Our Stories
Celebration Dressing with Stylist Monica Morales
Monica Morales is a Sydney-based stylist and creative director renowned for her bold use of colour and pattern.
Having experienced various roles in the fashion industry over the past 15 years, Monica now works with a range of clients on editorials, brand campaigns, digital content and more.
Ahead of event season, we spoke to Monica on the importance of accessories and incorporating colour into occasion wardrobes.
Tell us about your work day—what might it involve?
As a freelance stylist I work across styling brand campaigns, fashion editorials, runway shows, styling personalities, music videos and advertising, so my day-to-day is always quite different as the prep for all these jobs is quite different. Usually on, say, a sourcing day, I’d wake up early, make myself a coffee, reply to all my emails and make a list for the day of places I need to visit. I’m usually out the door by 10am, with my first sourcing appointment at around 10:30am. From here, I run from appointment to appointment selecting clothing, accessories and props for the jobs I am working across. I might also have a client meeting or two for another job in between sourcing, so it’s very much a juggling act. Then after lots of sourcing appointments (and lots of coffees) I head to my studio, unpack, start putting looks together and see what I am missing and what gaps need to be filled for another day of sourcing.
How would you describe your style?
I would say my style is very eclectic, mixing pieces in unexpected ways but also quite vibrant as I am a big colour lover. Pinks, yellows, oranges and metallics are my faves but lately I’ve been wearing so much red, white and blue.
I’ll try most silhouettes as long as the styling of an outfit works proportionally. That’s why I am big on accessories—they help balance proportions and also add personality to your look.
Your style involves a lot of colour and print. For those who normally favour neutrals, what are some ways to incorporate colour into event dressing?
If you don’t often wear colour I’d say just stick to one colour or print and mix it back with neutrals, like a white, black, nude or denim, as it’s a fail-safe. Another way is to incorporate colour through your makeup, opting for a bold red lip, maybe a coloured eye wash or a vibrant manicure/pedicure.
As someone with a busy work day, how do you prepare for evening events?
I always have two spare pairs of heels in my car—one neutral tan strappy stiletto, one heeled white pointed toe—as well as a small box of dressy jewellery, which, if I am running to an event or a meeting I can quickly change into or add to my look.
I also love a good boyfriend blazer, it instantly makes any outfit feel more chic and put together.
What are your event dressing essentials? What do you think really makes a look special?
Accessories! This is what gives a look personality and really elevates the styling, taking it from day to night, making it more special and event-ready. I like bold gold or silver jewellery that really stands out, and some simple neutral heels that go with anything.
