Interview with an American Apparel Model

Meet Mele:
RSP: What is your current position in the fashion industry? (Feel free to include previous experience as well).
I've been modeling for almost 8 years and have also dabbled in fashion styling and hair and makeup.

RSP: Which fashion designers or runway trends influence your overall look?
My favorite designer is and always has been Marc Jacobs, for his quirky details on otherwise basic pieces. I also really love what Balmain is doing right now with their 80s influences and I love Phillip Lim for his attention to detail and great tailoring...

RSP: What is the biggest TREND or MUST- HAVE ITEM for summer?
My biggest must have trend for summer is anything floral! I can't get enough of girly flirty floral prints which can be mixed with tougher gladiator sandals or chunky leather booties.

RSP: What is your most prized fashion possession?
I do a lot of vintage shopping and a lot of my favorite things come from these trips, like my flat black boots, I've had them for a few years now and they have no fancy label or details but they are one of the things I couldn't live without. They are so classically me!

RSP: What can we find in your closet?
You can find anything from a fuschia silk Phillip Lim cocktail dress to a pair of high waisted acid wash jeans from a thrift store in Tennessee. I just picked up this amazing floral dress from Forever 21 which I'm obsessed with right now and I also love my purple suede Dolce Vida gladiator heels I got for christmas from my boyfriend! And of course lots and lots of American Apparel bodysuits which I couldn't live without.

RSP: In your opinion what is the biggest fashion faux pas???
Not expressing yourself through your clothes is the biggest faux pas, as long you feel great and are having fun I say wear it! Unless of course you've poured yourself into too tight faux patent leggings, even I can't pull that one off!!