Curating show-stopping looks for celebrities on a daily basis, including former Miss World Manushi Chhillar, Sheefa J Gilani is always on-the-move, owing to her profession as a celebrity stylist. Known for her effortless sense of style, the lifestyle influencer is also a skincare aficionado. She talks to Travel + Leisure India & South Asia about the places that inspire her and her travel must-haves. By Bayar Jain
T+L India: How would you define your style?
Sheefa J Gilani: Effortless.
T+L India: You graduated from London College of Fashion. What were some of your most memorable moments from your time in London?
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Sheefa J Gilani: If I had to pick one, it would be the trip we took to Paris for Paris Fashion Week. There’s nothing more liberating than being around path-breaking fashion.
T+L India: What were some hidden gems of London that you discovered during your time there?
Sheefa J Gilani: It’s got to be Brick Lane. It’s everything and nothing you’d imagine it to be. It is rich in culture and a paradise for bargain hunters. Besides, what’s not to love about a good vintage buy?
T+L India: Which destinations do you think have influenced your style? How so?
Sheefa J Gilani: I have lived in London for over five years of my life and I think pre-dominantly my fashion has a lot of influence from the city. My love for the colour black, faux leather, and sneakers to kill—all come from a comfort place. Other than that, I think I pick up a lot of street -style from the Americans because they are effortless and comfortable.
T+L India: What cities do you consider the fashion capital of the world and why?
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Sheefa J Gilani: Apart from the already established fashion capitals of the world, I feel some of the others that can join the list are: Berlin, because it get more black and chic than this; Japan, for their spin-off style; and Copenhagen, for their minimalism and sustainability.
T+L India: Five must-haves in your travel bag?
Sheefa J Gilani: Skincare, iPad, sunglasses, outerwear—I’m always a little too cold!, and a bottle of water.
T+L India: Your go-to travel outfit?
Sheefa J Gilani: Sweats and sneakers
T+L India: Tell us about some of your most memorable vacations.
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Sheefa J Gilani: My most memorable holiday has got to be to the Orlando when I was six. I went on a road trip from New York to Orlando and spent two full days at Disneyland. It was my dream come true! Younger me is still doing a happy dance at the thought of that trip.
An impromptu trip to Mykonos for my 25th birthday was also memorable. Although a lot of that trip is a blur, I can tell I had the best time!
T+L India: One holiday destination that you never tire of and why?
Sheefa J Gilani: Goa. It’ll be always home!
T+L India: A bucket list destination?
Sheefa J Gilani: Guatemala.
T+L India: Any tips for solo female travellers?
Sheefa J Gilani: Just do it! Trust yourself to enjoy your own company.
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