A Stylist’s Resources for a Modern Yet Timeless Look

updated May 3, 2019

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Name: Mel Holmes
Occupation: Stylist with Madewell Rush Street

I spent a winter afternoon photographing Mel Holmes’ gorgeous Chicago loft. From the way she dresses herself each day, to how she styles her home and cares for her plants, to her David Yurman wedding ring, Mel’s look is one of beauty and grace. This girl is one to follow. She has a love for effortless, tomboy cool and crafts looks that seem both timeless yet modern. Mel is a stylist with Madewell and offers private interior and wardrobe styling services. She lives in the East Village of Chicago with her husband, Austin. As an influencer in the Chicago fashion scene, I asked her a few questions about her personal style.

(Image credit: Aimée Mazzenga)

Your very favorite outfit: That’s easy! Vintage Levi’s, tight white tee and leather jacket. Not only my favorite jacket could be my uniform, ha

The #1 item from you fashion wish list: I hate to say it but…. Gucci slides

The TV or movie character’s wardrobe you’d steal in a minute: Actress Clemence Poesy. She is my ultimate style icon/girl crush

Your best bargain find ever: There is this little random gift shop in Ohio close to where I grew up that has a couple racks of clothing in the back and I found these amazing wrap wide leg pants. They are one size and completely random but always make me feel amazing. I loved them so much I have them in both black and navy.

→ See Mel’s plant-filled, modern home!

(Image credit: Aimée Mazzenga)

Three things from your closet you couldn’t live without:

leather jacket
Levi’s
silver lamé wide leg pants

The item you no long have but wish you did: I used to mainly wear vintage and I had THE most amazing jumpsuit that fit like a dream and made me feel both sexy and powerful. I started moving away from vintage and parted ways with the jumpsuit and almost weekly I regret not being able to pull that baby out!

Most fashionable friend and why: Easy… Ashley Elizabeth. She mixes both high fashion trends with effortless style. She can pull off gowns with converse. She always is on point and sexy but looks as if she barely tried. BABE.