Wardrobe Stylist and image transformer, Melvin Sanders is the master mind behind the style transformation of Love and Hip Hop Atlanta's, Mimi Faust. He may be new to you but certainly not new to the fashion industry seeing that he began a fashion career years ago in Philly and moved to Atlanta fulfill his dreams of becoming a stylist. He is the true definition of believing in yourself, believing in your craft, and having faith while pursuing your dreams. I recently spoke with Melvin where he gave some insight on his clients style transformation, what we can expect from the upcoming season of Love and Hip Hop Atlanta in the style department, and some knowledge for aspiring stylists.
On how he got his start as a stylist and snagging Mimi Faust as a client:
"I got started as a stylist working with close friend and designer Bobbi Daii Jour in Philadelphia helping style his fashion shows. I moved to Atlanta, started meeting the right people, and I began promoting myself as a stylist. At first, I was getting booked to work with local talent and I started building my portfolio. I did all this just by stepping out on faith and believing in myself."
"I was introduced to Mimi by one of my close friends,Carlos King, who at the time was working on Love and Hip Hop Atlanta. He knew I was looking to expand my career, so he asked me would I like to style Mimi and I said ABSOLUTELY!! It was amazing finally having someone believe in me and want to see me fulfill my dreams. Carlos set up a meeting, I showed up with a vision board, and Mimi and I have been inseparable ever since."
Mimi's Style Transformation
On the creative direction for Mimi's looks this upcoming season:
"This season I was really inspired by Mimi's individuality. She's really starting to get into fashion so I wanted her input. I wanted to explore more with her confidence, because it has grown. She wears things that I would have never thought I could get her to wear. So by no means necessary did we play it safe this season."
On the trends that he is most excited to see this Summer:
"I'm mostly excited for men's clothing. I believe mens fashion has evolved the most in fashion right now. From crop tops, neon colors, floral blazers, metallics, mesh…I mean mens fashion has drastically changed. I'm excited to see men express themselves through fashion. I think it's amazing."
Advice for people looking to revamp their style:
"I would say create a vision board of style trends and fashion images you see yourself wearing. Embrace your individuality. Step out of your comfort zone and become those images. Be sure to shop smart, take advantage of sales, shop at places you know you will find something unique and stylish that fits your motif and your body type. Its very important that you look good in what you are wearing."
Advice for aspiring stylists:
Stay very humble. It's not easy stepping out on faith for what you truly believe in so trust your struggle and be patient. Practice your craft even if you have to dress yourself up and take phone pics and show your work, thats a start. Study all the fashion bibles: Vogue, Elle, W, Harper'sBazaar, and InStyle. Watch the red carpets and pay attention to runway shows. Educate yourself on fashion history, know your fabrics, be knowledgeable of body types, stay updated on what's in and what's not. Most importantly, do what works best for you and don't be afraid to do what everyone else isn't.
Melvin's Women closet "must haves"
Sedaraby Manolo blahnik
Invest in Chanel: pearls, classic flap bag, tweed suit
Vintage Versace piece
Louis Vuitton Luggage
Hermes Birkin
Follow Melvin on instagram at @melvinstyles
What do you think?