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Globetrotter | Melaney Oldenhof

Stylist and Globetrotter Melaney Oldenhof was born in Paramaribo, Suriname and grew up in the Netherlands. Currently she is based in NYC where she rocks her international style for a variety of fashion clients. We recently caught up with Melaney and asked her to share her favorite style tips and travel fantasies! Read what she has to say...

How would you describe your style?

I love black, dark blue and gem colors. I love silk printed dresses and blouses from the 70's, 80's & 90's, which I have altered by my tailor. I take the big shoulder pads out and make it more modern so it fits my body well. I love the adventure of finding treasures. I often look on ebay, etsy and markets. I love, LOVE dresses and A-line circle skirts. I did not wear pants for many years until recently. I recently bought my first black denim jeans in over 6 years. Vintage designer dresses are the best. I have Saint Laurent, Pierre Cardin, Givenchy. But not only designer; I just bought this vintage black silk dress with big tigers on it. I also love hats and I really dress how I feel.

Who, what or where is the inspiration behind your style?

When I was 14/15 I already wore vintage. It was the Grunge period during the time of Nirvana. I would take the train and stroll markets in the closest city.

What do you love most about the city your live in? Can you share your top three favorite spots for eating, drinking and shopping?

I love NYC and moved to the other side of the world for it. There is a lot of possibility and opportunity in this city with its fast pace and energy. Especially for career! It's a melting pot of all these different people and cultures, which is most inspiring. I love sushi and eat it almost everyday. I love healthy (tasteful) food and smoothies. I drink one almost every morning for breakfast. The one closest to my house is Organic Avenue. But I also go to the nearby deli and have them make a carrot/beet/apple juice.

Resurrection and New York Vintage are my favorite high-end vintage stores. The people are so nice and I have been there so many times I think I know their archives by memory now.

What is a typical [if there is such a thing] day like in your life on the road or at home?

During the week, I prep the wardrobe for photoshoots and I go to appointments at Showrooms and I am physically on set as well. So every day is different.

What is your favorite item you have ever purchased or been given while on a trip?

I love coconuts. When I was in the Bahamas one of the guys climb in the three and got me fresh ones. The best!

Where do you like to shop while travelling?

Always vintage markets, thrift stores and small boutiques.

Where is your favorite travel destination?

Somewhere sunny, green, with palmtrees, white sand beaches and fresh coconuts.

And your dream destination?

I would love to see as much as I can. I have never been to Thailand. And I have seen many beautiful pictures passing by through friends. I also love thaiboxing, so I would like to go there someday. Also I have never been back to where I was born, so that's on my to-do list as well.

What is your #1 travel/packing tip?

Don't pack too much!! Learn to edit down. Make combinations & outfits before you pack. Especially shoes, they take a lot of weight. I am getting better and better myself. I actually helped my friend recently to "edit" her suitcase, for her 2 week - Australia trip. She basically wanted to pack 500 tank tops and shorts and skirts...

Describe the last exotic trip you took.

St Barths, 2 years ago for work. It?s so beautiful there.

What are you coveting from the www.l-atitude.com site?

I love a lot of items on the site. It?s so colorful!

What used to be normal becomes special now. There is nothing more personal and beautiful then receiving a handwritten card from family, friends or lover. I got one this summer send from my hometown Amsterdam and it was truly touching. I think we should do that way more often. It's like receiving a little present!

Shop more from Yellow Owl Workshop here.

I am a big vintage lover, and Mischa clutches are inspired by vintage Japanese kimonos. I don't wear crazy colors daily, but its nice to spice up a solid outfit with a colorful clutch!

I do love these travel clutches..

Shop more from the Mischa collection here.

I always wear the same jewelry. I wear a lot of rings. I love these Genevieve Jones safety pins earrings since they came out. They are timeless and cool! I actually used them recently in a photo shoot. And I really want to get a pair.