MERNA MAKDISI
A Blonde Styling
@ablondestyling; @mernamakdisi
Shelby Twp.
Merna Makdisi had already earned a degree in Criminal Justice, began a career as a paralegal, then returned to school for a master’s in Cybersecurity before she made an important realization.
The 9-5 was not for her.
So she pivoted and launched A Blonde Styling — a virtual and in-person styling and personal-shopping business specializing in sourcing some of the most sought-after luxury pieces in the world.
“At the core, I’m a Luxury Fashion Concierge and Wardrobe Consultant,” Makdisi says. “But honestly, I wear a lot of hats — and usually a great pair of heels.”
Makdisi tells Birmingham City Lifestyle about her journey to fashion and fulfillment — and spills her style secrets.
BIRMINGHAM CITY LIFESTYLE How did A Blonde Styling start?
MERNA MAKDISI Shortly after starting my Instagram page, I accepted a position at Neiman Marcus at the Somerset Collection as a personal styling assistant, which gave me deeper insight into high-end retail and the luxury client experience. Just three months later, I stepped away to pursue A Blonde Styling full time. What began as a creative outlet has evolved into a global sourcing and personal-styling business built on strong relationships, a curated eye and a commitment to helping clients elevate their personal style with confidence and ease.
BCL When did you become interested in fashion?
MM From a young age, I was involved in modeling and pageantry, which sparked my love for getting dressed up and expressing myself through style. I’ve always believed that fashion is more than just clothing — it’s a source of confidence and identity and tells a story.
While I was an undergrad, I modeled for a local boutique in Birmingham called Lexi Drew, where I worked closely with the owner and my dear friend, Dianna. We styled looks together and curated outfits — a hands-on experience that helped shape my creative eye and deepen my passion for fashion. Dianna played a huge role in inspiring what I do now, and since her passing in 2021, I feel in many ways, I’m carrying a part of her legacy forward through A Blonde Styling.
BCL When did you realize that you could make a career of styling?
MM I always knew I didn’t want to be confined to just one retailer. I never wanted to tell a client ‘no’ or be limited in what I could offer — I wanted the freedom to truly curate without restrictions. I started out organically, sharing looks, sourcing pieces for close friends and offering styling advice purely out of passion.
As demand grew, I realized I could turn what I loved into a full-time business. Eventually The Forbes Company — owner and operator of Somerset Collection — offered me a personal stylist partnership. That opportunity was a game changer. It allowed me to shop across all the stores under the Forbes portfolio, including three malls in Florida, giving me access to exclusive inventory and expanding what I could offer my clients far beyond what’s available locally.
A big misconception is that I work for just one store, but A Blonde Styling is completely independent and allows me to partner and collaborate with a wide range of stores, designers and inventory. From there, A Blonde Styling grew rapidly — and has since secured successful partnerships with leading luxury retailers and brands including Saks Fifth Avenue, Neiman Marcus, Moda Operandi, Saint Laurent, Jimmy Choo, Reformation and more.
BCL What does your social media offer to followers?
MM In the beginning, people started following me not just for what I could find, but for how I wore it, styled it and talked about it. It’s never about pushing product. I don’t post anything I wouldn’t personally wear or love myself. It’s about sharing inspiration, showing how fashion fits into real life and connecting with people who truly appreciate style the way I do.
Now, I create fashion-forward content, share styling tips, highlight new arrivals and showcase my personal style — along with the pieces I’m currently obsessing over. Instagram has become more than just a platform for me; it’s where I get to connect with shoppers, trend lovers and fellow fashion girls in a fun, real and stylish way.
BCL What is A Blonde Styling’s goal?
MM To continue building and growing A Blonde Styling so I can serve my clients at the highest level. I never want to tell someone, ‘Sorry, it’s sold out.’ I want to be the one who finds the impossible — the piece they couldn’t track down, the bag that’s waitlisted everywhere or the outfit that makes them feel like them again!
It’s about going above and beyond — not just styling, but delivering an experience. As my business grows, so does my access, my network and my ability to say yes to the clients who trust me with their wardrobe.
BCL What is the value of working with a personal stylist?
MM Personal styling and curated shopping experiences have grown tremendously, especially in the last few years. During and after the pandemic, online personal shopping really had its moment — and it hasn’t slowed down since.
People began craving a more elevated, personalized approach to shopping — and they wanted someone who could not only style them, but actually source what they couldn’t find on their own. Whether it’s a sold-out piece, a rare designer item or something not available in their local market, I take pride in finding what’s not easily accessible and delivering it in a seamless, stress-free way.
Today, more people understand that personal styling isn’t just for celebrities or red carpets. It’s for busy professionals, new moms, fashion lovers and anyone who wants to feel confident in what they wear. It’s efficient, it’s tailored and it’s an investment in yourself.
BCL How would you describe your personal style?
MM Feminine, elevated and effortless — with a touch of edge when the mood is right. I love mixing high and low, timeless and trendy, and I’m always drawn to clean lines, quality fabrics and pieces that feel both luxurious and wearable.
My styling philosophy is all about balance. I don’t believe in forcing trends — I believe in choosing what flatters you, fits your lifestyle, and makes you feel like your most confident self. Style should feel natural, not overdone. And it’s never about the price — it’s about the selection. You can wear something affordable and make it look high-end if the styling is right.
BCL What do you love about doing what you do?
MM I genuinely never feel like I’m working. Whether I’m curating outfits, sourcing a hard-to-find piece or creating content, these are all things I truly enjoy. It’s the perfect mix of creativity, fashion and connection. Every day, I get to build and nurture relationships — with clients, with brands and with those who trust me with their style. This business has pushed me, inspired me and connected me with the most amazing people.
FALL TRENDS, FAVE DESIGNERS AND SOURCED PIECES
• Standout pieces I’ve sourced recently: the Chanel Shopping bag — often referred to as the ‘Kelly’ bag — especially in metallic gold is both timeless and bold, and it has a way of instantly completing any look. The Miu Miu rainbow crochet pouch was a summer favorite — playful, vibrant and full of personality. And this year, Chanel’s flip-flops have had a major moment, proving that even the simplest silhouettes can feel elevated and luxurious when styled right.
• Favorite designers: Chanel and Hermès will always have a special place in my heart — their craftsmanship, heritage and timeless elegance. I also love brands like Prada and Khaite — they bring a modern edge and elevated simplicity that speaks to the way women want to dress today: confident, clean and effortlessly chic.
• Accessories: From metallic golds and silvers to sculptural clutches and chunky belts, it’s about adding impact through small but intentional details. Romantic touches like lace, corset seams, and delicate trims continue to soften and elevate structured silhouettes — bringing in just the right amount of femininity.
• Colors: rich jewel tones paired with luxurious neutrals — think emerald and plum, styled with ivory, taupe and chocolate brown. Wine red isn’t new to fall, but it’s definitely here to stay. This season, it’s more than just a pop of color — it’s being treated as a true wardrobe staple, showing up in everything from outerwear to accessories.
• Tailoring: oversized blazers, boxy coats, wide-leg trousers and clean midi skirts are all making bold yet wearable statements. And I’m especially drawn to the textures we’re seeing — plush shearling, structured faux fur, croc-embossed leather — it’s luxe, dimensional and effortless.
• Layering with intention — investing in timeless staples, playing with rich textures, and letting your personal style speak for itself. That’s the beauty of fashion: when it’s done right, it tells your story without you saying a word.