Street Style : Sonali Silva 

Sonali’s style mantra is ‘Quality over Quantity’ and her personal style is a true testament to it. “To me it’s all about elegance and comfort. If you’re not comfortable, you’re not going to be confident. I just always believe in presenting my best self.” 
After gracing the runway at CFW last month, Sonali takes us through some of her favourite outfits. 

LOOK 1 : 

This is something I would probably wear on a night out. I love the length and shape of the dress. I chose to pair it with a necklace that has a very simple design and nude heels but you could also pair it with a more chunky statement necklace. You just can’t go wrong with this combo especially you don’t feel like being creative with your outfits. 

LOOK 2 : 

I'd wear this if I’m just out and about during day. I'd throw on a sweater and easily wear it to university as well. 

LOOK 3 : 

My outfit if I was out meeting friends or if I'm feeling particularly dressy. Another one of my daytime favourites are linen pants, they’re just so comfortable! 

I threw on the scarf because I felt like the white and beige was a just little boring without it. This yellow in small doses, looks really great on us brown girls. 

Style Role Model : I wouldn’t say I have a single style role model , but my style is greatly influenced by the 70’s. I love the bohemian maxi dresses and flared pants, as well as the more structured dresses and pencil skirts. That about sums up my closet! I am both ends of the spectrum when it comes to my personal style, I’d be Grace Kelly by day and transform to Stevie Nicks by night. 

Favourite Colours to Pair : I stick to the basics of black, white and nude but I think that the colours turquoise , coral and mauves compliment women of my complexion really well. 

Go To Outfit : The little black dress. I just feel like it’s the most versatile piece of clothing you could have. I dress it up or dress it down when I see fit. 

Style Must Have’s? 

- High waists are very flattering for me and the midi or pencil skirt length makes my legs look longer. 

- Maxi’s for lazy days, whether it be playsuits of dresses, it just looks effortlessly glamorous paired with the right accessories. 

- Shoes are so important! I don’t pair slippers with anything, yes I know how comfortable it is, but I think white chucks on casual days or even a good pair of sandals completes a look. 

Style Tip : You have to know the shape of your body and dress accordingly. 

I’m not afraid to be experimental with how I dress, my style is definitely a reflection of my personality. I think your clothes only speak so minimally, it comes down to how you carry yourself. I’ve learned that when I actively try not to have negative thoughts, try to enjoy the day and decide to give my 100% to whatever it is I’m doing , those are the days I feel the most beautiful, then it doesn’t really matter what I’m wearing. Your style is an expression of yourself, even if everybody in the room thinks it’s bizarre, just own it. 

It was just as absurd for women to wear pants back in the day and today, aren’t we all glad Katharine Hepburn didn’t think so and made trousers on women acceptable?  As long as you think its stunning on you, wear it. 

By Panchali Illankoon