Influencer Mishael Arif takes us inside her closet
My personal style in three words
I would say my personal style described in three words is definitely fusion, colorful and traditional.
My top 5 wardrobe essentials
1. A black crop top. If you find one with a low back and neck it can double up as the perfect sari blouse!
2. A casual cotton saree. A saree is my favorite thing to wear to any event. Lunches, dinners, weddings, birthdays. They flatter literally every body type and you just can’t go wrong.
3. Jeans. My favorites are high-waisted, mom jeans in a dark blue wash.
4. A white cotton gharara. In the summer, pair this with literally any shirt you have and watch your outfit go from casual to smart casual in minutes!
5. A cool denim jacket. It’s the perfect accessory for autumn or winter. An oversized vintage one will work with any outfit — even shalwar kameez!
My top 5 shoe essentials
1. Comfortable white trainers are my number one essential. I love my Nike Cortezs. They go with everything. I also have my eye on some Air Force 1’s which I might get next.
2. A comfortable pair of block heels. Trust me, these will be the ones you reach for the most during shaadi season.
3. A pair of fun khussas. My faves are the handmade Sindhi ones from Chauhan Jutti House. They are made by local artists. I have them in almost every color!
4. Pointed flats or loafers smarten up any outfit whether it’s desi or western.
5. Colorful stilettos. They’re not the most comfortable but they make great statement accessories for dinners and nights out.
My favourite vintage item
I’m not sure if it classifies as vintage as I’m not entirely sure how old it is BUT it has to be my oversized denim jacket. I love it because of the fit but also because of the story behind how I got it. I was in Istanbul for an exchange program at university and I went out with a bunch of friends wearing my Zara denim jacket. When it was time to leave I went to the side to get my jacket and turned out some other girl had taken it! She left me hers (by accident or on purpose, we will never know) but I love the vintage cut of it and it’s much more me!
My most prized possession
This has to be my Grandma’s heirloom jewelry. Since I have a sister I don’t know which pieces I will get to keep but wearing it has been an absolute joy and it will always hold a special place in my heart.
