By: Vanessa Haim Photography: Danny Delgado Video Production: Focus Media
We’ve all had those days when you walk over to the closet and that one colorful shirt speaks to you, and you know today you are feeling adventurous- today you are going to feel happy! Melissa Brouard is behind the newly-launched Etsy shop, Mood Ring Boutique and is bringing you that unique everyday-feeling to your closet!
Vintage, Upcycled & Everything In Between!
She always knew she wanted to open an online store, but it was with costume designing that she got her initial start in fashion.
Her extensive costume design skills, acquired from years of working with entertainment companies (in addition to being inspired by club kids, over the top drag queens, and eccentric fashion icons) ties in just that, giving Mood Ring that flair & custom “upcycled” edge.
Vintage entered the equation when friends began to buy off the vintage pieces she would uncover while thrifting for herself on the weekends. The turning point came when Christy Silvia, of Flash Studios Miami, requested vintage pieces to sell in her studio, Melissa knew it was the perfect opportunity worth pursuing.
Just like a mood ring- a novelty ring that changes colors in response to the wearer’s spirit- the name Mood Ring Boutique came about from Melissa’s “all-over-the-place” style. Like an ever changing fashion chameleon, “Versatility,” she states, “is the inspiration.”
“You don’t have to be confined to one style”
Mood Ring’s clothing incorporates just that. You can find vintage pieces ranging from 80’s blouses, belts and shirts, to one-of-a-kind 90’s floral dresses in her shop.
Get to know this doll, Mood Ring Boutique’s Melissa, a little more…
Name: Melissa Brouard Location: Miami, FL Occupation: Student
Hobbies & Interest: Running, designing, crafting, thrifting, movies, playing tourist, beach, and hanging out at various cafes with friends.
Influences: Be more specific. This list could be long.
One item in your wardrobe you can’t live without: Sunglasses and oversized tops. Sadly, my favorite Oliver Peoples sunglasses, were stolen. I’m always running late for things, so oversized tops are quick and easy to change into, and to dress up or dress down. I’m all about versatility.
Top 5 artist/songs on your iPod: Hmm…I definitely have not been keeping up with music like I should be, but I never get tired of The Black Angels, Washed Out. I love classic rock (The Runaways are a guilty pleasure), 90’s hip-hop, electronica, and I absolutely love James Brown and R&B artists from the 50’s-70’s. I recently discovered The Kukumbas, and I’m also a fan of a Miami Group called Poko Loco. I would kill to go through Quentin Tarantino’s music library. Sorry, that’s more than 5.
For an exclusive ‘Behind The Scene’s look at the Mood Ring Boutique shoot make sure to check out the Focus Media video by Sam Cavero (below).
Outfit Details: Always Vintage Clothing 70’s Suede Poncho
“I can be preppy, goth, grunge & elegant.”
Outfit Details: Upcycled Megadeth Chain Tee
Behind The Scenes