Make a cuppa (or pour a wine), sit back and get to know the girls who are all about Frankie & Dandelion.

This week's rep is a lady many Loxton locals will recognise. Mumtrepreneur and boss lady at children's boutique '@ The Bowtique'. Plus she designs and creates a kids clothing range 'Little Vibes'. Plus she runs her own hair salon. PLUS she is a mama to two gorgeous girls. PLUS... I could go on and on about all she achieves. 

A beautiful friend of mine for many years, we have both supported the other's journey and she is my go-to gal to bounce ideas back and forth.  To me she is the "duck swimming across water"; on the surface she is calm, graceful and elegant. Underneath she is kicking furiously, no one has a stronger work ethic than this lady. And yet she is always up for a chat.

Tess x


Name Melanie Albrecht

Age 29

Size 6

What is your occupation? 

I own and run a Children’s Boutique / Hair Salon and in my spare work moments I design, sew and print for my kids clothing range ‘Little Vibes’

What is the dress code for your workplace? 

I like to believe it’s business casual > allowing me to alter between pinstripe dresses with heels to jeans and blazer depending on what my day has in store.

How would you describe your style? 

Super unsure! Let’s go with Modern Monochromatic Boho > is that a thing? Most items in my wardrobe are relaxed cuts and drapey fabrics in black/grey/whites but then there is my jean collection.

What are your go-to wardrobe essentials? 

My high waisted skinny jeans (in any length!!), a slouchy top, ballet flats or tan boots depending on the occasion.

What are your go-to accessories? 

Stud earrings!! My collection is out of control

Summer or Winter? 

Both! Summer for its endless days and winter for fireplaces!

Finish this sentence: I can’t leave the house without…… 

Mimco clutch – all my daily essentials will be found in there

Do you have children? If so, what ages are they? Do they affect your choice of clothing and accessories? 

Yes I have two girls (soon to be 6 and 2 year olds). And yes I accessorize with studs as they are less of a hazard and I select tops that cannot gape too far in case I need to carry the kids or find myself bending to clean mess!

What are your hobbies? 

Simply spending time outside in the sun, gardening, reading, and photography.

What is your favourite thing about yourself? 

My creative mind

What is your favourite way to unwind/treat yourself? 

A large glass of red and catching up on my novels or tv show.

What do you find challenging? 

Making the time and finding the discipline to exercise

Why do you love Frankie & Dandelion? 

Tessa knows fashion and has built a business around catering for women at every stage in the lives. All the pieces I own from F&D have always felt like they were made especially for me and I just love being able to support another Mum and her dreams.

Who inspires you? 

Carrie Bickmore and Zoe Foster Blake; these are my dream women. Both are accomplished, stunning mumma’s who fill their days to the brim and yet always have that carefree smile. However my biggest inspiration is my mum, it’s only now that I am a mum that I can fully appreciate the sacrifices she has made and still makes for not only her kids but for her grandkids also.

What advice do you have to other ladies out there? 

I found this years ago and it always springs to mind in a moment of uncertainness. “Life isn't about finding yourself. Life is about creating yourself.” George Bernard Shaw.  So ladies surround yourself with those who will allow you to flourish, forget about what is expected of us and follow your dreams. (yes, chasing my dreams or creating memories with my kids leaves the washing to wait another day!!)

And finally, what is your favourite piece from our current range?

The Jagger Harem Pants, the fabric suits my colourings, the cut is beyond comfortable and the shirred waist is perfect for keeping everything in its place (whether that’s a tank you tucked in or your beautiful mummy middle)