Finding Her Fit: Melissa’s Journey Through Books and Style
Finding Her Fit: Melissa’s Journey Through Books and Style
Melissa is wearing The Tapered Barrel Jean in Washed Black
Tell us more about who you are and what you do!
I’m a big dabbler. If we’re going really far back, I started out in retail, then music journalism, freelance copywriting, then college English comp. Interwoven into all of that I write short fiction and designed and sold jewelry on my own site and Madewell. I live in Southern California with my husband and our two young kids.
What led you to be an English Professor?
I’ve always been into writing and reading and literature and higher education. (Stay in school as long as you can!) I love helping my students and witnessing their writing improve and their confidence grow. It’s so rewarding, on both ends.
Any advice for balancing your career, content creation and motherhood?
I don’t really know that there’s a secret formula. It’s challenging—some days more than others—but if you’re lucky to have a support system like I do, it makes all the difference.
What is a book that changed your life?
I took a literary journalism class over 20 years ago at UCI after I switched from a bio major to English, and that’s when I read Slouching Toward Bethlehem. I have to credit Didion for changing the course of my college career.
How would you describe your personal style?
I’m not sure how to pin it down. I think I’m still pretty minimal, but I’ve lately been incorporating some pops of color and random textures into my classic silhouettes.
Since Thanksgiving is near, what are you most grateful for?
I’m most grateful for community in my life—from family, to friendships, and in between. I feel much more myself than I have in a while. Chalk it up to being solidly in my 40s, maybe.
What do you love about your Just Black Denim jeans?
I love that they feel structured but so comfortable at the same time, and they’re easy to pair with everything I already own!
Follow @melissasonico on Instagram