Mona Parikh Embraces a Sleek, Professional Style in Wilmington
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Mona Parikh. Photos by Joe Del Tufo
Wilmington council chief of staff and city resident Mona Parikh moves from day to night with easy elegance.
Define your style:
I go for a sleek, comfortable and professional look with a bit of an edge. I enjoy outfits and styles that easily transition from the office to a night out with friends or co-workers.
Color combos:
My favorite color combinations typically involve black, which suits me. I often wear a black professional skirt with a bold top. But lately I’ve been experimenting with earthy and ivory palettes. But I’ve also been loving the satin trends, especially the return of an emerald-green color.
Favorite fashion era:
Fashion in India in the ’70s was out of this world. I’ve always gravitated toward sari patterns and weights. My mom and dad, in old photographs, are slaying Indian fashion.
Prints vs. solids:
In U.S. fashions, I’m more comfortable with solids. But in Indian fashions, I love unique patterns and textures—the satin and bead-work. It’s the juxtaposition of textures that can make an outfit come together. I’ve worn jeans, a tank top and a scarf from one of my Indian outfits.
Signature bling:
Any ring with a large gemstone, whether a gold or silver setting—big, gorgeous sparkling stones that stand out and glam up almost any outfit. And I love Indian bracelets—bangles, cuffs. I have a pretty vast collection.
302 must-shops:
Morgan’s has been my go-to for over a decade. It’s incredible to watch Martha Morgan work with colors, layers, textures and accessories. See her if you want to feel like a spoiled princess with a dedicated personal stylist. …Indigo Octopus in Fenwick Island [is] phenomenal and has saved me several times in a summer dress pinch. Their owners and their staff are incredible.
Style icon:
A British actress named Marisa Abela is in Industry, an HBO series. Her fashion sense is impeccable. Whoever styled her was spot-on. Rekha is the classic Bollywood icon. And Zendaya, as well. She is so fun and has a fresh, edgy look. I follow her on Instagram.
Cringe-worthy fashion choices:
If you’re comfortable and feel good in what you wear, more power to you.
Extra polish:
I go to The Zen Nail in University Plaza in Newark. I’ve been going for nearly 20 years and get consistently great manicures and pedicures.
You never leave home without:
A good red lipstick.
The one that got away:
I was on a girls weekend in Rehoboth, and one of my girlfriends didn’t have anything warm to wear. I gave her my favorite Starboard sweatshirt—you never find the same design twice, so get it while you can. She loved it so much I never asked for it back.
If money were no object:
I’d buy everyone clothes that would make them feel comfortable and happy.
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