Even if you haven’t visited our Brisbane store, you may recognise Melaan from the Samantha Ogilvie Boutique Instagram or blog.
Melaan has 18 years’ experience in fashion retail, and her passion is styling and fashion in all forms – she loves to work with customers to find unexpected combinations and fresh inspiration for their wardrobes. Find out more about the charismatic woman behind the beautiful images.

Q: How long have you been with Samantha Ogilvie Boutique?
A: 7.5 years. Before that, I managed Lisa Ho in Brisbane for 8.5 years.

Why do you love what you do?
I absolutely love styling and find it so rewarding. Giving clients the confidence they need to feel amazing, along with encouraging them to push the boundaries in their wardrobe, all while having fun.

What has been your favourite moment at Samantha Ogilvie Boutique?
Each customer service moment is rewarding for me. It is so satisfying when I can contribute to making a customer feel really excited about how they look and feel, especially when they walk away with an unexpected outfit.

What do you think is this season’s essential item?
Alexandre Birman tie-up heel. It’s the shoe that completes every outfit!

What is something you can never get enough of?
La Prestic Ouiston prints. The silk twill fabric is incredible to wear and the prints every season are so addictive, which makes it very easy to keep adding more pieces to the wardrobe.

What is the hardest-working piece in your own wardrobe?
My Veja sneakers. They are such a fantastic sneaker and I really like the ethical background of the brand and how unique the designs are.

What item in your own wardrobe is most special to you, and why?
My MSGM pleated skirt. It features multiple prints which allows for many outfit options and occasions, and it just makes me so happy every time I wear it.

What’s inspiring you at the moment?
I really love pleated skirts. A few designers from Samantha Ogilvie offer in their collections beautiful mixed printed pleated skirts and they are simply divine and such a statement. I also love the fact that they can be worn back with anything from sneakers to heels.

Who are your style influences?
Hailey Bieber, Kendall Jenner and Michael Jackson.

What is your passion?
My passion, without question, is fashion. I also love spending time at the beach with my two little girls, to refresh and enjoy the sun together.

Favourite Instagram accounts?
Belen Hostalet for style and travel inspiration, and Hilton Carter for luscious plant styling and interiors.

Favourite travel destination?
Sri Lanka is one of my favourite places to visit. Not only is it my parents’ and grandparents’ heritage, but it is just such a beautiful country. There is lots of colonial architecture, and it’s perfect for a very relaxing holiday by the beach with delicious food, and surrounded by the local people who are simply beautiful.