INTERVIEW: Afro-Latina Monica Veloz Shares Inspiration Behind Fashion Collection with Amazon

Achieving our favorite #GRWM looks has gotten a whole lot easier, now that three Latina fashion creators have released their personalized fashion collections through Amazon’s The Drop. Yasmin Maya (@beautyybird), Monica Veloz (@monicastylemuse), and Lisa Ramos (@lisaaramos) give us a glimpse into their personal style that bridges their culture, womanhood, and heritage— just in time for Fall. 

Exclusive to Amazon, The Drop is a “trend-focused, street-style inspired fashion destination.” They feature influencer-designed collections that are limited-edition and on trend for the latest brands and styles. 

The three collections span a range of unique styles and trends, from Lisa Ramos’ city chic vibe to Yasmin Maya’s essentials for the cool season ahead. Ramos, whose collection is inspired by the Latinx bombshells from the 90’s describes the theme behind her collection as  “being the best dressed to any event you go to, with simple but fashionable pieces at a great price point.” 

Fortunately, Remezcla got a chance to speak with Afro-Latina creator Monica Veloz herself about this new collection, her personal style, and how her heritage inspires her curated looks of “boss mom on the go!” 

Whether you’re seeking to add bold pieces to your wardrobe, invest in wardrobe essentials, or embrace your inner showstopper, Veloz’s curated collection in The Drop offers versatility while keeping you warm with knit sweaters, stylish boots, and long skirts to match. 

What does personal style mean to you and how has it transferred into this drop?

Personal style means a sense of self-expression with no limits! Personal style to me is anything that makes you feel comfortable whether it’s being dressed up or down. My looks are inspired by the boss mom on the go. When curating these looks, I wanted women to feel empowered while also feeling comfortable in the pieces. My culture celebrates all kinds of bodies and I want my followers to feel the same way.

What is your favorite accessory or garment in your drop? 

I have to say the Dearfoams slippers. I wear them to the supermarket or around the house—they are my new ultimate staple! 

What Latine creators inspire you/you would like to collaborate with? 

I would say my cousin, Christine Cruz (known as @_CallMeChrissy online). Her edginess and sense of style is so timeless, effortless and free! 

How do you incorporate your heritage or culture into your style, especially in a consistently evolving industry? 

I literally EMBODY my heritage. Clothes don’t define me, I define the clothes! So as long as I stay true to myself I will always SERVE! I wanted all women to feel empowered in each bold and elevated piece from my curation.

What has been the best fashion or styling advice that you’ve ever received that you wish others knew about? 

If you love what you are wearing, that’s the only opinion that matters!

 What comes next for you? Any projects to watch out for? 

At the moment, we are in talks about my podcast. I think it’s time to shift gears and do what I’ve always wanted to do, and that’s to tell my story as well as the stories of others. 

Maya Veloz’s collection is now available on Amazon through November 6, 2023.