Maddie has a way of making getting dressed feel effortless, and like play. Our dear friend and local stylist (photographer turned stylist, with a side of prop styling) stopped by the studio to style some of our new fall pieces, and somewhere between a boatneck, a good pair of socks, and a heel, she reminded us why we love making clothes in the first place. We sat down with her to talk fall layering, her all time favorite piece, and what a great set really runs on.

“I started out as a photographer. I realized I was working on jobs where I was styling, creatively directing, and taking the photos. Juggling like that came naturally to me, but as you can imagine, it wasn’t always efficient.

Then I realized I wasn’t really a technical photographer; what I was enjoying was creating an energy, a vibe, for the end result. From there it really just became a refinement toward what was most enticing to me, which was creating looks. I also work in props, and I feel like that came from wearing all those hats in the beginning. 

Growing up, playing dress-up was not an uncommon activity for me. To now have that be the way I make a living feels so full circle. Styling lets me channel the manic bursts of energy and that undeniable urge to express myself through colors, textures, and types."

“Ooh, this one! Eclectic, timeless, intentional.”

“Everywhere! With social media, I can’t help but acknowledge a bit of subconscious influence. Seeing what people are wearing, and how they’re wearing it, all around the world is so inspiring.

I keep inspiration folders on Instagram, like I do for photography and food, but most of my love of looks comes from individual pieces I buy and the curiosity to make them work.”

“Alexa Chung! To me, her style is out of the norm while being fun while being sophisticated. She really does it all.”

“I do have one, and it keeps getting repurposed: a pair of micro knit shorts. I’m such a sucker for texture and structure!”

"Every piece is extremely buildable and flattering on every body type. I really value pieces like that because they leave room to personalize, which I just love in any garment.

These simple boatnecks really blew me away when we were creating looks because of their versatility. We went from a boatneck with athletic shorts, socks, and heels to the same top with trousers, and the two vibes could not be more different! RAT BOI makes pieces for the practical while also creating room for those who want to push the boundaries. I love that!”

“BOATNECK! Say less. Style it with pants or a skirt, with trousers, or with my favorites, jorts and culottes. But in easy speak, a sweater and those cute gingham pants that are magic might be my favorite!”

“Ooh, brown and red! It isn’t necessarily ‘fall,’ but it’s a favorite at the moment. Also green and brown. That’s fall!”

“Chunky sweaters and structured blouses! Long shorts and boots, too!”

“Layer! Tights! Don’t be afraid to throw on that jacket or vest. Texture up! My all-time, semi-seasonal favorite is a good sock with heels. Most days I have a jacket on regardless of the weather, lol!”

“Start with what you feel strongly about. Do you love those pants, or that skirt? Does that top bring out your eyes? It sounds silly, but I think that can really be the foundation of a fit: something you love on yourself, or just love in general, and go from there.

For me, this changes day to day. Creating outfits for ourselves is a form of expression, but our relationship with our bodies is ever-changing too! Some days I love how shorts look on me, and other days, when I’m feeling less confident, I’ll opt for the tried-and-true denim.”

“Sometimes the job demands that you step out of your personal style and channel something that maybe isn’t so comfy for you. I’ve learned the importance of stepping outside my own style and creative comfort zone, and I think there’s a beautiful lesson in that.

It’s taught me to be adaptable, to let go of my own preferences, and to approach unfamiliar creative directions with curiosity rather than judgment. Ultimately, styling isn’t always about what I love. It’s about understanding someone else’s vision and bringing it to life.”

“Communication is a big one in what we do. You can tell when communication is strong: everyone is in a flow state, job definitions are clear, and people feel confident that their teammates respect the weight they’re pulling. When it isn’t clear, it can get really messy, and feelings can get hurt. Creatives are sensitive! I’ve had to practice the art of letting go and not taking things personally.

Some shoot days really feel like a push, and people burn out; I’ve been that person too. On every shoot, I try my best to smile, make people laugh, and consider myself lucky to be part of a project with other humans, making a dream come alive. It’s really all about perspective and attitude.”