'm ready to conquer the world, one stylish step at a time.
Mellicia isn't just a fashion consultant; she's a style fairy godmother who sprinkles confidence and creativity into your closet. Working with her is like embarking on a thrilling fashion adventure, and I couldn't recommend her more. If you're ready to redefine your style, embrace confidence, and have more fun with fashion, Mellicia is your go-to guide. She's the real-life unicorn in the world of style, and I'm forever grateful for her fashion magic!
TL;DR - if you have the funds, Just F%@&*ng Do It
This is gonna be long. Strap in.
I moved up to Seattle for my partner a couple years ago. A natural tropical flower, my afro-latina ass was *shook* at how COLD and WET it truly was here. So, in addition to the exponentially growing collection of pandemic-inspired sweat pants, I found myself buried in bulky, rain-resistant, outerwear, all purchased out of desperation.
As the world began to open up and my partner and I started bringing our date nights to the outside world again, I began slowly noting that I’d often repeat the same outfit. Determined to shake things up, I went to my closet set on finding something that wasn’t leggings, heels, and a dolman-sleeve top.
After a full hour (seriously, a full hour) tearing my room apart and manically laugh-crying at the absurdity of how weirdly emotional I was getting, I came to the realization that I’d become one of those people with a closet full of clothes and “nothing to wear”. And after drinking some wine about it, I recognized that what was *actually* making me feel some type of way was the fact that in the nearly two years that I’d been up here, I’d completely lost my identity.
I went from a wardrobe of fitted pieces in canary yellows, emerald greens, hot pinks, royal-blues—the type that would make even a bird of paradise or a mantis shrimp go “damn, bitch, you are *extra*”—to one of the bruise palette, with everything in baggy fits of desaturated, purples, blacks, and blues. So it was at 11:45pm on a School Night, almost a bottle of red deep, that I went on the lookout for a stylist and Mellicia’s name popped (or Poplin’d, as it were…sorry) up, and I requested a consultation.
I almost didn’t respond to her follow-up message the next day. For one, I was hungover (swear to god, you hit 30 and it all goes downhill), but also, what the hell did I need a stylist for? I’d considered myself a pretty fashion-forward person pre-Covid. Surely I could restore my wardrobe to its former glory on my own?
I figured I’d had nothing to lose in at least talking to her, so I went ahead and scheduled the appointment.
Ya’ll. Most worthwhile 90 minutes of my life.
Mellicia didn’t just ask me about my lifestyle, line of work, or aesthetic (Frannie Fine of Iconic 90s Sitcom “The Nanny” meets AOC, for those wondering). She asked about how I wanted to feel. She asked about my values (and then proceeded to hook me up with black-, brown-, queer-owned pieces and sustainable brands). She made the entire process collaborative, and was also the *only* stylist that worked with a tailor to transform my clothes.
After the initial consult I was sold. Mellicia not only nailed the wishlist and style from the start, she made me realize that a lot of the pieces that I gravitated towards I didn’t know where to *look* for them. So even if I’d gone on this journey to re-build my wardrobe on my own, I didn’t know where to source the best-quality ones.
She even helped me upgrade my loungewear. Now, I have outfits that are both comfortable and still make me feel put-together enough that I wouldn’t be mortified if Michelle Obama herself knocked on my door and asked me to join her for a last-minute tea party with Jacinda Ardern and AOC.
Mellicia is not a person that is going to half-ass this process. She is going to whole-ass it—the woman earns every red cent of that price point that initially made me balk. I now have a closet of clothes arranged in ROYGBIV (COLOR! Sweet, merciful COLOR) that I love and outerwear that is both warm *and* stylish.
Best of all, while I feel fashion-forward and trendy in everything I now own, I also feel that everything Mellicia sourced for me is classic enough that when the tide invariably turns once again (flares are back, seriously! Teenage Me would be so stoked), I still don’t feel I’ll look dated; no more purchasing fast fashion every other month because I have Nothing To Wear.
This experience hasn’t just been fun, it’s truly been an *investment*. If you’re privileged enough to have the funds, trust me—Just F%@&*ng Do It.
Working with Mellicia was more than I could have asked for. I reached out to her when I knew that I was ready to start looking into dating again. Having been out of the game for 20+ years and now re-entering the scene with a child, middle-aged, a career and a wardrobe that had not been touched in decades, I needed a professional. I wanted someone who could put a few outfits together so that I could feel confident, sexy (which I didn't know how to accomplish), and still be authentic to the "new" me following my divorce.
What I got was a friend, a cheerleader, an education on how to style myself, and an amazing wardrobe that takes me from kids games, to work, to galas to date nights. She makes me look amazing even when I'm in the check-out line at Costco. Getting ready is so easy now. She works with your existing clothes, brings in new pieces and makes everything easy to dress up or dress down. Getting your "wishlist" is the BEST. It is such a treat to confidently place your online orders and when they arrive, they fit like a glove and you can start wearing them immediately. It is incredible and such an education.
Mellicia, Thank you for playing such an important role in this chapter of my life. I couldn't have done it without you.
For starters, I need more than 5 stars for this review! If you had asked me a year ago if I felt confident choosing clothing for myself, I would have answered "Yes". I move boldly through my life and I thought I knew what looked good on me. Something I read led me to Mellicia's website for Poplin Style Direction. Hours went by as I scrolled through her clients' photo shoots, style sheets, color and body shape profiles, outfits and testimonials. I was captivated. Several women expressed that they had spent so many years focused outward, that they could no longer see themselves. That rang true for me.
Working with Mellicia has been an enlightening and transformative experience. It is a "trust fall" to let someone into your closet. By embracing the process, I had more fun than I ever could have imagined. I now have a colorful, stylish, unique wardrobe that reflects my creative spirit and my desire to support sustainable brands made by diverse designers. I learned so much about what looks good on me and why. I now know specific makers, colors and styles that flatter my body type. I am asked daily about what I'm wearing and get to say things like "This jacket is made of cactus leather", or "This bag supports craftswomen in Ethiopia".
Mellicia brings her big heart, keen insight and years of experience in fashion to every aspect of the process. Whether I'm meeting with clients, going to a party, performing on stage or walking the dog, my clothes are a reflection of a newfound joy and pride in my appearance. I walk with a spring in my step. I will be forever grateful for Mellicia, she helped me find my "shine".
Mellicia was amazing to work with. She changed my life, and helped me find my style. I'm finally confident to wear colors, to standout and be me She was responsive, size inclusive, helpful and overall amazing. She was worth every penny.
Best decision of my life! Working with Melicia was the best thing I have done for myself as a single, professional woman living in the city. Creating a unique style approach for my body type and lifestyle has made getting dressed so much more peaceful and inspiring. Now I look put together as I've always hoped to look. Shopping is SO easy for me now, because I find and style pieces that work for my lifestyle. Forever will work with Mellicia!
Once upon a time, I enjoyed shopping and creating outfits. Fast forward decades later... changing body due to motherhood and age, limited time / energy / interest in shopping, and a few years of pandemic doldrums and I needed to hit the fashion reset button. I found myself rotating the same handful of outfits for work and felt like I had nothing suitable to wear for the occasional date night.
I work in a creative field, so I almost felt embarrassed that I had to ask for help dressing myself! But it was more than that. I had lost touch with where to find clothes that fit my lifestyle, age, shape, and mindset.
Mellicia made me feel that I was enlisting the help of a good friend who wouldn't hesitate to tell the truth! The closet edit (virtual in our case) was so eye-opening. Not only did I realize there were true gems lurking in my closest, Mellicia provided the spark I needed to begin this process. We hadn't even shopped yet and I already felt like I had new outfits. (A practice I have always called "shopping in my closet"!)
She expanded my knowledge of brands and retailers that would suit me - physically and stylistically. I purchased things I wouldn't normally consider (and have no regrets)! Mellicia helped me see beyond the online photos of a tall, slender model to how I could rock the same look. We probably tailored 90% of what I purchased, which was totally necessary for me: petite, but curvy, and somehow still considered a rectangle!! We also modified a ton of pieces I already owned. It was like having more new pieces just for the cost of the tailoring.
I kept a few of my favorite hoodies, but they are reserved for relaxing at home rather than my standard daily attire. I would wholeheartedly recommend Mellicia to someone interested in a clothing overhaul. You'll feel better on the inside as well.
Update: I went to Mellicia after being really frustrated with what I was wearing. I was falling into a frumpy rut of skinny jeans/cardigan/flats. I work in tech as a manager and the usual style suggestions for the workplace simply did not translate to a casual environment. In addition, as a plus size woman, I felt I had zero options available.
Mellicia introduced me to new clothing, brands, and clothing styles. She helped me find clothing that made me feel FANTASTIC. She also values your comfort and will not put you in clothing or shoes that you cannot live in. I learned how to wear sneakers! And fantastic leather jackets!
Update: I've been working with Mellicia through weight gain and loss and she's there for you every step. She helps you feel good and look cool. And not just style, her recommendations for LIFE are above and beyond!
-Caitlyn S., July, 2022 Update Yelp Review
Just go for it. Mellicia is the best. I went to her as I was sick of trying to find clothing as a plus-size short gal who didn't want to look like a secretary. I was in a rothys-skinnyjeans-top rut. I hated shopping and did it as a matter of necessity. She taught me SO MUCH.
First, she introduced me to hipper clothing that's also MORE COMFORTABLE. Seriously. I'm now working from home every day, but I'm no longer wearing the lounge leggings (never leggings) I used to. I'm wearing Mellicia-selected outfits and I feel wonderful.
She did exactly what I wanted, worked with where I'm comfortable, and pushed me into newer, hipper territory.
Mellicia is one of the most amazing person I have ever met - she is so caring about her clients and truly wants to help her clients be the best they can be in their image and style. Mellicia is the definition of style and she has such an incredible eye with what works well for each different body type. I love working with Mellicia and the workshops that she has done for The Koa Club and Leading Women in Technology non-profit have really resonated well with so many women. I highly recommend Mellicia and her company!
Mellicia was referred to me by my sister who loved her sessions. I was the first virtual closet visit and it was so freeing! Mellicia was caring, warm and patient. I recommend her services as this was an incredible experience. I now feel happy, comfortable and beautiful!
When I reached out to Mellicia early this year, the pandemic fatigue had finally gotten to me. I knew I needed a transformation and it was long overdue but I had been putting it off. I was a bit unsure about how the styling service would work in this new pandemic world that we now live in and was still on the fence on whether I should go forward with it. It took just one meeting with Mellicia and I knew I could trust her to go on this journey with me. Mellicia has been so AMAZING to work with - she really listened and took the time to understand my needs, aspirations and created a customized styling profile. We did a closet edit - online! - guess what, having Mellicia in my closet virtually worked out pretty well. The uber wishlist was great and so was the fitting session - I now own clothes that are tailored and suited for my style and body type. Mellicia then paired all my clothes and accessories to put together an awesome Outfit catalog that I can refer to anytime, and that really takes the stress off of dressing for a busy mom such as me! The photoshoot was so much fun, and because it was all outdoors, I felt super safe to participate. Overall, I feel a renewed sense of confidence after going through this process. Mellicia has really helped me get my swagger back!
Mellicia really helped me find me. I always had an idea of the kind of vibe/feeling that I want to give out to the world through clothing, but I could never get it quite right. I struggled with expressing myself in that way and often looked in the mirror and thinking that "this isn't the real me". Despite how silly that sounds lol, that was my true feeling for many of the clothes I wore before I met Mellicia. After Mellicia helped me, I not only start to wear clothes that I truly enjoy, but am also start to get better at finding the exact kind of clothes that I want from the sea of different kinds of stores online. For all of these, I thank Mellicia very much! And besides, Mellicia is super delight to work with, which is something that I always appreciate!
I love working with Mellicia! I'm super busy with work and family and covid quarantine really highlighted how sad my closet was looking. Mellicia shared her expertise, kept the process on track and now I've got gorgeous things to wear and am not in hoodies and leggings 24/7. She kept my budget in mind and helped me figure out the style that works with my life and makes me feel effortlessly pulled together. This was such a great use of my limited time and energy. I completely trust Mellicia to help me look and feel good about my new wardrobe. I'll definitely continue to work with her.
Update: July 2021
I've been working with Mellicia and Poplin Style since 2013. She helped me develop my signature style when I was a new business owner to uniforms for my spa employees. She even helped me pick out my wedding dress! The gal is multitalented. After Covid and months of living in loungewear, I was ready for something new, and since I had shifted to real estate, rebranding was at the top of my list.
I called Mellicia, and before I knew it, she had gathered her team, booked a date, and came over to my home to pick the outfits for the event. The best part? Everything was already in my closet! Mellicia keeps me updated with quarterly mini-wish lists that work with my current wardrobe while upping my fashion game with every item.
When I arrived, the Poplin-style squad got to work glamming me head to toe for a dreamy photoshoot. Hanna was in charge of hair and make-up, making me feel movie star gorgeous but still me. Just a better version.
The actual photoshoot felt like one big party. I changed outfits, chatted with everyone, and the best part was we all laughed a lot. I never felt awkward or that I had to smile in a forced way. As someone who has always felt dorky with a capital D in front of the camera, I finally relaxed and enjoyed the whole experience.
The results were spectacular. Mellicia's enthusiasm, professionalism, and all-around kick-ass awesomeness shine through everything she does; this photoshoot experience was no exception. So if you are thinking about getting a personal stylist, pick up the phone and call Mellicia at Poplin style. STAT.
Really, just do it!
-Lisabet, Update: July 2021 Yelp Review
If you are thinking, do I need a personal stylist, you do! Almost four years ago I made the investment with Mellicia at Poplin Style and it's one of the best business decisions I've ever made. I lived almost five years in active wear and knew I needed help with my image as I began my journey as a business owner. After meeting with several stylists, I knew Mellicia was a match. She delightfully made the whole process easy and fun. Editing my closet was an amazing experience, Mellicia helped me erase decades of body shaming in one fell swoop. I see myself completely differently and that is a true gift! I've continued to work with Poplin with seasonal wish lists, a dream of perfect pieces picked just for me. Seriously, who doesn't need this?
Business wise, Mellicia helped me source (gorgeous!) and functional uniforms that keep my staff looking and feeling fantastic as they work.
And, she helped me find my wedding dress! Girlfriends and relatives are wonderful but someone that knows how to make you feel like a magical movie star princess through one dress, priceless...
Working with Mellicia at Poplin Style was absolutely amazing. I've always struggled with what to wear, feeling out of place at weddings, graduations, anything where people wore more than jeans and a t-shirt. I've occasionally found things I liked, but never knew what to pair them with or how to put an outfit together.
One thing I was nervous about, when thinking about working with a stylist, was whether I would feel awkward, or like I was dressed as someone else. It was clear from the first meeting, though, that that was absolutely not going to be the case. Mellicia asked me so many questions, and I could tell she was digging down trying to really understand my sense of style, and what felt good to me. And holy cow she completely nailed it.
I now have this wardrobe where everything goes with everything else, everything makes me feel comfortable and cool and like myself. It's made business meetings more fun and less stressful, and the idea of being invited to a wedding no longer gives me a panic attack.
The other thing I was nervous about was whether it would be super expensive. Mellicia did an awesome job working within my budget, though. Also, I don't feel like I'll need to buy anything for a while, and everything I have I'm using. Also, I don't have to shop anymore. Before, whenever I would walk through Target or past another store, I would be thinking things like, 'oh, maybe I should get that, maybe that would be cute.' I wasted so much money buying things on Amazon that looked horrible. The mental freedom of knowing that my wardrobe is just... done? Complete and working and awesome? Amazing.
I learned so much about how to dress for my body, and about what kinds of styles I like, and about how I like to look. It's been an extremely fun experience that's carried over into so many other areas of my life. Highly, highly recommended.
Any interaction with Mellicia always brightens my day and is well worth the investment in her style services. The full package is full of value and transformed my life, and my wardrobe... making it more in line with who I am, and easy to use. She taught me how to move forward on my own, or I can reach out as needed for major milestones in my life (pregnancy, post-partum, new job, etc). Her blog articles are brimming with gems. Her services would make a great mother's day or holiday gift for your wife, girlfriend, or partner! It's the gift that keeps on giving (in a good way!) Highly recommend.
This is not a drill!
Mellicia is the real deal...and stripes are neutral. For my 40th birthday, my husband bought me a gift certificate to Poplin Style. I was a little apprehensive at first because I wasn't sure if she would impress upon me a style that wasn't consistent with my values and personal style. From the first time we talked, she was just so warm and open and made me feel comfortable talking to her about my likes and dislikes.
I cannot begin to tell you what a lovely experience it was to have Mellicia style me. After having kids and working in healthcare where my standard uniform was wearing scrubs, I felt my closet needed a boost especially as I was about to start a new job where business casual was the norm. She helped me pull together outfits that I would have never thought would go together. She also left me with tips on how to style myself so that when our time was done I could do it on my own. It has made getting ready way easier in the mornings which was crucial to me as I have small kids, start a new job, and was in school.
Picking out clothes has never been what I would call "fun". I'm your quintessential tomboy who is short but I have huge boobs so finding things that fit my shape and make me feel put together without looking frilly has always been hard, if not impossible. After so many years of fighting with my wardrobe only to feel frumpy all the time, I finally decided to seek "professional help".
Mellicia was exactly the help I needed. She showed me how to play to my strengths, dress for the body I have, and elevate my look without going too far outside of my comfort zone. When we did branch out of that comfort zone, I was always pleasantly surprised by how great I felt while still feeling like myself. She also showed me how to narrow my style, especially in terms of colors, so that when I shop, I can almost instantly ignore the things that won't work. It makes shopping on my own a breeze. In fact I just had a few minutes to browse around a few stores and came away with 4 shirts I know will fill holes in my closet AND work with everything I already have. She also did a great job of finding me items from stores that were totally within my budget, giving great rationale for what items to spend on vs what to save on.
If you are considering giving yourself the gift of an updated wardrobe or a completely new look, don't wait! You'll wish you had hired Mellicia years ago! I certainly do!
I sought out Mellicia because I wanted help breaking out of a wardrobe rut that no longer match me professionally or personally. From our very first chat, I knew I had made the right call and that this was going to be amazing. She really took the time to get to know me and my sense of style, and I always felt heard as we discussed where I wanted to take my look.
Shopping with Mellicia was fantastic and has forever changed my views on clothes shopping. She picked out countless amazing pieces that have elevated my style while keeping true to me. She also taught me how to choose things that best fit my body type and how to pair items for a more polished look.
The best part was the outfit session where she went through my clothes and pulled together tons of complete outfits including bags and shoes. Getting ready in the morning has become so much easier now that I no longer have to sit in front of my closet wondering what to wear. I can just pick an outfit from all the photos on my phone and go out knowing it will look great.
From start to finish, Mellicia made the whole experience completely stress-free and so empowering. My confidence in how I present myself is greater than it's ever been, and I couldn't recommend her highly enough.
Short version: Mellicia is a wizard that can make stress about personal presentation vanish, and is just a supremely fun person to work with while doing it.
Long version:
I've always struggled with clothing and fashion--I've spent most of my life giving up that battle and falling back on the 'jeans, t-shirt, hoodie' paradigm that's so common in the tech industry. To add injury to insult, when I decided to transition in my 30s, and the resulting need to overhaul my wardrobe, I was faced with a mostly alien world. Walking into a big clothing/department store, with a seeming infinite of choices, and intimidating salespeople, and weird sizing (and my weird sizes!), and not having any idea of a style or objective in buying things... well, it was frankly terrifying. So I decided to call in an expert, in Mellicia, and I'm so glad I did!
First off, she made me go on shopping trips, into some of these places that were out of my comfort zone, but instead turned them into something of a 'guided tour' experience, and helped break down a big scary thing into pieces I could manage and understand. Plus, walking into a place and finding out there's already a bunch of stuff waiting for you to try on in the back feels like a total 'rock star' experience. Total 180 from my past fears.
Secondly, while she did pick a variety of things to try out on our first trip, based on a few ideas I had in our discussions, I never felt like I was being steered or railroaded into one particular fashion. In fact, much to my surprise, I found out I did actually have opinions about these things, and Mellicia was super attentive in picking up on what I liked. Iterating on that feedback, she helped me find a style that legitimately feels like me, and now I have a mental model of what's probably going to work for me when I go out shopping now.
Which, I should say, is something I'm comfortable doing now! That's probably the best thing I can say about my experience--I'm sure there's places that can pick out coordinated outfits and call it a day, but by working with Mellicia I've managed to overcome something that's stressed me out for a really long time, and was a major sticking point in achieving my transition goals, and it was entirely a fun and enjoyable time. Well worth it!
I am so happy to have met Mellicia to realize that a stylist is attainable, affordable, life changing and fun! Before working with Poplin Style I would stress over what to wear each morning for client meetings as I didn't feel my wardrobe accurately matched my personality and comfort level. After my initial meeting with Mellicia in the Fall of 2014 I was excited to have a defined style to begin the transformation to have my wardrobe better reflect me.
Working with Poplin Style has been a wonderful experience to aid in my confidence, acceptance of my body now that I have clothes to match my body shape, and establishing my brand for my small business. I began to understand how my confidence, mood, and attitude are affected by how I feel in my clothes which directly affects my business and my brand. It's fun getting dressed in the morning knowing that it's already been figured out for me....I just need to decide the type of mood I'm feeling.
I continue to work with Poplin Style to not only keep my wardrobe pulled together, but also maintain my confidence and brand image.
I never, ever thought I would be the type of person to work with a stylist. On a whim, I bid on a "Closet Edit" with Mellicia at an auction, and I am SO GLAD that I did.
She came over to my house and carefully looked through my clothes to help me filter through some things that don't fit my personal style (which she helped me define first!), organized my clothes so that my closet looked like my own personal boutique, and made suggestions on how to wear some of the pieces I owned but wasn't sure about.
I was hooked!
After that session I signed up to receive quarterly online shopping wish lists from Mellicia. These lists were loaded with links to items personally selected for me by her each quarter, along with notes about why she selected each item, as well as suggestions for what to pair the item with (either from the current list or from her knowledge of my existing wardrobe). The lists were amazing, and I have referenced them often as I make new purchases on my own. There was just the right balance of items that challenged me to dress outside my comfort zone with items that were classically "me".
Most recently I also used Mellicia to help me create some specific outfits. She came over to my house and took over my bedroom for four hours, taking photos of my clothes arranged in outfits, including accessories like jewelry, shoes, and bags. Now when I get dressed in the morning I can just take a look at the handy guide to get inspiration.
I have recommended Mellicia to many women, especially when they're going through a life transition (new job, divorce, new kid, etc.). Mellicia has a great eye and really listens to her clients. You cannot go wrong choosing Poplin Style!
I really hate shopping. It's hard for me to find clothes that fit me and that I think look nice and I was dreading having to get up in the morning and figure out what to wear.
I found Mellicia through Yelp & saw all the reviews and thought this is exactly what I needed. I set up some time and talked with her about my lifestyle, needs, and budget. Honestly, I wasn't sure how just by talking with me for about an hour, she'd have a sense of what I wanted or what I would like but I decided to take a chance.
She sent me a list of curated clothing options all within my budget and I loved 99% of what she picked! It was AMAZING! And then she came over to my place and put all of these really wonderful outfits together. Even better!
So now, in the morning, I just flip through my phone and have 28491823 different outfit options where I look put together and I still consistently get regular compliments on.
I would really recommend working with Mellicia and just may need to reach out to her again in time for Fall/Winter :)
I hate going shopping for clothing, I hate ordering clothing online and I hate getting up and not knowing what to wear in the morning. I was recommended to M from a trusted source and let me tell you - She is AMAZING!
We did a style session, shopping trip, and a tailor session.
I now have a list of outfits I can pick from or just mix and match in my closet. Shopping with her was an eye-opening experience and I felt like a queen. I get up in the morning and can get dressed in 10 minutes, it is just super easy. I look like how I want to now and I am excited to get dressed in the morning. I recommend that if you want to feel on top of your closet, look like a million bucks and feel proud of what you are wearing you should contact M.
Mellicia is such a dream to work with! I especially loved how she helped me understand how to dress my unique body in order to look and feel my best. I finally realized why certain clothes make me feel great and others...not so much. This is a skill that I use EVERY morning when I get dressed for work and every time I go shopping. She also helped me create so many outfits, using clothes I already had in my closet, that I never would have thought to put together on my own (which multiplied my wardrobe without the need to buy a ton of new clothes). We did go shopping together, which was such a blast. She totally respected my budget and didn't pressure me to buy anything - in fact, she empowered me to say "no" to anything I didn't totally love. She really listened to what I wanted and needed and she definitely delivered. The icing on the cake? She is SO fun to hang out with! Treat yourself to some time with Mellicia, ladies. You won't regret it!
I am a tall, preppy, plus-sized person who keeps gaining and losing the same 10-15 pounds, so my closet used to be a mishmash of dresses that didn't quite fit, pants that were too casual for work and tops that didn't have a style goal beyond "goes with black."
Things I learned from Mellicia: black is slimming, but navy actually looks better on me. Cardigans are fine, but blazers would be more versatile. I'm a short-waisted diamond, not a tall-size hourglass...out with the long bootcut and in with the slim ankle pant. Any blouse can go from good to great with a little tailoring, and there is a whole world of prints to consider beyond plaid and stripe. It is even possible to find comfortable dress shoes once "black flat" and "running shoe" aren't the only allowable options!
Ladies, if you are looking to make an investment in yourself but don't know where to begin, this is it. We started by defining goals, budgets and criteria for success, which Mellicia approached with empathy and a great sense of humor; within minutes she felt like an old friend. Try-on sessions and tailoring appointments were in my home, so I felt free to experiment without judgment or pressure to keep something if I didn't love it. Responses to emails and texts were quick and full of encouragement. And I now have a new wardrobe that reflects my true personality, which is equally more professional and more fun than my old clothes were letting on. Everything fits correctly and is effortless to maintain, and I leave the house in the morning feeling put together and comfortable no matter what the scale says.
Super huge bonus that Mellicia donates her clients' old clothes and her styling services to various great causes; she is a genuine ally in every sense of the word.
Mellicia is sharp, warm, bubbly, intuitive, and has a true knack for style. I first got to know about her through my coworker who hired her as her personal stylist and saw how much her confidence, poise, and overall presence shifted at work...I had to have in, and it's been worth every penny. I've always loved shopping, but I found myself spending money on clothes and leaving price tags on for months (sometimes years) because I either didn't know how to put them together with other clothes in my closet or I later felt they didn't actually suit me. Then came Mellicia, who immediately helped me learn how to be strategic about my wardrobe, and shop smart -- she taught me what types of clothing actually suits my body type and changed the way I saw my own wardrobe. Believe me when I say, I cried tears of joy during this experience when Mellicia's touch not only allowed me to more effectively express my personality through my clothing and shop efficiently, but also to look at my closet and feel like I have 100+ outfit combinations that I'm excited about and represent me. Did I mention my closet actually feels like my own personal boutique?! Her ability to put together an outfit tailored to your personality is unmatched, in my opinion. I'd recommend Poplin Style Direction to anyone looking for an amazing, inspiring stylist who will cater a style that makes you feel more like YOU everyday. Thank you Poplin and Mellicia for changing my life!!!
Mellicia donated a gift certificate to a nonprofit and I bought it. Best decision I ever made. And all we did was go through my own closet! I can't imagine how much more amazing it would be to have her shop with me. What made her stand out was that she empowered me to learn how to shop for myself. She studied my shape and listened closely to my preferences and then we went through my closet. It's like I got a sort-of template to work off of for what looks good on me and what doesn't. So now I can shop at a thrift shop, consignment shop, or Nordstrom - anywhere - and know what looks good on me and why. That is life-changing for someone like me that sucks at putting outfits together but who really wants to look polished. I am sooo glad I met her. She didn't judge me, didn't try to get me to buy new clothes I didn't want nor need, and was extremely respectful of my time and my space. She didn't pressure me into spending more money on her "bigger" packages nor into going to fancy boutiques. I love knowing how what specific pieces my closet still needs to feel complete. Friends and family have already noticed my new look and it's only been a few days since Mellicia came into my life. If you are on the fence, just go for it and call her. My closet is now like a beautiful boutique curated just for me. It feels amazing to get dressed now thanks to her.
Working with Mellicia is like working with your best friend. She is fun and kind and knows just what to ask to figure out what I like and want. After we cleaned out my closet I had nearly nothing to wear - literally one pair of pants and a few shirts! Even so I was very apprehensive about shopping. But the trip was amazing. Working with the style guide Mellicia had come up with based on my personal style, everything we tried was my style and came from stores I can easily visit to update my wardrobe in the future. I will happily continue my work with Mellicia and would recommend her to anyone!
I was sick of taking 30 minutes every morning to find something to wear and still ending up feeling frumpy, so when I found Mellicia on yelp it was honest to god a dream come true. After we had our first meeting, I was so excited because I felt like she "got" me and had some really fun ideas about what my fashion sense was & could be. The closet edit was incredible- she shared some basics about how to dress for my body type and then it completely clicked as to why a number of clothing items I had bought loving were always just sitting in my closet never worn. I was dressing completely opposite to what worked for my body! That was such a freeing revelation and i ended up donating probably 60% of my clothes.
After that, she sent me a list of clothing items to replenish my now very small closet and everything was to die for (and in my budget!). I had opted for the photo shoot as well, and had such an incredible time. The photographer and makeup up artist she works with is amazing (I'll write separate reviews for these incredible women) and it was so much fun to get pics wearing these fabulous new clothes!
Lastly, she did the outfit session. And if you do nothing else with Mellicia, do this! She put together complete outfits that I never would have thought of! Now every day is like living in the movie Clueless, where Cher scrolls through outfit combos and finds something amazing to wear. I recommend Mellicia to everyone I know- she has an amazing eye and will help you look & feel great every day!
I've always loved clothes, but hated getting dressed--until I met Mellicia. I decided to hire Mellicia because I was tired of wading through an overstuffed closet full of clothes--many that I never wore--and I didn't want to buy new clothes but instead wear the items that I already owned. Mellicia helped me refine my style and use that as a guide to determine what to keep. After cleaning out my closet she helped me breathe new life into dated pieces by bringing her tailor to my home where Mellicia and the tailor used their expertise to update each piece and ensure that it was modern, reflected my style, and fit properly. As a busy working mom I appreciated that the tailor then came back to my house and had me try each piece to ensure the proper fit. This was an amazing service and I loved that I could extend the life of clothing I really liked and was shocked by how much better the clothing fit after it was tailored to me. And did I mention that I didn't buy one new thing as a result of working with Mellicia? Mellicia put several outfits together for me in an online catalogue using my existing wardrobe--including shoes and accessories--in combinations that I wouldn't have imagined. The result is that I feel like I have a brand new wardrobe but didn't spend a dime! Mellicia is awesome to work with--she is fun, non-judgmental, really interesting, and a trove of information both inside and outside the fashion world! She will also work with your budget and exerts zero pressure to purchase anything. Mellicia not only changed my closet, but my life. I feel lighter since I've cleaned out my closet and every day I love getting dressed to meet the world. I highly recommend working with Mellicia and my only regret is that I didn't call her sooner!
I decided to look for a personal stylist after quickly gaining weight due to a new medication. The department store I usually shop at offers personal stylists without a fee but I was really looking for someone who could come into my home, see the way I live, see what I already own and work with me to formulate a plan based on all that info. I'm so happy I found Meliccia as she does all this and more! She made me feel instantly comfortable and picked up on my insecurities and areas of concern right away. I wanted someone to push me out of my rut of jeans and sweatshirts and she delivered ten-fold on our shopping day. Not to mention all the follow up support and check-ins she provides! The icing on top of the cake is that with the Style 360 package she photographs all your new outfits and you have easy access to them on the internet - so if you're like me and still get drawn back to jeans and sweatshirts because that's your habit, you can just whip up all the outfit pictures and pick one to try out that day. Highly, highly recommend!
I so appreciate the inside-out transformation you support your clients with Mellicia, and the happiness you bring to others by helping them wear their joy in the world!
Working with Mellicia is amazing, seriously. She helped uncover my personal style and provided me with the tools and education needed to maintain it. Before working with Mellicia I felt frumpy and dull. Shopping was not fun for me and I wanted to change how I dressed, but didn't know where to start. Mellicia helped me see elements of my personal brand that were right in front of my eyes and decoded patterns and waistlines so I could dress for my body type. I cannot say thank you enough to Mellicia and the Poplin team for helping develop my style!
Mellicia's work is phenomenal! She takes time getting to know the real you so that she uncover your innate style. I was the mom that threw in the towel after moving to Seattle where people seemingly didn't care about fashion. But that just wasn't ME! Mellicia helped give me the confidence I needed to embrace fashion and adapted my style for my very casual work and home life settings. Mellicia is direct, efficient and just gets it! LOVE her and will recommend her and this experience to all of my friends.
Collaborating with Mellicia to elevate my fashion style as a travel journalist and communication skills coach has been nothing short of miraculous - plus, so rewarding and such fun! I had gotten bored having the same "go to" outfits for every occasion and wanted to work with someone who would challenge me to stretch my fashion comfort zone both in color and style. I found that person in Mellicia. From our initial consultation to my closet overhaul, from creating my wardrobe wishlist to our photo fashion shoot with her stellar makeup and photography artists, my entire experience was a delight. Every woman deserves to spend a day with the Poplin Style team!
I had the pleasure of attending Mellicia's talk "Body Image & Confidence" at Amazon's Health Matters Wellness Conference. She is an expert and truly passionate about helping people achieve their best style. I had always struggled with having a not-so-personalized and trendy closet (who wants to look like everyone?); often buying random/trendy clothes which usually resulted in yearly wardrobe overhauls. After implementing Mellicia's strategy of shopping according the three words that best define you, I finally feel that I have the formula to great style. My closet is cohesive, stylish and reflects ME!
I highly recommend Mellicia's services, she is the absolute best!
Preparing for a new job and a new life chapter, I decided it was finally time to tackle my closet. Mellicia walked me through every step of a wardrobe update, and she made the process fun, informative, and affirming. Mellicia has a unique talent, and I feel so fortunate to call her my stylist!
I was lucky enough to be referred to Mellicia in May. With short notice, she was able to speak at Amazon's Health Matters Wellness Conference and share a few of her secrets through a presentation, "Body Image & Confidence- Defining and Creating Values".
In just an hour, she transformed the way I and the audience thought about the impact clothing has on our lives; it's ability to reflect our values, communicate without speaking, mirror our personalities and change the way we feel and think about ourselves.
Styling is just a portion of what Mellicia offers- she also holds a key that allows you to unlock and purposefully express yourself in things like scarfs, bags and lipstick.
We left with a ton of tools and a new perspective on our closets. Mellicia is a rare find. She's thorough, flexible, resourceful, and a pleasure to work with.
Thank you- From Amazon's Health Matters Team
Working with Mellicia was fantastic! I hate to shop, I didn't know what my personal style was, and my wardrobe was uninspired. Mellicia helped me see what clothes work best for my body. We shopped together and I got a whole new wardrobe (in 3 hours!). I felt like a new person after working with Mellicia!
I've worked with Mellicia of Poplin Style Direction since July of 2014 and I wouldn't work with anyone else. I'm in the middle of a career transition, and in the early stages of it when I was still trying to figure out what I was transitioning to, a friend suggested I try being a personal stylist. She figured that since I always dressed so stylishly, and that it seemed so effortless, that I would make a good stylist for others! That's how good Mellicia is.
When I decided to hire a stylist, I researched as many as I could find in the Seattle area and met with my top three choices. They all offered comparable services/packages, and even though Mellicia was a little more expensive than the other two, it was no contest. Mellicia stood out from the very first - she's warm and outgoing and immediately put me at ease. I could easily imagine spending hours with her shopping and actually enjoying it. Which is exactly what happened. My first time working with her we did the full package - closet edit, shopping trip and outfit creation, and each subsequent time we work together I invest in both the shopping trip and the outfit creation. Mellicia makes shopping fun and she gives immediate styling tips for whatever you're trying on, which means I have some good ideas of how to wear the clothes that I've just bought, even before she comes over to do the outfit creation. And I LOVE the outfit photos. I still (months and years! later) go back to those photos regularly to remind myself of the oh so many fabulous options I have in my closet. It makes clothing selection such a breeze.
If I had one criticism, it's that Mellicia is so enthusiastic and sees so many possibilities with most things I try on, that I end up buying more than I intended. She's quick to point out when something doesn't work, and has no issue when I just don't like something she's picked out, but she's so good at choosing clothes for me that I end up loving nearly everything she's selected.
One of the things I've come to appreciate the most over the years of working with her, is that she doesn't pigeon-hole her clients into any one style and she ensures your style evolves as you do. In the last couple of years, I've been undergoing a personal transformation and I wanted my style to reflect that. Mellicia immediately understood what I was going for and made that happen. Work with her. You won't regret it.
Two Christmases ago, I told my husband I wanted experiences not things. He did his research and purchased a Style Update package from Poplin Style. While appreciative, I was also mildly offended because I think I have serious style game. ;) Two years and two moves later, I uncovered the certificate and contacted Mellicia.
Despite that fact that I enjoy fashion, I had fallen into a serious rut - basically a micro-wardrobe for work and another for play, plus a closet full of clothing that needed major tending and culling. Like many working professionals with young kids, I was short on time and energy to devote to my closet and settled for "good enough."
Mellicia came to my rescue! After gaining an understanding and helping me to define my personal style, she was full of inspired ideas. She made what could have been a painful process (closet edit!) so much fun. She put together an uber wishlist which addressed every aspect of my life from loungewear to business meetings and parties. She found amazing pieces that completely worked for me, yet I would have never picked for myself. Everything she suggested fit my personal profile. Her skills as a stylist are completely matched by her sparkling personality. She is a joy to collaborate with - always but me at ease and was completely nonjudgemental.
I went from a nonbeliever to upgrading my husband's prepaid package to the Style 360. I truly believe she can work with any body type, any budget, and will stay true to your personal style. I'm so glad I dusted off that gift certificate off and gave her a call!
Mellicia Marx is an incredibly talented styling professional who I would refer to anyone and everyone. When Mellicia and I sat down initially I told her I wanted to source the majority of my clothing through 2nd hand and vintage shops because of my values around environmental and economic consciousness- I wasn't sure if this was something she would be able to accommodate. Not only was she positive and comfortable with this, but on a shopping trip to a 2nd hand shop she found that I'd never been to we scored one of the best vintage hauls ever!
Working with Mellicia gave me the opportunity to think more deeply about the woman I am and the woman I want to be and how to embody this through the clothing I wear. She's given me tools to take more risks and feel more empowered and confident in how I present myself.
My friends, clients and co-workers have all commented in how my style and appearance have been shifted and focused. It's important to note no one ever guessed I'd hired a stylist or 'changed my look' it was more like I'd enhanced something I was already doing.
All this to say, Mellicia is a pleasure to work with, she teaches you so that you are walking away with tools to sustain the changes you're making and she provides generous support along the way. Do yourself a favor and get on her waitlist!
I received a shopping trip and personal styling session with Mellicia for my high school graduation. It was a unique, thoughtful gift, and helped me define and refine my style before going into my first year of college. I highly recommend this! It was, by far, the most distinct and memorable gift I received.
This was my first personal styling experience. We first met over coffee to talk about my style, personality, and goals for the shopping trip. She learned all about me and what I wanted out of the experience. This was such fun! Next we met at the mall downtown, where she had prepared dressing rooms full of things picked out just for me. As I tried on the clothes, she helped me nail down why certain things were working for me: shape, color, cut, fit, etc., and how to find those while shopping in the future. She even helped me with jewelry, shoes, and other accessories. We talked over what stores I love, and she recommended new stores to me. She was very accommodating to my price point. As a college student on a budget, that is a blessing! She helped me distinguish which pieces were worth investing in, like a flattering pair of skinny jeans or a classic white tee.
Mellicia also designed a personal web page for me to look back on. And wow, how beautiful it is! On it she highlighted the types of things that I can look for on future shopping trips and when getting dressed in the morning. This was highly personalized, and is a long lasting benefit to a session with Mellicia.
Overall, this experience was fantastic. I highly recommend it for college students, as Mellicia does a great job transforming your closet from high school into college and beyond.
I don't even know where to begin! Mellicia is a wizard: creative, confident, professional and very flexible.
She has fantastic social skills and makes you feel great, and also revolutionizes the way you see yourself. The first free interview hour gave me huge hopes and I wasn't disappointed! We met up for a 3-hrs closet edit and it was a thrilling experience. I was left inspired and motivated to dress like there is no tomorrow. Then we spent an additional hour putting some outfits together. Mellicia is really efficient and inspiring.
If you don't know what to wear and/or feel like refreshing your wardrobe, you need to get in touch with Poplin Style!
Mellicia took my daily styling to a new level! This is my first personal styling experience and I'm so glad I met Mellicia. I learned a great deal of creative ideas from her in terms of dress yourself based on your body type, which is super helpful when I now go shopping by myself. I now know which style to avoid, which saves a lot of time and money. She is very patient and flexible with client's need. She's always a text message away to answer my questions. No matter what I choose to dress, Mellicia is full of positive energy, encouraging me to try new things and giving on-point suggestion to styling when I want to try something that's definitely not me. She is also super efficient. Within just two hours, she transformed my closet with my existing clothes with new styling photos that I can't stop browsing and refer to every day when I dress for work or fun.
The most important thing I gained from working with her is, no matter what body shape you are in, love yourself and be confident in your look, because everyone can look amazing when the styling is right.
I would highly recommend Mellicia to my friends. Working in the tech industry, where most of the time, people dress way too casual, I feel even more amazing doing a great job at work as a young profession and look amazing at work! It is definitely worth the money and time! And I can't wait to go shopping with her!
Mellicia Marx was an amazing stylist and I would recommend her to anyone. No matter what your budget is.
When I first sat down with her, she began to ask questions about who I am, and what clothes I think would represent me. I realized she gets me and the image I want to present to the world.
I have always wanted to do this and it was a pleasure to take the adventure with her. She will give you a complete course in the wardrobe that is best for your body. She looks at your old clothes and gives you ideas about new ways of mixing and matching. Then you go out with her to shop and find new clothes that she has already picked out ahead of time. I had an extra hour left over and she helped me with ideas of dresses online. I loved her energy. The newsletter are great. She is very passionate about what she does and takes meticulous care of her clients. Susan M. Carr www.theartofscreaming.com
Let me save you some time: just pick up the phone now, call Mellicia, and make an appointment. You will never look back.
I love clothes (tho I hate shopping), and I loved wearing things that were flattering, reflected my personality, and were distinctive. But after two kids and spending most of my time working at home, well, I had forgotten how much fun it was to look good. Mellicia edited my closet, helped me add a few pieces here and there to bring what still worked together, and absolutely brought back the fun in getting dressed in the morning. No more digging through things that don't work for me -- my closet is a dream these days -- and mornings are fun again.
Best of all, Mellicia is totally honest while respecting what her clients want. She helped me narrow down what I really like and am most comfortable in, then helped me tailor choices that were appropriate to the situation. Whether Iving a presentation or going to the PTA meeting, it's a huge confidence booster to know that you look, and feel, great.
Treat yourself. Best decision I've made in a long time.
When I met Mellicia I was like "OMG finally! Someone who can help me!" She made me so excited for the process. She has so much knowledge and really understands her clients. I wasn't just another client to her, she really got to know me. She tries to choose outfits for you that work best with your body type but at the same time matches your personality and style. She educated me on what type of clothes I should buy on my own. Once I had that knowledge, I was able to look at my closet and know what wasn't right for me. I felt so liberated when I cleansed my closet and couldn't wait to go on the shopping trip with Mellicia.
Shopping was so fun! I was somewhat anxious and nervous about the process initially but quickly started feeling comfortable. Mellicia had all these clothes laid out for me in the fitting room and it was so exciting! I could tell that she put a lot of thought and time into choosing each piece for me. I appreciated that Mellicia didn't try to put me in clothes that were too over the top or that didn't represent me. She found items that were very me but took it to the next level. I couldn't believe how good I looked! I was a little nervous about purchasing so much clothing at once but it was totally worth it!
It was time to create outfits from the clothes already in my closet and my new purchases! It was so exciting! Mellicia is so talented and worked her magic. She created these outfits so naturally, it was like art! I am so happy with my outfits and have been wearing them everywhere. I'm able to create outfits on my own now! She's helped me feel more comfortable in my own skin. I'm so happy that I went with Poplin Style! Mellicia is amazing and so kind! She even helped me with a personal issue. She can help you find a hair stylist, makeup artist, esthetician, and more if you need them. I highly recommend hiring Mellicia, you will not regret it!
I heart Poplin Style Direction. I consider myself artistic, creative, expressive -- AND I HATE SHOPPING AND TRENDS -- but love to look sophisticated. After working at a geeky tech company for over a decade, I had gotten to a place where I was a adrift in what it was that I wanted to express each day when I got dressed. I was intimidated to have a stranger come into my closet but the way Mellicia handled the entire process was so gentle, thoughtful, compassionate, AND FIRM. You will get rid of the things that are not serving you, rest assured. (And you will feel really good about it because they end up going somewhere where they can be useful in a second life!) And you will gain a better understanding of your body type and some things to think about to dress it well. Wait no longer - this was a worthwhile treat and I wish I'd invested in it earlier. I can't even imagine the different clothing choices I would have made if I had understood some of the principles Mellicia shared with me earlier in my life!
My life is now divided into "Before Mellicia" and "After Mellicia". In the Before Mellicia times, I'd spent eons idling in front of my closet, surveying the wasteland of anything that could be construed as an outfit. Sure I had clothes, but nothing that resembled style. After Mellicia, going into my closet is a much more "hell yeah!" kind of experience. She showed me how to put outfits together, how to work with my body type, and how to incorporate statement pieces that made my style mine (wow, I actually have one now!). Through Mellicia's steady guidance, she helped uncover my individual style and how to use what I already had as well as adding in some pieces that I never knew I needed (Me: oh I'm not a leather jacket kind of gal. Wait, I AM! Who knew? Oh right, Mellicia did). Besides being a delightful person to work with, Mellicia provided tactical, actionable advice that I could take away and dress myself like a pro on my own.
I have never had the greatest fashion sense and grew up wearing primarily hand-me-downs. Being teased about my cloths created some deep seeded fashion trauma. As I have gotten older, shopping has just become more overwhelming trying to figure out what flatters my body, what is my style, where are the best deals, how to mix and match to get the most out of what I buy etc. I've had my sister and friends try to help, but I really needed someone to be there with me the whole way. I tried stich fix but didn't love what was sent, and I still needed to go out and buy various pieces to complete the outfits.
And then came Mellicia. I was anxious at first because I felt like I was a helpless case, but she made me feel empowered straight from the first day. She is very organized and takes care of all the details so it is a stress free process. When she came to my house she was respectful as we went through my cloths and didn't make me feel embarrassed at some of the unfashionable things that we took out for the Good Will bags. When we went shopping together it was the most amazing shopping day of my life. Everything was already pulled, everything fit, or if it didn't it felt like it was about the clothes and not my body, and Mellicia was there reassuring me and encouraging me along the way.
Mellicia's ability to see the full vision and how it will all come together is priceless and she is with you all the way to the end, making sure you are fully confident and comfortable in your new look. If you are even remotely thinking about using a stylist, I encourage you to just call and schedule a consult. I guarantee you you won't regret it.
I can't wait to use her again this Summer for my next seasons clothes!
Mellicia is the first person who comes to mind when female friends or client partners ask me, "Do you do style work for ladies, too?" My answer, "No, but I know a fantastic lady who does." I feel good referring people to Mellicia and Poplin Style not only because of her knowledge and skills as a stylist (both incredible), but also because, like me, she believes that clothing is a means to an end, not the end itself. She gets that wardrobe and image are key elements for how other people see us, and for how we see ourselves, which can affect our confidence and well-being. Her positivity, sensitivity, and warmth make her the perfect guide for helping people navigate their own style with courage and authenticity. -Aldan, TurnStyle Sartorial
It was super cliche, but I was hesitating to call Mellicia even after a few friends worked with her because I thought I should use it as a reward for losing a few pounds. I finally decided to call her anyway because I was starting a new job and wanted to feel great. I am SO GLAD I didn't wait!
Mellicia completely understood and worked with me on investment pieces that probably wouldn't change much (tops, coats, shoes, jewelry) and helped me find great bottoms that were reasonable in the hopes I wouldn't need them for long. I've never felt particularly stylish (especially consistently), but since I've finished the sessions I feel like I can make my own outfits with confidence that have that "put-together" feel. She never made me feel silly, bad, or rolled her eyes at me if I said something cliche or was scared to try a new trend, but rather understood me wholly and gave me the confidence I needed to try new things.
I can't wait to work with her again, but in the meantime I am LOVING her newsletter which is at the perfect frequency and the perfect amount of information and super helpful in my style needs to hold me over until next time we work together!
Do not hesitate, you need Mellicia in your life today!
It's difficult to pick one word to describe Mellicia but if I had to, it would be AMAZING! She is not only fantastic at what she does but is a wonderful and generous person. She's passionate about fashion with a great sense of personal style and oodles of energy!
I was very conscious of my body after having had a baby two years ago and never getting back to my pre-pregnancy size. So I was stuck in a rut of mostly jeans and baggy tops. That's when my husband gifted me a styling package with Poplin which got me both excited and intrigued. It was an absolute pleasure working with Mellicia; from our first meeting through the closet edit to the wish lists and outfits. She helped me discover not only new brands and styles but also encouraged me to expand my wardrobe in a way that made feel confident and comfortable. Her insights on what styles and looks complement my body type were invaluable. I continue to reference them when dressing up or shopping for new outfits. The results definitely exceeded my expectations and a nice bonus was the numerous compliments I received from family, friends and colleagues!
It was an absolute treat to get a maternity wish list from Mellicia when I was expecting again - comfortable yet stylish and effortless! I'm so thankful to my husband for helping me discover Poplin and the lifelong access to Mellicia. Hooray!
I was stuck in a serious style rut, so I took a chance and called Mellicia. Best thing I ever did for myself! Mellicia is a warm and wonderful person who is highly skilled at reading people and honing in on the things that will get you where you want to be, style-wise.
First came the closet edit, where Mellicia gently encouraged me to let go of the too-small, the ill-fitting, and the just plain ill-advised. As another reviewer mentions, it's liberating to be able to start with a clean slate. Then, we went shopping, which was, of course, a blast. Last, Mellicia came over and created a reference of outfits based on new and old pieces, which makes getting dressed in the morning drop-dead easy.
Bottom line: You only live once, you might as well look good! Can't go wrong with Ms. Marx.
If you are like me your morning ritual is always the same. I would get up and spend 30 minutes staring at the clothes in my closet. Despite having a closet full of clothes (some with tags) I did not feel confident in my ability to put it all together. After just one meeting with Mellicia I knew I was in good hands. She took the time to understand who I was and exactly what I was looking for in regards to style. Mellicia takes every aspect in your life into consideration. She helped me find the style that helps me feel confident but also fits into my crazy lifestyle. I cannot say enough about what she has done for me and how much I look forward to working with her in the future. Call her...your closet will THANK YOU!!
If you are reading this review, and considering contacting Mellicia, stop hesitating! She is amazing and the process is worth every penny. She spends the time to get to know you and learn about who you are as a person and what your style goals are. I wanted to step up my game at work, and she helped me find new amazing pieces but also make outfits out of clothes I already had. We all have that one outfit we just love, and feel super confident in...but imagine if all your clothes were like that. This is how Mellicia helped me transform my attitude and outlook about clothes. If you feel good about how you look and what you're wearing, the day seems much easier to conquer. I adore Mellicia and have loved working with her and highly recommend her to anyone needing a boost!
Mellicia Marx is a tremendous investment. Buying her "Style 360 Package" is some of the best money I have spent on myself. From the actual dollar and cents perspective, there is no doubt I am saving future dollars by not continuing to buy outfits that "almost" work.
I hired Mellicia at a time I was going through a career transition as well as a personal transition (letting my hair go to its natural color). Both events were exciting but also daunting. Mellicia was not only helpful and encouraging of my new ventures but tremendous in looking forward to what I would need stylistically.
With her help, I confidently know how to dress my figure and what pieces I should keep as my core wardrobe and what pieces on which to "take a chance". Before I had a rough idea but still felt I was too often just missing a great look.
I love my new clothes, feel alive with confidence and am grateful for all of Mellicia's styling knowledge entering into this next life phase. The compliments I receive from my husband, daughter and friends confirm the excellent service she provides.
Boy, has my life changed after working with Mellicia! After many years of the frumpy mom look, it was really time for a change! Now I feel like I've found my identity again. Even though all that's changed is I've got some nice new outfits in the closet and I have a better understanding of the kind of clothes I should be wearing, I feel like the change represents so much more. I've found the real me again! Mellicia also helped me to venture beyond my comfort to try out new and exciting looks that I never would have thought would work so well. This was definitely worth the investment!
I hesitated contacting Mellicia for a long time - I thought that asking someone to help me with my style problems was too much of a luxury and I should just "handle it" myself. Then one day I was particularly tired of wearing the same button-down shirt and blazer combo day after day, and I just decided to investment in myself. So much of your career success depends upon how you present yourself! That was 6 months ago and it was easily one of the best investments I've ever made!
Mellicia's attention to detail, the way she listens to what I want and need is unparalleled. In particular, the Closet Edit was one of the most freeing exercises I've ever experienced. After that - the rest of the package just fell into place.
Mellicia has such a great sense of style - I completely trust her opinion and rely on her to choose items that work best for my style, my life, and my budget.
Thank you, Mellicia!!
Working with Mellicia and Poplin Style Direction gave me confidence to walk into any room. I often talk myself out of purchases in the store, second guessing my choices and when I worked with Mellicia she gave me the knowledge of how to identify the right styles and colors by teaching me about my body type and what works. Mellicia's professionalism is warm and nonjudgemental, this made for a productive experience. She is punctual, exciting, and creative. She worked with my budget and stay committed to all appointments. One of the most exciting tools I have now is to plan what I wear by opening up my phone and viewing the outfits she created from my new wardrobe. I highly recommend Mellicia's styling services!
Mellicia is amazing & working with her was a delight. She made shopping fun for someone who hates it. Her keen attention to style, personality and clothes has transformed my closet into a treasure chest of goodies. I honestly now can't wait to find an occasion to dress up, or wear exciting, bold & fun color options. I still love my workout clothes but now they are used primarily for sports activities.
Mellicia, Thank you!
I hadn't given a second thought to my wardrobe since my first child was born eight years ago, and I desperately needed an update. One painless closet edit, a fun shopping trip (I never use "fun" and "shopping" together in a sentence) and a styling session, and voila! I have a closet full of outfits that reflect who I am and fit well too. Thank you for making getting dressed fun again!
I was worried I would be beautifully styled as someone else, but Melicia took the time to know me, my life, what I like and how I want to express myself. She does her research, is an expert stylist, has a passion for what she does, is practical and fun to be around. It was a delight to go through this very personal experience with her. I have moved from being frozen on the spot in my closet every morning, to getting ready in a jiffy and feeling great! I get at least one comment per day about my clothes. My personal favorite is 'you look so put together'.
A year ago my husband got me the wonderful gift of Mellicia's services for my birthday. Now a revamped wardrobe and a couple wishlists later, I'm still so happy about the direction she has given me! I was in a serious rut with my clothes. Things were going well with my career and other things, but my clothes did not reflect that at all. Mellicia put me at ease right away. She is exactly the right person for this kind of profession. She makes you feel like you are not your blah wardrobe, you are an amazing person and she is there to help you get there. The clothes she selected were right on with what I was hoping and made me feel great. Mellicia is very responsive and I'm so impressed with how she remembers my preferences so when I ask for a new wishlist, I don't have to mention my price range or anything else I've told her along those lines. She makes getting dressed in the morning so much fun. That's what I was not having before with my wardrobe - fun. I can't say enough good things about her. She even sent me a card for my birthday :) Thank you Mellicia!
This is long overdue, but in no way reflects my admiration for this woman and her style skills. In a few words: Mellicia kills it!
I chose the closet edit as that was my biggest hurdle - staring at a closet jam packed with clothes and still choosing the same five outfits morning after morning - Needless to say I felt stuck and uninspired.
Enter Mellicia Marx...
Mellicia helped me sort through that cluttered closet and get rid of things I had held on to for too many years. She asked smart questions to really help me understand why I was holding onto certain items and figure out the missing "links" from my wardrobe that would make an even bigger impact. She taught me how to "see" my old clothes in a new light and create outfits from pieces that I never thought of putting together before.
Now, I have a streamlined closet full of clothes that I want to wear, make me feel fabulous and new again!
Thank you, Mellicia for all that you do!
As I write this, I'm standing in front of a gorgeous, fun wardrobe Mellicia helped me put together. She's so wonderful to work with! After years of feeling like I had nothing to wear and **hating** shopping, it's such a cool feeling to look forward to picking out clothes. Mellicia knows how to help you look the way you want to -- without looking like you're trying too hard. If that's not magic, I don't know what is. Plus she's helping me wear trends in a way that I still feel like me. Only cooler. I LOVED the closet edit. Mellicia helped me get rid of clothes I'd hung on to forever for no reason other than I thought I should....And did I mention she's all about giving back? Making the world more stylish -- and more beautiful. Give this woman a call!
After dropping hints over the past few months, my husband surprised me with a Poplin Style package. And it has been life-changing. I had grown out of touch with my style and didn't understand what I should be wearing to truly flatter my body. And I have always wanted to be more adventurous with my clothing, but way too scared to do anything about it.
Well, enter Mellicia to do what she does best. We sat down together so she could find out more about me, my style history and what it was that I was looking for. One thing that anyone will notice right off the bat when they meet Mellicia is how personable she is. It's like talking to a best friend. She makes you feel heard and most importantly, comfortable. Even after that initial consultation, I left with a ton of knowledge about my body type and the kinds of pieces that look best on me.
Then came the closet edit. It was AMAZING. With Mellicia's help, we pulled out the pieces that just didn't work for me and I finally had the courage to let go. (You know those pieces...the ones you debate about constantly....do I donate it? Nah...I'll wear it at some point. But you never do.) Everything left in my closet was pieces that I would actually wear. Yes!! Money has been tight and Mellicia was very sensitive to that, so we both agreed upon a few things I should purchase over the next couple months, when budget allowed. And the best thing is that I could find all of these things at very affordable stores per her recommendations!
And finally, the day I had been looking forward to was finally here....Outfit Creation. She created a TON of outfits using a mix of my older clothes with the new pieces I had purchased. She gave me so many options....things I never would have thought of too! It's an amazing feeling to wake up every morning, not stressing about what I'm going to wear. I just pull out my phone and look through the pictures of the outfits to see what I feel like wearing today. Pretty dreamy.
I can't speak highly enough of Mellicia. After working with her, you will feel like a new person. And you won't ever want her to leave because 1) she's the best there is and 2) she's an incredible person. We all need a little Mellicia in our lives.
Just can't say enough good stuff about Mellicia Marx / Poplin Style Direction!
Her services came to me as a Mother's Day gift from my daughter, who had her 'style direction' changed by Mellicia. Mine was a bit different than my daughter's, as I had recently lost over 80 lbs and had been wearing a size 18+ for over 20 years. I had so many years of no real style and very limited choices, I just wore the few things that fit me over and over again. Having a slimmer body with new, smaller clothes to wear was pretty exciting for me--but I was having trouble making it all work. Plus I had some extra loose skin issues that I was not overly happy with.
Enter Mellicia and her mad style skills. She delved into the 'real me' and found out my likes/dislikes and wishes. She sent my Uber Wishlist and I shopped until 2 am. I had a roadmap! I had a list! I had some easy rules to follow that would keep me in style but my comfort zone, plus a few items that were so different from what I would have ever chosen for myself, but LOVED as soon as I wore them. She put much thought and effort into every item on the list. The cool thing is she asked me what I was thinking of spending on this new wardrobe, and I had no clue - but she wasn't trying to be pushy or anything - just wanted to know where she should look within my comfort. Was I comfortable with Nordstrom? Old Navy? The Limited? Plus more. Also, she said there's no pressure to purchase all of the choices, but to choose the ones I liked.
After a while, she came over for Outfit Creation. AMAZING. She created so many outfits for me - using my new purchases and items I had already. I have absolutely no stress thinking about "what to wear" in the morning... or for a party...it's all put together for me in a series of pictures with coordinating shoes/purse/jewelry! Friends and family have noticed and approve! Hubby loves my new look. I'm hooked - feel like I have a whole new life and it feels wonderful. Love what you do, Mellicia!
Here's the short version: Mellicia is the best at what she does. PERIOD. Her category is "Personal Shopping Services," but she offers her clients so very much more!
Mellicia comes into your life via your closet, but after spending mere minutes with her, you quickly realize that she's there to help you with so much more than clothes! It goes without saying that she has totally transformed my wardrobe and my shopping habits (no more impulse buys!), and has made getting dressed a joy for the first time in years. However, she has also talked me through a career transition and advised me on philanthropic activities (ask her about YouthCare!), all while helping with the emotions/body image issues that arise when you're talking about clothes. It's been said by many others, but it bears repeating: Mellicia Marx changes lives.
Like many people, I was in transition when I found Mellicia, and was tired of fighting with my clothes. My clothes technically "fit" after having my son, but my body and my life had changed, so it was time for my clothes to change too. I decided to meet with Mellicia on the advice of my friend Bridgette, who had a wonderful experience with her. I was drawn to Mellicia for a few reasons:
1) She takes time to get to know you and your style! I really feel like Mellicia helped me to embrace my natural style and preferences rather than putting me in a style "box." Once she learns your preferences, desires, and needs, she'll be there for you on an ongoing basis to answer questions, and you can sign up for seasonal style updates to keep you current!
2) She's a mom too! She has a young son, so she totally understands body changes around childrearing and the practical side of choosing clothes for living with kids.
3) She hasn't always been in the fashion industry! While she's been styling for family and friends for much of her life, it hasn't always been her profession. She has worked for government, nonprofits, and in the private sector, so she has a really good understanding of workplaces and how to dress for the differing types.
4) It's not all about buying new stuff! I knew Mellicia was special when getting dressed became infinitely easier before I'd bought a single new item. Mellicia helps you figure out what works for you and helps you clear out the stuff that doesn't, while giving you new ideas for how to wear things you already own.
5 She's not attached to a single retailer! Unlike many personal shoppers, she's independent, so she can recommend clothes that actually work best for you, not just those offered by a specific retailer. She also has great relationships with local boutiques, so she's certain to help you discover new, interesting, unique shops with superb service!
6) She offers a variety of services, and can customize packages to suit your needs! I needed some serious assistance with the closet edit, but wasn't sure I wanted to invest as much time in shopping, so Mellicia front-loaded our work together, and it was perfect for me. If you've already done your closet editing, good for you! You can spend more time shopping and putting outfits together.
7) She gives back! She has a close relationship with YouthCare, where she offers styling sessions to graduates of the Barista Training Program to help them prepare for job interviews. I was thrilled to know that the clothes that were no longer working for me would have another life with people who truly needed them.
If you've gotten this far, and you're still not sure, here are some more reasons Mellicia may be right for you:
1) You're not feeling comfortable in your clothes. As Mellicia says, "It's not you, it's the clothes."
2) You' re in transition (new job, new baby, weight loss, etc) and your wardrobe hasn't caught up with you.
3) Getting dressed used to be fun, but it's now a chore.
4) You have a closet full of clothes but feel the proverbial "I have nothing to wear."
5) You have had a less-than-positive experience with personal shoppers attached to retailers in the past. Perhaps you felt pressured to buy clothes because the personal shopping services were "free" and/or you felt like the shopper didn't understand you, your job, and/or your lifestyle.
6) You' re tired of shopping haphazardly and without any real idea of what actually works for you. You might randomly hit sales/flash sale sites/fast fashion retailers and/or rush to track something down for an event, and leave feeling like you didn't really get what you came in for and aren't sure it was worth it.
Congratulations on making it all the way through! If you're still reading and not sure, just reach out and email or call Mellicia. The first consultation is free, but I'm fairly certain you'll soon be hooked too.
YouthCare is so grateful for Poplin Style's support for homeless youth in our community. We at YouthCare have worked closely with Mellica Marx and the Poplin team for over a year, as they have held regular career styling sessions for graduates of YouthCare's Barista Training and Education Program (BTEP). We are a community-based organization serving homeless and at-risk youth, and our BTEP program is an 8-week training program in food and customer service, operated in partnership with FareStart.
The Poplin team holds 2-3 hour sessions that start with a presentation explaining what appropriate clothing in the workplace looks like. The sessions also offer activities to help youth find their personal professional style, and reiterate that you don't have to spend a great deal of money to look amazing.
Mellicia and the Poplin team do an amazing job of not only teaching youth about appropriate work and interview attire, but also empowering them and building up their confidence by helping them to look and feel great. They provide our youth with individualized attention and advice, and are conscientious and respectful of their personal boundaries. They are wonderful at taking into account their unique needs, and offer practical advice and suggestions in light of the fact that homeless youth need multi-functional, comfortable attire.
YouthCare has immense respect for Poplin Style Direction, and is so appreciative of the generous, effective sessions that Poplin holds for our young people.
So there's a common thread in these reviews, and I'll echo it too. I feel like me again, at last! And this wouldn't have been possible without Mellicia's enthusiastic and caring approach.
Her questions were gentle but probing, and she was so supportive as I was trying to put my feelings into words. She encouraged me to try new things, and as I started to have confidence in my choices and in my look, she was my cheerleader and counselor.
I have been a lazy shopper all my life, happily buying random things just because I was thrilled they fit. Mellicia's uber wishlist was like a candy store for me - I bought from it, but I was also inspired by it to go different directions than I'd done before. In fact, I'm wearing things right now I never would have had the confidence to wear before. I'm owning my style words - edgy, unexpected, hard and soft - all with credit to Mellicia.
I am hooked. I've already told my family that this is the gift of my future, and I expect to be one of Mellicia's clients for a long, long time.
If you don't want to read the entire review, here's the bottom line: Mellicia understands fashion and people in a way that makes her the ideal personal stylist!
For years, I'd felt like my clothes were boring and frumpy. For my birthday in 2013, my husband gave me the services of a personal stylist. I picked Mellicia and Poplin Style based on the services that she offered--it seemed like I'd get the biggest bang for my buck. Having never met her before, I was delightfully surprised to find that I also enjoyed every minute I spent with her. She took a genuine interest in getting to know me and my needs, and I had so much fun shopping with her.
I was nervous before our initial meeting, but Mellicia put me at ease right away. I could have never put my "style" into words, but she asked thoughtful, easy questions to help her understand my personality. Before our shopping trip, she created an online plan for me, which I still use a year later. The plan helps me figure out which cuts, styles and colors work best for me. It's like having Mellicia on your phone!
Our shopping trip was terrific. She encouraged me to try new things, and showed me how to pick out combinations that work for me. She got me to wear clothes that I NEVER would have tried before. I left that trip with more than clothes; I left excited and confident about my new look.
It has been almost a year since I first worked with Mellicia, and it's the gift that keeps on giving. I have continued to buy new, interesting clothes, and I feel excited about getting dressed in the morning. Mellicia holds periodic client events, which offer additional opportunities to shop with her. A personal stylist may feel like an indulgence, but feeling good about yourself is so fundamental that it's worth the investment.
Mellicia is a gem! As a self-employed artist who works alone in a home office, I don't often think about how I'm dressed. I hired Poplin Style Direction because I had to travel overseas and work live in front of a prestigious audience. Mellicia was sensitive to the short notice and curated a selection of clothes that really fit both who I am and what I want to project. Mellicia really listened. She clearly loves this work and is so good at it. She's kind and has a sense of humor. She made me feel good about myself, my figure, and the entire process.
I looked and felt great for the event, and I've worn many of the pieces since then. I also think differently now when I put outfits together, and I receive compliments much more often! Everyone needs a consultation with Mellicia. Poplin Style Direction has so many options, it's hard to choose. I went with the Uber Wishlist, but I'm sure I'll be back for more. Thanks Mellicia!
I needed this at so many levels.
When I started working with Mellicia I was getting ready to start a new job and I had a 18 month old. All my clothes were out of date and/or didn't fit right.
The service was excellent, I loved the flexibility of the service, even though I ended up doing everything. I am interesting in looking good, but never had the understanding on how to dress best for my body type, nor what to look for in clothes.
I feel so much better about how I dress now. The clothes go from playing on the floor with my kid, to working at the office.
Finally! I feel like *ME* again - but a better, more confident version. I had been searching to rediscover my style since the birth of my daughter three years ago, but was struggling big time. I'd sought the help of stylists in the past (I even work for a large retailer with stylists on staff) but just kept feeling like I was being put into a "working mom" bucket I wasn't feeling whatsoever.
Where Mellicia stood out from the pack was her genuine interest and dedication to get to know ME - my interests, my passions, what made me tick, and how I aspired to feel and and present myself to the world. She spent a good hour with me, just asking me questions - it felt like getting to know a new good friend! I was beyond impressed that just from that one conversation she picked up so much. I had no idea how she was going to blend "Funky, Feminine with an Edge, Urban Boho, Polished" but she totally nailed my style.
Before she readied my list of perfect clothes, :) ... she gave me some SUPER helpful tips that I was able to use immediately with my own tired old clothes and I couldn't believe what happened - I was so excited I texted her about it. After feeling like I received zero compliments for the half-decade prior in one day on my lunch hour I received THREE compliments from total strangers about my outfit. If I could feel this good from what I already had, what was my uber wish list going to look like?
WELL - from the minute I opened up my list I was drooling over every selection she made for me. It screamed "KATE" from the rooftops and I had to order just about everything on it that day.
I feel amazing. I get compliments every day. My husband says I've been looking "sassy" lately and it reminds me of when we first met. Up until now I was trying to deny the "working mom" look but I actually feel more like one! A fabulous one who exudes confidence, makes it all happen in the office, and then comes home to whip up an amazing dinner for her family.
Who knew some new clothes and some helpful tips could change how I feel about myself so much? Mellicia is top-notch. She's worth every penny, and then some. I'm a changed woman!
My dear husband gifted me Mellicia's services after I had my first child and was preparing for my return to work. He was savvy enough to catch on to my complaints about a wardrobe of tight, ill-fitting pants, how I always felt a little sloppy, and how the thought of going to the mall and actually shopping made me cringe. When he told me about the gift I thought- wow, that's pretty indulgent...a personal stylist for, ME? But honestly, it totally exceeded my expectations.
The reasons I love Poplin:
1) Mellicia is totally pleasant and personable and never made me feel pressured or intimidated by style. It was always about what worked for me, my life, and MY style. Oh, and she worked within the confines of my budget, too.
2) She made me an uber-wish list of about 30-ish items (basically, online shopped for me) and once the packages started arriving they were nearly all winners. It was kinda scary how well she nailed it. She even considered my needs to pump at work so her recommendations allowed for easy access to do that. I hadn't even thought of that!
3) I definitely have a better sense of what works on my body- petite & pear (with bonus new-mom belly). I see myself referencing my personal Poplin page next time I'm shopping- it outlines what looks best on my body-type. This is a really handy resource. Also, everyone thought I lost weight! Huh?
4) The OUTFITS! Mellicia actually holes herself up in your closet and puts together outfits from your wardrobe in new and amazing ways. She takes photos and uploads them to your page. I cannot tell you how much my sleep-deprived mommy brain has benefited from this. No kidding, this whole last week I've decided what to wear using these photos, rushed to get ready in 10-15 mins, and still get compliments from my office peeps! Love love love.
5) An investment? My sister came up with this one but its true! Now that I have a better idea of what looks good on me I'm going to be more selective when making future purchases. No more tags sitting on unworn clothes or donating nearly new items because I now realize they don't work.
I have never thought this much about clothes in my life. But it IS important for me to look good, feel professional, and be comfortable. And now I do! I really loved this service, very highly recommended!
I finally decided it was time for a fresh outlook on my wardrobe and happened upon a Facebook ad for Poplin. I thought I would take a chance and am so glad I did!! Although I live thousands of miles away from Seattle, Mellicia did an amazing job on our Skype conversations hearing out my laundry list of fashion likes and dislikes and then ensuring that my Uber Wishlist reflected me and where I wanted to take my new look. Not only did she provide me with some ideas for beautiful articles of clothing to add to my closet, but she also helped me gain more confidence in mixing and matching new and old pieces to create a fresh new look. I highly recommend Poplin's services, especially to those who live outside of WA!
Can I just say that I'm totally obsessed with Mellicia? Seriously. This woman has not only taught me how to dress in a way that flatters my shape, but she has also changed the way I feel about myself, and (in an unexpected twist) changed the way my husband feels about me too. Ha ha...hello, leather pants! More on that later.
When I initially met with Mellicia, I recall telling her how uncomfortable I felt in all my clothes after having my 2nd baby. I was hoping she could simply help me find clothes that would hide my mid section and then we'd call it a day. But when we met a second time to go over my style plan and look at what I had in my closet, I realized she had SO much more to offer. I consider myself to be fairly fashion savvy, but I was surprised at how much I learned from her that day! She explained that I am a tall rectangle shape and taught me all the ways to accentuate my waist. My favorite tidbit: I can try wearing jackets with details at the wrists (i.e. leather cuffs, zippers, etc), so when my hands are down at my sides it draws attention to my waist. Uh yeah, I NEVER would have thought of that, but I ended up buying that type of jacket, and those little details made all the difference on me!
Fast forward a few weeks, and Mellicia emailed me the link to the uber wishlist she created for me. I opened it up and before I even scrolled down to the 4th or 5th item, I remember having this thought: "Oh...my...god. I am OBSESSED." She totally and completely got me. I felt giddy looking at my list. :-) And what I thought was especially cool is that she gave very detailed advice on what other items to pair it with on my list, as well ideas for pairing it with items already in my closet.
I purchased almost every single thing off of my list, including a pair of faux leather skinny pants, which is very far outside of my normal comfort zone. But in the spirit of trying new things, I figured I would give them a chance. Well let me tell you, when I came downstairs wearing the pants to ask my husband if they were "too much", I got quite a reaction! His jaw dropped and he said, "Wow...that's one hell of a service! Worth every penny!" He REALLY liked the pants. And this is coming from a guy who never really says anything about what I'm wearing. I also noticed in the following weeks that he would randomly compliment me on whatever I was wearing and tell me I look nice. Such an unexpected, but welcome effect on my marriage! :-)
Finally, Mellicia came over and put together several outfits made up of my new pieces (mixed in with some old pieces), photographed them, and put them up on my personal page for me. This is awesome because when I get up in the morning, all I have to do is swipe through a few photos, pick the outfit I want to wear and pull those items out of my closet. Done. No more sitting and staring at my closet while I try to figure out what to wear. This is especially helpful when I'm distracted and stressing about getting the kids ready and out the door. It's one less thing to worry about!
In summary, I would (and do) recommend anyone and everyone to Mellicia. I've already purchased her services as a gift for my mom and when anyone compliments what I'm wearing (which people do a lot more of now!), I usually go on and on about how amazing Mellicia is and suggest that they use her as well. :-) I went in to this whole thing expecting her to help me hide my mommy tummy, but she ended up teaching me how to actually accentuate what I initially thought was my biggest flaw. She totally changed the way I feel about myself! All my new clothes make me feel GREAT and as much as I'd like to think that I simply look hot in my leather pants, it's more likely that my new found confidence is what has had such a positive effect on my marriage.
Work with Mellicia. You need her in your life. :-)
Mellicia is, in a word, amazing!! I'd worked with other stylists in the past and never felt that they really "got" my style. After just a couple short (and fun!) meetings with Mellicia, she nailed it. Part of my challenge is that I can't stand shopping. I'm all about the online, and Mellicia makes it easy ... she sends me lists of items she's found for me online, and all I have to do is click and buy! I've been working with her for several months and she never ceases to wow me with the items she recommends.
A couple of my friends have worked with Mellicia as well, and it's been so fun to see her work her magic on them! We all have completely different styles, and she's dressed us all to perfection. She has an incredible knack for quickly getting a read on peoples' personal style and making them feel great.
I would highly recommend Mellicia and Poplin Style Direction to anyone. She is FAB!!
It's like What Not to Wear, but she's really, really kind. I witnessed a friend's wardrobe edit session and was so impressed. So if you're ever fantasized about being on that show but dread the wrath of Stacy and Clinton, give Mellicia a call. She'll make you feel great about you, your taste, and your sense of fashion.
As a mother of a two-year-old, I feel like my body has had some ups and downs lately, both style-wise and weight-wise. I needed help pulling myself together to begin a new career, and Mellicia did just that, and then some. I opted for the shopping + outfits package, and already feel my confidence and esteem have been boosted. We got tons of what I like to think of as "workhorse pieces" from the Gap mostly, to round out my other quirky pieces I was having trouble creating stylish outfits with. Then she takes photos of outfits she creates from your wardrobe (including shoes and bags!) so you don't even have to think in the morning! Thank you Mellicia!! Highly recommended!!
Before I worked with Mellicia, I was in a rut clothing-wise. I wasn't excited about any of my clothes and did not feel confident in putting outfits together. I decided to start with the closet edit since I knew needed to do something, but didn't have the budget for a whole shopping expedition (if I did, that is next thing I would do!). The closet edit included an initial consultation and a personalized style plan that she created based on our conversation. It contains fit tips, best colors and lots of other great info just for me based on my body type and coloring, and it's online so I can refer to it whenever I want to (and have many times since!). It's been very helpful. In our initial meeting, Mellicia asked me lots of detailed questions, took notes and helped me clarify for myself what my own style is. She doesn't force trends or another person's style.
Then we did the closet edit, which was immensely helpful. I was a bit nervous about doing this, since I already wasn't feeling good about what was in my closet, but she made me feel comfortable about the whole process with her lighthearted presence and I ended up feeling more confident because it turned out there were lots of good things in there already. We went through each piece and she told me what works and why, and what doesn't and why. There were some things in there that I suspected didn't work for me, but was having trouble figuring out the reason they weren't right. Now that I know, I won't make those mistakes in future purchases!
She also gave me some great ideas on combinations I'd never thought of. Even though we weeded out many items, I feel like I have MORE options now even though I didn't add anything new. She also helped me reorganize my closet in a way that is more beautiful to look at and makes me more excited when I'm picking out what to wear. I am excited to work with her again in the future, and until that day, I am feeling much more confident and happy with my current wardrobe.
Mellicia is a style genius. First she worked with me to edit my closet so I could "shop" it. Out went everything that didn't fit, flatter or ever get worn. She organized and left me with a closet full of fun items I'd forgotten about or hadn't considered wearing together. The next morning (and every one since), I shopped my own closet and loved my outfit! After that, we went on a shopping visit at which I found multiple items that I now wear relentlessly. She's taught me what looks good and what's less flattering for my body type. I'm looking forward to our next visit where I get my very own "look book." Everyone could use a little Mellicia in their life!
Before Mellicia, I would see photos of myself and ask "Who's that?" and not in a good way. I didn't know it, but I was dressing myself all wrong. Mellicia showed me HOW to wear clothes not just what to wear. And she worked with me to uncover the types of clothes that I wanted to be seen in. She showed me how to bring out my best features with color and patterns. She showed me what cuts worked best and why. She even showed me a photo of myself in an outfit we crafted together, and I thought, "Wow!" I'd highly recommend her!
Mellicia styled me like the pro she is! She helped clean out my closet, took me shopping, gave me tips on what colors and styles would look best, and helped me put together outfits! I feel more confident at work, out with friends, and even going to the grocery because of Mellicia's guidance and great advice.