In Uniform: Melo and Co's Minimalist Style Sensibility

Rip & Tan: How do you define personal style? 

Melo and Co: Minimal, casual, and classic. The older I’ve gotten, the more I’ve gravitated toward simple pieces that are more timeless. I believe in wearing pieces that are quality, and make you feel good in what you’re wearing—comfort is so important!

Rip & Tan: Can you sum up your everyday uniform in 3 or so words? 

Melo and Co: Simple, casual, and comfortable.

Rip & Tan: As someone who’s mastered the art of the neutral—what tips do you have for keeping neutral, even monochrome, outfits interesting?

Melo and Co: Mostly shapes and textures. I’m a big fan of using proportion to keep all neutral outfits from being boring. Oversized knits paired with jeans or trousers make a statement and keep it interesting, and comfortable of course. I like to pair linen with knits, and structured trousers with oversized tops for a combination that feels effortless but put together.

Rip & Tan: Walk us through your process of getting dressed. What comes first? 

Melo and Co: Normally what I’m wearing is weather and mood dependent. I like to follow my intuition when it comes to getting dressed—what I feel. If I feel like dressing up in trousers and a blazer for school drop-off, I will. If I feel like wearing sweatpants, I just go with it.

A huge factor is also what’s on the agenda for the day. Because I’m a single mom of two busy boys, being practical about what I wear is key. I usually pick one piece that I feel like wearing that day and build from there. If I’m working from home I’ll often opt for knit sets that go from school drop off to home office easily, and if I’m running errands I may opt for jeans or trousers with a tee or tank, and then knit or shirt layered over, then a jacket or coat over if it’s cold.

Rip & Tan: What does timelessness mean to you? Any tips for a timeless fall wardrobe?

Melo and Co: To me, timeless means pieces that aren’t trendy and won’t feel dated in a few years or seasons. Quality basics will keep for years and I will never get tired of them. I avoid anything that doesn’t feel classic these days and instead opt for crewnecks, classic poplin shirts, quality knits, well-cut trousers, and straight-cut jeans. My tip for a timeless fall wardrobe would be to opt to invest in classic cuts in neutral colors that layer easily and can work with many different outfits—think capsule wardrobe. The pieces in your fall wardrobe should mix and match effortlessly, and be weather and lifestyle appropriate.

Rip & Tan: What are 3 pieces every woman needs in her fall wardrobe? What about her year-round wardrobe?

Melo and Co: I think every woman needs a great long coat, a quality neutral chunky knit, and a well-fitting pair of neutral trousers.  

Rip & Tan: What’s your philosophy on accessorizing? Which fall accessories are you most looking forward to styling?

Melo and Co: Less is more. I wear the same minimal gold jewelry every single day, and when it comes to bags and shoes, I usually opt for blacks with really fresh shapes and textures. It comes down to quality too. I really believe in investing in quality accessories that you will wear on repeat.

Rip & Tan: Are there any styles or trends you’re ready to see less of?

Melo and Co: Ripped jeans come to mind. I used to be a ripped jean girl when I was much younger, and now I see it and think, how did I ever wear that!? I’ve changed a lot, and can’t see the value in ripped jeans with holes all the way up the thigh. I also think some of the 90s trends should stay in the 90s. My 8-year-old self is crying now that I said that, but I will not be wearing pink sunglasses again any time soon.