Fashion stylist Melville Sy is used to working behind the scenes, carefully curating looks for some of the country's biggest stars.
But this year, the spotlight turns to him after being named one of Preview.ph's Best Dressed 2026 awardees.
For Mel, who also heads styling agency Studio.24.C, the recognition is both unexpected and meaningful.
While fashion has long been a major part of his personal and professional life, he shares that he never dresses with the goal of attracting attention.
"I was really happy and grateful," he tells PEP.ph (Philippine Entertainment Portal) in an exclusive interview.
"Because fashion has always been such a big part of my life and work, but I've never really dressed with the intention of being noticed.
"Being recognized by Preview for my personal style feels very special."
The recognition carries an even deeper significance considering the nature of his work.
"Professionally, I spend most of my time thinking about how other people look, so it's nice to be recognized for my own point of view as well," he adds.
MELVILLE SY ON STYLING STARS AND DEFINING HIS PERSONAL STYLE
When asked to describe his personal style in just three words, Mel's answer is straightforward: "Comfortable, clean, and unexpected."
His fashion choices are shaped by a wide range of influences, many of which come from everyday experiences.
"I get inspired by things I see every day. When I travel, people, art, and different designers. I just take what I like from all of that and make it my own."
As someone deeply immersed in the industry, Mel is also encouraged by the continued rise of Filipino fashion on both local and international platforms.
"It makes me happy to see Filipino designers getting the recognition they deserve, and I'm proud to see Philippine fashion continue to grow," he says.
Despite having a distinct personal aesthetic, Mel emphasizes that styling clients is never about imposing his own taste on them.
Over the years, he has worked with an impressive roster of celebrities, among them Marian Rivera, Kyline Alcantara, and Judy Ann Santos.
According to Mel, understanding a client's individuality remains at the core of his process.
"I always start with the client and understanding the client's lifestyle, body type, personality, and what they're comfortable wearing.
"As a stylist, I bring my own perspective and ideas, but it's never about making them dress like me.
"It's about knowing what works for them, elevating their personal style, and making them feel like the best version of themselves."
That collaborative approach is something Marian herself appreciates.
Speaking about her long-time stylist, the actress praises Mel's openness to ideas and commitment to continuous learning.
"Siguro being transparent to each other, tapos siguro maganda na nagkakaintindihan kami sa mga bagay na gusto kong gawin. At nandiyan siya to support.
"At ang maganda kasi kay Mel, nakikinig siya. Pag may suggestion talaga ako, talagang nakikinig siya.
"Tinitignan ko siya, ano siya... hindi siya nauubusan na mag-aral ng mga bagay-bagay, para mas matuto siya, na parang hindi siya nakukuntento na, 'This is the trend, ito yung gagawin natin.'
"Nakakabilib kasi sa galing niyang iyan, nag-aaral pa siya para matuto, para... hindi lang siguro sa akin, para sa lahat ng alaga niya."
Finding your personal style
While being included on a prestigious best-dressed list could easily create pressure to constantly outdo previous looks, Mel sees fashion differently.
"I don't really see it as pressure. For me, fashion is about having fun, trying new things, and staying true to your personal style."
For those still figuring out their own fashion identity, his advice is simple and relatable.
"Just try different things and see what works for you. As long as you're comfortable and you feel good in what you're wearing, it will naturally look good on you."
And as the stylist behind some of the country's most fashionable celebrities, Mel leaves aspiring style enthusiasts with one final reminder: "Always have fun dressing up."
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