The MAK Fashion Group helps U.S. and international emerging brands figure out the overwhelming question of “how?”…how to start translating your vision and get to work building a plan of action. From understanding the merchandising fundamentals needed to launch your business to partnering with industry resources to execute your global expansion strategy, The MAK Fashion Group is here to help you successfully navigate the course.
Meet Our Founder
A creative and solution motivated strategist, Melanie Keys brings over 15 years of merchandising and brand development experience across global luxury and mass retail markets. Her extensive category and consumer insights cover apparel and accessories (Women’s, Men’s and Kids) spanning the U.S., EU, MENA, APAC and LATAM regions.
Passionate about working with brands to create the “impossible”, Melanie credits her formative professional years as a buyer in New York City with helping her to develop a love for coaching emerging labels. Working for renown companies such as Macy’s, Saks Fifth Avenue and Coach gave her the inside scoop of what it takes to make it as a brand. In 2014, she ventured to Singapore to work with regional fashion e-commerce start-up Zalora where she led the Women’s and Men’s businesses for Southeast Asia and Hong Kong. While working in Southeast Asia, she witnessed both the rewards and challenges brands faced as they sought to launch trade in new foreign markets. It was also during her time as Head of Designer and Buyer Relations for Singapore Fashion Week she realized many new designers lacked a full understanding of the “business of fashion”. Beyond the glamour of design and sales, brands were neglecting to build competitive merchandising and brand development strategies. The MAK Fashion Group was founded to help emerging U.S. and international brands maneuver the retail landscape.