Interview | Melisa Macey Ross of VANRAE

Tell me a little bit about yourself?

Freelance creative advisor and brand consultant. Designer of fine beaded jewellery brand VANRAE. Mother of two. Married to my partner of 17 years - still overwhelmed by love and lust. Currently pursuing a degree in Psychological Science and Counselling with a plan to specialise in psychotherapy.

What are you enjoying listening to at the moment?

Recently I finished listening to Greenlights by Matthew McConaughey - I highly recommend it. In my broader podcast rotation, you will find an assortment of podcasts from the Mamamia Network, alongside podcasts made by friends, including Darling Shine and Sliding Doors. I also enjoy Unruffled, which provides a RIE perspective on parenting, and anything by Seth Godin, Tim Ferris, and Guy Raz.

Who are you inspired by?

Enigmatic artists who shine a palpable opacity on their subject regardless of its form.

How would you describe your personal style? What’s your daily uniform?

I build my wardrobe around essential pieces that are not dependent on the season but can be adjusted as needed. I seldom deviate from a muted colour palette and gravitate towards light, breathable fabrics and pieces that reflect continuity.

What are the longest standing pieces in your wardrobe? 

Classic suiting in luxurious tactile fabrics, Italian cotton shirting and coats or trenches in various weights.

Mel wears the Slim Leather Belt in solid brass.

A favourite piece in your space?

Artworks by our children. A vintage Hermès porcelain tray. We recently planted a Chanticleer Pear in front of our home. There is something spectacular about this tree - it is deciduous in winter, then produces a dramatic white flower in spring, glossy dark green leaves in summer, and a dramatic red leaf in the autumn.

What’s on your Wishlist?

A better skincare routine. The perfect driving loafers.

Signature dish/what are you currently cooking?

Mexican inspired soft tacos with spicy chickpeas, lots of flavoursome sides, and tangy plant-based chilli mayonnaise. I make the tacos from scratch using almond meal, tapioca flour, olive oil, coconut milk and sea salt flakes.

Favourite words? 

Each person you meet is an aspect of yourself.

When do you feel most yourself?

When I can skip performative small talk for deep heart-to-hearts.