UO Interviews:
Micaéla Verrelien
Meet Micaéla Verrelien! Her Instagram (@micaelaverrelien) is self-described as "a landing page for #positivevibes," a statement we readily agree with. To highlight those aforementioned positive vibes, Micaéla pulled together five outfits for the end of the summer that focus on her self-love and love of people. Read on to learn more about Micaéla, how to style with color, and how she stays inspired.
Hi Micaéla! Tell us a little bit about yourself for those who don’t know you.
I am a first-generation island gyal born in Boston, Massachusetts, currently residing in New York City. I am a creative director, model, and content creator.
What’s 2020 been like for you so far?
2020 overall has been an emotional roller coaster. Finding a new normal and figuring out how to navigate through each day has been challenging but rewarding. Rewarding because it has given me a chance to truly spend more time alone and gauge the opportunity of getting to know myself more.
We loved your recent editorial for Man Repeller – tell us a little bit about how that came to be.
The editorial for Man Repeller came to be after the Black Lives Matter movement took social media by storm. I wanted to find a way to speak my truth in a beautiful way. Man Repeller opened up their platform to me and gave me an opportunity with no restrictions. One of the funniest things for me is to be able to creatively direct projects. Prior to the Man Repeller piece I creatively directed something for Teen Vogue. Seeing my prior work and fresh idea for the times we are currently living in, I was able to pitch my vision to the Man Repeller editors and was blessed enough to get it approved.
What other projects would you love to work on this year? Anything up your sleeve?
I want to continue to work on meaningful projects and tell stories that need to be told. My niche is to tell stories in visual form and allow the unseen to feel seen. I'm also currently working on something new as we speak. I can’t say more than that, but make sure you stay up to date with everything via Instagram @micaelaverrelien.
Tell us a little bit about each of the outfits you chose for us and how you went about styling them – any references you can share?
Outfit 1: I really wanted this outfit to showcase summer going into fall. The blue half sweater is perfect for that "summer into fall" moment. Showing a little skin still but with an added layer of cloth to protect you if you were to get chilly. This mild blue monochrome moment, mixed with a patterned jacket, really sets a cool tone for the overall look.
Outfit 2: The amazing thing about fall is that during the week we tend to have those beautiful, random sunny warm days. This outfit is set up exactly for those types of days. Yellow monochrome all the way! I love the color yellow because it brings in happiness. When styling this outfit, I really wanted to fill my body with joy and that is exactly what I did.
Outfit 3: Comfort is key! That is my motto. This outfit exudes who I am inside and out. AKA: sexy nerd alert. I love a nice one shoulder top, especially when it has a beautiful multi-tone pattern. Pairing the one shoulder top with these sleek trousers is something that was purposely done. I wanted to dress the outfit down, but not too much. The colors of both the top and the trousers looked great together, and gave me the casual but not too casual look.
Outfit 4: From the moment I saw these super cool glasses, I knew that I wanted to style myself with them. They set the tone for the full outfit, so I dressed based on the mood of the frames. A beautiful blush color tone is what I went for. These really cool jeans are sporty and look so great with a pretty femme corset. I loved pairing a cool sporty item with something a bit more femme. I think it brings in character.
Outfit 5: This full look was intended for fall and to show how layering can be super cute. I love a great layering moment and fall is the perfect time to do so. It’s very rare for me to see a blazer worn over a thick sweater, so it’s something I wanted to try out. I love to try new things when it comes to fashion. Pairing this outfit with sandals was also very intentional. I believe that in the beginning of fall, right before it gets a bit too cold, styling your outfits with sandals can really bring a pretty asset to your overall look.
Help – how do we (easily) incorporate more color into our wardrobes?
As an island gyal, color is something that I am always attracted to. In order to add a bit more color into your wardrobe, I would say start with purchasing a few bright accessories that can bring a pop of color to your outfit. It will help gauge the level of color you like, but in a small capacity. From a beautiful olive bag to something as small as a bright yellow earring.
We know you shot at a couple locations that would allow you to practice social distancing – any tips and tricks for shooting this way for people who may feel a little stunted creatively during this time?
When shooting during our new normal, I ALWAYS make sure to wear my mask and I take it off only while taking my photos. I make sure if I am shooting in a place that is public, I am at least 6ft apart from everyone. I also try not to shoot in any public places.
What’s a pipe dream you have for yourself and your career?
A pipe dream that I have for myself is that I can continue to collaborate with amazing brands such as Urban Outfitters. I hope that I can model more for brands that I love and that I can also grow as a Creative Director. I really enjoy telling stories and I hope I can get hired to do that soon in a bigger capacity. I also have a dream of being a working actor! I hope that it happens one day.
Who are some people and/or publications you look up to?
I really look up to Vogue. I feel like they are a staple for a lot that is happening in the new world of fashion and beauty right now. They are doing a lot of awesome things right at the moment. They have a great team and have been able to continually tell inclusive stories that have meaning and I really love that!
We love your positive Instagram page – how do you keep yourself feeling inspired and like you’re always moving forward?
My family and my social media supporters inspire me. They allow me to keep going even when I want to give up. Not every day is easy, even when you love what you do. This entire business comes with a lot of pressure and you have to be ready to fail at times. I have failed one too many times and I’ve recognized the beauty in it. Failing has helped me learn to appreciate when I win. It means that much more to me.
Finally, what are the top 3 songs on your “On Repeat” Spotify playlist? No cheating!
Beyoncé – Power
Drake Ft. Lil Durk – Laugh Now Cry Later
Koffee - Lockdown
Follow Micaéla on Instagram here: https://www.instagram.com/micaelaverrelien/!
Talent: Micaéla Verrelien
Producer: Micaéla Verrelien
Creative Director: Micaéla Verrelien
Photographer: Camille Shaw
Hair Stylist: Nie Alston
Photographer: Camille Shaw
Hair Stylist: Nie Alston