Stylist Melissa Polo Landau On The Summer’s Top Fashion Trends

New York stylist Melissa Polo Landau is known as the “closet therapist” for helping top CEOs, executives and celebrities step up their style. Having worked with brands like PatBo, Harpers Bazaar and L’Officiel, she aims to empower women through their personal style.

With her company, MPL Styling Services, Polo Landau is accustomed to stepping into a client’s closet and transforming it (she offers a Four Hour Wardrobe Wonder, where Polo Landau creates outfits for two upcoming seasons).

Right now, all eyes are on summer style.

“This summer is all about effortless, comfortable fashion,” said Polo Landau.

Right now, she is most excited for the drop waist dresses from the 1920s, which are making a comeback. “They’re cool because they can help elongate a person’s torso, giving them a taller appearance,” said Polo Landau. Another hot trend is crochet, which is seen in everything from swimwear to handbags, matching sets and bodysuits.

Top colors this summer to echo the quiet luxury trend – with bursts of color. “This summer is all about embracing softer and more muted shades, with a touch of boldness,” she said. “It’s all about pale blue, a buttery yellow, and rich chocolate brown tones. These colors exude elegance and sophistication without being too overpowering.”

She doesn’t ignore our inner maximalist, either. For bold, statement pieces, she recommends going for bright green, vibrant orange, and cherry red. “These eye-catching shades are perfect for adding a pop of color to your wardrobe this summer,” said Polo Landau.

Another hot trend is designer handbags. “Miu Miu and Prada are taking the lead,” said Polo Landau, noting their summer collections, which are hot right now. She mentions Miu Miu’s leather hobo (which has adorable mini options), and Prada’s crochet tote bags.

When it comes to footwear, uncomfortable stiletto heels are out. Comfortable footwear is in. The trends that Polo Landau has been following include jelly cage sandals, fisherman sandals and 1990s-inspired kitten heels. “The jelly cage sandal is a standout,” she says, thanks to The Row’s 2024 footwear collection. “Jelly sandals are playful, yet chic. They add a touch of nostalgia to your summer style.”

Polo Landau says that if you need to dress up your summer looks, opt for a blazer. “For a more tailored and flattering silhouette, opt for a blazer that is fitted at the waistline,” she says. “This will create clean lines and accentuate your figure.” She also recommends going for a blazer with shoulder pads for a power look. “Blazers can also be used as an accessory, rather than a main piece,” notes Polo Landau. “Throw a blazer over your shoulders to add some dimension to your outfit,” she says.

A lot of women need professional photos of themselves, and a blazer is the go-to attire. But Polo Landau suggests how to style it properly.

“Pay attention to how you position your arms when doing this – it can make all the difference in how you’re photographed,” she said.

Being a stylist, Polo Landau is always thinking of how we evolve our personal style. “I have seen the transformative power of reimagining one’s personal style,” she said. “Many clients come to me feeling dissatisfied with their current look or struggling to find a unique sense of style that truly represents them.”

According to Polo Landau, we only use one fourth of our closets. “I see clients who struggle with using their full wardrobe; they sometimes feel overwhelmed by everything they own, so only end up only using a small portion of their closet.” She offers a solution. “By teaching my clients how to mix and match new pieces with older ones, I can help get more use out of your existing wardrobe, rather than going out and shopping for a whole new closet.”

Every day, Polo Landau works to push her clients outside of their comfort zones. “I want to help them discover new ways of dressing and expressing themselves,” she said.

Next up, she is hosting a summer kick-off at Marina St. Barth in Southampton on July 5 from 2:30 to 5:30 p.m., RSVP here.