Styled for the Season: A Conversation with Laila Maali at The Mall at Millenia
By Maha Chaudhry
When it comes to personal style, everyone has it, we just express it differently. As trends evolve and seasons shift, so do the colors, textures, and moods that define what we wear. What makes each season exciting is not just what’s “in,” but how those elements can be reinterpreted to feel personal.
And the best part? You don’t have to keep up with every runway or fashion column to get it right. Sometimes, all it takes is the right stylist to bring your vision to life.
I recently spent time with personal stylist Laila Maali at the Styling Suite inside The Mall at Millenia, From Zimmermann to Saint Laurent, we explored the standout trends transitioning us from spring into summer and the experience of being styled one-on-one. It was, admittedly, hard not to want everything in the suite – especially the Zimmermann luna lace lantern dress (pictured on the right).
Below, Laila shares her approach to styling, what’s trending this season, and why personal styling is for everyone.
Maha: Let’s start with the experience. How does a personal styling session come together at the suite?
Laila: Every client begins by filling out a profile, which gives me insight into their style, preferences, and what they’re looking for. From there, I stay in touch leading up to the appointment, checking in about a week before and again the day prior. That way, I can curate a selection that feels aligned with their vision.
Maha: So, everything is tailored? Or are there seasonal collections already available in the suite?
Laila: Every session is fully customized. No two clients are the same, and that’s what makes this so exciting. I get to work with so many different personalities, and you can see the shift in confidence immediately – the moment they step out in an outfit that feels like them.
Maha: What trends are you seeing right now as we move from spring into summer?
Laila: We’re seeing a lot of pastel tones and vibrant colors, which are perfect for this time of year. Denim will always be a staple, it never goes out of style. Polka dots are trending again, and interestingly, jelly shoes are making a comeback.
Maha: What are some of your personal favorites this season?
Laila: An oversized blazer is always one of my top picks. It’s such a versatile piece, you can throw it over anything and instantly elevate the look. I also love incorporating a pop of color. It adds personality without feeling overwhelming.
Maha: What are three timeless pieces every woman should have in her closet?
Laila: A well-fitted blazer, a classic black dress, either midi or maxi, and a great pair of denim. Those pieces can take you anywhere, whether you’re dressing them down with sneakers or elevating them with heels.
Maha: Who is personal styling really for?
Laila: It’s for everyone. I’m here to help people step outside of their comfort zone. A lot of people tend to play it safe with fashion, but style is really about confidence. When you walk into a room, your outfit should speak before you do. No matter where you’re going, you should always feel put together.
Maha: What drives you most in your role as a stylist?
Laila: My goal is to make sure all of my clients leave the suite feeling good about themselves. I love to see them leave happier than they walked in. Over time, I’ve built real relationships with my clients. I appreciate every single one of them. Everyone has their own story, and I get to be a small part of that by helping them look and feel their best.
To book a session with Laila, or another personal stylist at The Mall at Millenia you can reach out to Laila directly through her Instagram at @lailamaali, or you can visit mallatmillenia.com, navigate the Styling tab, and fill out a short profile. From there, they will get your session scheduled. Happy shopping!
