From Classroom to Catwalk: Curated Cool’s Melinda Fleming

Photos Courtesy of Melinda Fleming

Melinda Fleming of Curated Cool lives the life I dream of one day living. She travels all over the world and shops at designer vintage stores, but is still down-to-earth enough to tell me how grateful she is to have a blog in the first place. Melinda, if you’re reading this: adopt me?

Here, Melinda shares what it’s like to meet the Dalai Lama, why your best friend should read your blog posts, and why you should stay on top of your emails:

The Interview:

College Fashion: Tell us a little bit about yourself. 

Melinda Fleming: Born and raised in Hong Kong, I grew up traveling with my family a lot. My father was an airline pilot, so we got to see the world at a really young age. I have worked mainly as a voice-over artist in all aspects, [and am] now [a] fashion and travel blogger. I love the world of entertainment and technology. Especially how in a digital format it is coming together.

CF: How would you define your style?

MF: My style would be minimal, classic, chic. I lean towards an unfussy look, and believe that less is ALWAYS more.

CF: How did you find your style? 

MF: Probably my mum. She was a minimalist as well. [She was] very classic and made every outfit look effortless. She has amazing style. To be able to make an outfit look effortless is always key!

Photos Courtesy of Melinda Fleming

CF: What inspired you to start a style blog? What motivates you? 

MF: I was looking to start something online, not even thinking about it being a blog. A lot of people, from friends to even strangers at a party, would always ask me “Where did you get that?” from what I was wearing, to accessories, to items in my home. They validated my taste and style, which gave me an “Ah-Ha” moment. So that’s how I knew to proceed forward.

CF: Did you go to college? If so, where did you go to school and what did you study? What was your college experience like? 

MF: I did not go to college. BUT I did travel the world. I traded a degree for a backpack, and spent those years traveling and living in different countries meeting amazing people and their cultures. I absolutely believe in college and education, I just personally picked a different path. The experiences I gained have allowed me to thrive today, and one of the biggest highlights was being blessed by the Dalai Lama in his home town in India.

CF: Where do you like to shop? 

MF: I shop at a lot of high-end thrift stores. Or stores that offer a great designer selection. Designer vintage is one of the best fashion investments, as you get it at a bargain price, and it will always be re-sellable. I also love unique boutiques that offer unheard of designers, especially the ones overseas. Anytime someone says to you “Where did you get that?” its a pretty huge compliment. Opening Ceremony and Barneys NY are key, too…

CF: What advice do you have for being stylish on a college budget? 

MF: Really know who you are as a person and what you want your style to be. It can always change at any time, but knowing who you are and how you want to be perceived will save you time and money. Also, focus on what works for your body, and you will always come out ahead.

CF: What are your favorite pieces in your wardrobe? 

MF: Oh gosh, where do I start! I have a cream-colored silk Céline blouse that melts my heart every time I wear or look at it. I have a collection of fine Italian leather bags that are vintage and slightly worn in, but that Italian leather… It is a statement to any outfit. And a wonderful chevron striped sequin top in blue and green. Everybody says to me “Where did you get that?”

CF: Who/what inspires you most? 

MF: Who? Talent inspires me. Art, well thought out ideas, and also the art of just doing it. Living in the moment is beyond refreshing.

What? I honestly want to be a better artist every day, and I love sharing content with the community that wants to listen. I push myself to try to do better than the day before. I get fired up by comments and the feedback. The community makes me want to do and be better, and I hope to.

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CF: Any advice for new bloggers or college students starting a blog? 

MF: It might seem scary at first, but just do it! I know a lot of people worry about topic, font, design, what should I call my blog, etc., etc. Worry about the little things later – but the act of doing, being consistent and mainly having a voice, will lead you to where you are meant to be. Your voice will also grow.

And ALWAYS be true to yourself. You can’t please everyone, and you don’t need to. Have a best friend read a post and say to them “Is this really me?” You will find out pretty fast.

Photos Courtesy of Melinda Fleming

CF: What’s writing a blog really like? Could you describe a typical day? 

MF: Ha! Well, I’m sure a few people have said it’s not always glamorous, and it’s true! Again, this comes back to your voice. Who are you and what do you want to say – Write that as a tagline and always look at it. It’s helped so many times. Being your own boss is hard for sure, having to discipline yourself to write, do your own social media, etc., is not always easy, but being organized and on an editorial calendar will help.

A typical day is editing pictures, writing a story (which makes people want to read) and really making it about your audience. We do this for them, we share who we are to help, so make it worth their while. Then, getting the next set of looks organized, pulled from certain PR houses if need be, collaborations, and always being a professional. Emails. Be on top of your emails!

I am beyond grateful to have a wonderful platform to share, and wouldn’t change it for a thing.

Your Thoughts?

Do you read Curated Cool? Who should I interview next? Tell me in the comments section!