Sample Uber Wishlist

Style: Luminous, Polished, Effortless, Happy, Creative 

Body type: Petite Short Waisted Hourglass

Style Package: Absolute 360 (Full Service Styling + Intimates)

Career: Real Estate Agent

Lifestyle: She has boundless energy and is always on the go. Living in a more casual environment, far from the city, she was looking for opportunities to amp up her style. Her life is very full as she balances her career with parenting three high school and college age kids in partnership with her husband. The two of them are artists at heart and that is evident in their home. Additionally, she help raise money for causes that are important to her doing stand up comedy and gives back to the community on a regular basis. She has made self care a priority recently. When she purchased her styling package she said, “I’ve spent more on landscaping in one season. I realized that I should be able to spend that investing in myself.” And so she did.

Approach: Preparing her Uber Wishlist was a dream. She was ready to experiment and celebrate her figure. Committed to exercise and healthy living, she was excited to celebrate her shape in mid life. She is also deeply committed to ethical sourcing of materials and fair labor standards. The intimates wishlist was a continuation of our pledge to honor her values, celebrate her life AND encourage her to continue making self care and beauty a priority.

In her words:

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, style profiles, and testimonials. I was captivated. Several women expressed that they had spent so many years focused outward, on work, family, etc., that they could no longer see themselves. That resonated with me.

Working with Mellicia has been an enlightening and transformative experience.... By embracing the process, I had more fun than I could ever 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 brands, colors and styles that flatter my particular body type. I am asked daily about what I’m wearing, and I 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 my dog, my clothes are a reflection of my newfound joy and pride in my appearance."

Luminous, Polished, Effortless, Happy, Creative 

Uber Wishlist, October, 2022

Heads up! Poplin is an affiliate. Every item on this list has been chosen especially for you, whether or not affiliate income is available. When you are ready to purchase, click through the images below. If you purchase i that session, Poplin may receive a commission at no additional cost to you. Thanks so much and have fun!

Oh my goodness! I’m not sure I’ve ever been so excited about anything! The universe kicked things off right with an introduction to a new ethical brand in my inbox this morning. The laundry list of reasons it is magical is long. And this is only the beginning. The items on this list flatter your frame, communicate your authentic personal style, work for you lifestyle and are all about your supreme value of ethical standards for workers. There are a zillion ways to mix and match and I’ve offered up lots of choices. So dive in and don’t overthink. Just have fun!

First up, Noiranca. As I mentioned, this brand is doing all the things for the world. And, you can clearly see that this piece will elicit questions and comments. In a nod to your art gallery past, this is just the piece to announce who you are to any room.

Of course, that stellar clutch goes with everything. For now, why not try it with these earrings from one of my favorite makers, Noonday. Noonday empowers artisans in various countries and has specific info for each piece on the site. I vote for these earrings when you want your outfit to feel more polished. Also, sticking with gold means that your jewelry will mix and match easily with your entire collection saving you time in the morning and on trips.

I had my first Poplin event at Seattle boutique, Velouria, and have been a devoted fan for years. Everything in the store is made in the US or Canada and has a unique vibe. This ring will last a lifetime and makes any outfit feel more feminine and polished without much effort.

I know! Right?! This coordinated set is for your big night out. It’s super flattering for your frame and the skirt, in particular, minimizes your stomach. I know how much you adore this color and the designer is one of the premier black designers of resortwear and more, Andrea Iyamah. If you don’t feel super comfortable with showing your stomach, there are lots of alternatives. But, if you feel up to it, you’d look incredible AND be comfortable all night as this allows you to wear a traditional bra.

This pair of earrings is available in multiple colors, is made in Seattle AND will mix and match easily with your entire collection. Bold earrings are an easy way to elevate any look just before you head out the door.

Try them with THIS. Okay, let’s talk about this vegan leather trench. I’ve had the black version of this for at least 3 or 4 years and it hasn’t aged a day. It can be tossed into the washing machine, but I’d do that only when necessary. It feels super supple and is an ideal rain coat. Now, it’s from the Reset and the companies labor practices are unclear although this is Italian vegan leather, so that makes me hopeful. I do have another option on the list with clear labor practices. Either way, this works with virtually every outfit and can elevate even a t-shirt, jeans and sneakers.

This sweater was one of my earliest finds for you and I’ve been pretty excited about it ever since. Autumn yellows bring you joy and this relaxed cropped sweater shows off your waist without sacrificing style. I love it with pretty much every bottom on the list, so rest assured, it will be a go-to. For now, let’s try it with the earrings above, the vegan leather trench and….

This skirt! Yes! It’s the same style as the plum version above. Things to keep in mind: the plum option is a silkier fabric and will feel dressier. The orange and yellow are on sale and only available in limited sizes. It’s possible that you’ll want an XL in this brand based on their sizing structure. Take a look. If a large feels right, go for yellow, if XL, orange is the answer. I really love this skirt with or without the coordinated top. But, you certainly won’t need three of them:)

And finish off this outfit of dreams with these boots from LA based Staud. The heel is 2.16 inches, which may or may not work for you. (I know we discussed lower heels, but your new green boots are taller.) I vote for a knee high boot to simplify your stocking/ hosiery/ tights situation. If it feels like a struggle to take off knee high boots when you head into a client’s home, then opt for lower choices further along in the list.

I was wearing jewelry from Diarrablu when I saw you and I’m a huge fan of this company based in Senegal. There’s a lovely story about the founder, too. Common in traditional African dresses, the top half is convertible and can be transformed into several different looks. You’ll look beautiful with it styled as below, but rest assured, you can wear it over both shoulders for work. The fabric is lightweight and beautiful IRL and usually the brand will customize the length for you before sending. This is also a great choice to go from work to play and the teal leather jacket further down on this list layers over it perfectly. Because you can control the belt placement and thickness, it will help balance your proportions and give the impression that you aren’t short waisted.

This is SO you.

Let’s make sure you have some key layering pieces. This one from Boden is flattering, comfortable and super useful with your new and existing collection. Not only does Boden have sustainable practices, the brand also started featuring East Indian models a couple of years ago, which is still uncommon.

Okay! We’ve got the love ring, the v-neck tee and now these workhorse pants, also from Boden. This cropped flare pair is just what we discussed. They minimize your stomach and balance expressive or bulky tops out without overwhelming your frame. You may have noticed that your color palette does not include black. Instead, we’re going with shades of blue, greens, browns and cream or white as your neutrals for maximum simplicity.

What’s cooler than wooden hoops? Wooden hoops that empower artisans. Also, wood is another neutral, ensuring these go with virtually everything and keep your outfit feeling more relaxed. Plus, you are sure to get questions and compliments about these beauties.

This product will blow your mind. A vegan leather trench coat made from cacti. Yes, please. Remember, the stem never clashes with the flower- green goes with everything. It’s all about finding the proper green for the outfit. For you, I also love mixing various shades of green together which will bring complexity to your outfit and elongate your frame. Translation: this jacket is actually super practical.

I know we want to avoid shapeless shifts, but this one will be everything when we are done tailoring it:) For now, take a look at the stunning print that will slide effortlessly into your existing collection. This is super useful for work or play. It’s also a contender for your performances at schools. We can also go more casual for those, depending on the situation.

Wooden hoops, green vegan leather trench, print dress and a pair of Coclico wedge booties. With a 1.37 inch heel, these are the perfect heigh to give you lift without sacrificing comfort. So many of my clients have had success with this NYC based brand over the years. The shoes hold up really well and are comfortable, luxurious and easy to pair. I vote for this wine pair for maximum flexibility.

My goal is to find accessories that thrill you, so here’s another pair of earrings, this time made in PDX.

Try those earrings with this combo. It’s the same orange skirt as above with the coordinated top. Again, you don’t need the plum, yellow and orange. Just go with your fav(s).

We’ll do another list focused on loungewear, undergarments and hosiery. For now, here’s my favorite sustainable hosiery company and the “nude” fishnets I recommend to work with this outfit and these boots. I feel like it’s helpful to get a sense of how to complete this look. I know how challenging stockings can be. Our goal is to avoid leggings and go for a bare leg or hosiery.

Aw man, Coclico does it again. Yes, these have a higher shaft than an ankle boot. Typically, they’d be mid calf. That may or may not be true for you. Let’s talk about why they are here. First, because this is close to a “nude” it won’t cut you off the way that a black or colored boot would. It also means that they’ll be easy to pair, as the color goes with virtually anything. The heel is 1.9 inches and I expect these to be really comfortable based on my own experience and that of other clients. These should also be easy to take off and on when you enter a client’s home.

Yes! The green clutch is spectacular. But, I am well aware that it isn’t an everyday bag. THIS, however, is an ideal everyday bag including a pocket for your phone on the outside. It’s from the same company as the green clutch, so expect two pieces of art to arrive in one box:)

Another unexpected pair of earrings from Noonday. The beauty of this color palette is that these earrings work with everything on the list. Done and done.

I can talk about Marcella NYC all day long. Empowering, super hip, ethical and philanthropic- the company still somehow manages to make luxurious products at a really reasonable price point. This feel just right for running around town. Layer one of your leather coats over top to kick things up a notch. It’s also just as good with sneakers as with boots.

One more option for the “nude” low boot. I want to give you options so you can select the pair(s) that appeal most for comfort and style. Try these with the orange earrings and the green sweatshirt dress.

As we discussed, I think the most practical approach to handbags is to have one clutch that goes inside your everyday bag. Inside that clutch, you can place any of your essentials (keys, lipstick, etc.). Then, when you need those items, just grab the clutch instead of digging into your bag. Going out after work? The clutch is already prepped for you with no need to head home. This super cool company was started by Mary Louise Parker. It makes sustainable bags that also support women in Africa. The story is all the things.

Try either clutch with THIS leather jacket of dreams from All Saints. (You can buy it now from All Saints or Nordstrom. I included both links in case sizes ran low.) An expressive short leather jacket is an essential for you and teal is an ideal neutral. It is eye catching without being loud and works with everything in your collection. I especially adore this one because the hardware is dark grey instead of shiny metal, which aligns better with your style. This length will show off your waist and the shape will minimize your stomach. Wear it with virtually anything on this list from dresses to pants- it’s a go-to.

You’ll either love this choice or not. Go with your gut. I adore a great Breton tee and Boden is the master. It’s a fun and easy layering piece. This one is navy with ivory stripes.

I vote for the teal leather jacket, the Breton tee and these 7/8 pants from Boden. They are super flattering for your shape, showing off your ankles and balancing your frame. In navy blue, they’ll be a quick fix for any outfit drama.

Finish off this look with these super hip sneakers from Woden. I know how much you love sneakers and these are going to be as easy to pair as the olive green pair currently in your closet.

This dress is so cool, flattering and functional. Because it has sleeves, you can skip layering, unless you want to. It’s also great for an evening event or can be styled for work. The neckline is flattering, but if it doesn’t appeal to you, you can skip this one or we can tailor it to change that portion.

A workhorse, this dress is flattering and just right for more conservative occasions. We’ll likely need to alter the length, so we can address the slit at the same time. To make this feel edgier, add the teal leather jacket and boots.

Another pair of Velouria earrings for the win.

Yes! You can wear something boxy if it is cropped or sheer. This cardigan is both and it has personality.

I’m a big fan of monochromatic outfits to elongate your frame and communicate a level of sophistication. This outfit is casual and still very polished. These pants will be longer on you:)

Kork Ease invented the wedge heel. That’s right. It’s a super comfortable brand and the key is finding pieces that don’t scream, “comfort shoe.” This pair of slides achieves that goal, is available in multiple colors and is ideal to hop in and out of client homes.

The question is whether or not you’d like a blazer. If so, this is absolutely the one. It’s ponte knit so it looks casual while also polished. And, it’s really comfortable. I vote for a blazer because it gives you flexibility when layering to stay warm. It’s an easy way to elevate a t-shirt and jeans, helping you go from working at home to seeing a client.

Marcella NYC’s tops are SO soft and comfortable, you’ll want to wear this everyday. Try it with the blazer and take off your jacket for drinks after work.

I’m a big fan of these wide leg pants for you. They come in other fabrics, but I vote for denim. They are hip, flattering and help make more luxurious pieces feel more approachable.

Try the navy blazer, Marcella top, wide leg jeans and these Coclico clogs. Notice they have a pointier toe than most with a wood bottom. You’ll get lift without much incline for maximum comfort.

A fun necklace that introduces more color into your accessories without sacrificing functionality.

This cut is everything. It minimizes your stomach, shows off your shape and is a crazy comfortable and functional piece. It will likely be too long, so we can also change the hemline to the shape that speaks to us. I really like the idea of the necklace above with this dress.

Colder weather is coming, so we have a collection of great knits on this list. You love batwing tops and they flatter your frame. Either color is a great choice, perhaps even both….

Just in case we want a pair of traditional jeans in the mix, this pair from Mother (a brand that works well for you and is good for the world) is just the pair. This wash is super relaxed, so feel free to go darker or to white if you’d like more polish.

And finishing off this look, a pair of Kahrus in your color palette. Ethically designed and made in Finland, they are hip, comfortable and a fun accent in your collection.

Two more tops from Marcella that are workhorse pieces without being boring. Both are comfortable, flattering and essential layering pieces for outfits.

Try either of those tops with the Richmond 3/4 length pant in orange. Yes! This is the same pair above in navy:)

And we’re almost to the finish line. A great minimalist piece, this necklace gives you an easy option for elevating any look without worrying about matching color schemes. Also, long necklaces draw the eye to your vertical middle minimizing your stomach.

Last but absolutely not least, how about layering that necklace over this cozy and polished dress from Marcella? The batwing style is flattering for your frame and this is just right when the weather changes. It will look great with your new green boots, among other things.

And there you have it! Remember, don’t overthink it. We’ll work together to make sure that you don’t have two pieces accomplishing the same goal so feel free to experiment. I cannot wait to hear what you think. Next stop, our styling session!