Monika Shrestha is a model and student of fashion design. For her first-ever official shoot, the 21-year-old collaborated with DS Collections. Since then, she has worked with many professional photographers and brands such as Lane 88, One Tree Stop, Nepacraft, Anthropose, Lakhey Nepal, Mheecha, Yuresha, and AP Couture to name a few. 

As she is currently pursuing fashion design, Shrestha plans to focus on it and not be distracted by the modeling assignments that come her way, and only take up what she can. But it helps that modeling and fashion design are interrelated thus making it easy for her to juggle both.  

“Designing appeals to my creative side whereas modeling gives me an adrenaline rush that makes me feel good about myself,” says Shrestha adding that she is adamant not to let modeling affect her college life because she feels a good education is a must.

Thus, Shrestha makes sure she only says okay to photo shoots when there is not much that needs her attention at college. “For now, it’s going great,” she says. 

“Most shoots are long and what goes on the behind the scene is not as glorious as the final result makes it out to be. When I get home after a really long shoot, I’m really tired,” she says adding that it’s all worth it though because seeing the results of the hard work makes her really happy and content.  

Shrestha is also positive that she has a lot of scope in the industry as she’s only starting out and the industry is slowly starting to flourish at the same time. “There are many people who are very creative and open to ideas. People are willing to collaborate for good quality work, it’s not about being a one-person army anymore and that’s great,” she says.

“With so many new faces and amazing photographers, designers and makeup artists, I think the industry is at a better place now and I really feel the future is bright.”

Here she talks to The Week about her style preferences and runs us through the trends and designers she likes as well as how she takes care of herself. 

What’s your go-to outfit?
You can never go wrong with a basic t-shirt or crop top and mom jeans. You can pair it with boots or stilettos and the overall look is comfy and chic at the same time. 

Is there a style that you prefer?
80s was the decade of bold style silhouettes and colors with permed hair. From leather to oversized blazers, the staples of the 80s are all back in fashion now and I’m happy it is so. I think the 80s fashion moments are really worth reliving. Princess Diana is my idol for the 80s fashion trend. 
The 80s was also the best decade for fashion. Men’s suits were especially nice. Suits in neutral colors were paired with skinny ties. For casual attire, men would generally pair graphic-print button-downs with slacks. This was a go-to ensemble that was appropriate almost anywhere. Other popular pieces in menswear included pleated trousers, bomber jackets, preppy plaids, polo shirts, and turtlenecks. Men’s trousers and blazers were tapered in the way that they’re often worn today. 

Which is a fashion trend that you have been grateful for?
I’m really glad that animal prints and tartans are back in style. My personal favorite is the snake print. It just elevates anything to make it look more elegant. Also, puffer shoulder tops and dresses just step up your fashion game. 

And a fashion trend that you wish would go away?
Mesh side panel jeans looks like you threw a curtain at yourself and the caged trousers, I think you should just buy to these to keep it in a cage, like the name suggests, because no one is going to wear that. Also, I’m not a big fan of low rise jeans.
 
Who is in your favorite designer and stylist?
Alexander McQueen is my favorite designer as his dramatic designs and fashion shows are said to be raw and powerful and the precision in tailoring and craftsmanship is simply unlike anything else. Likewise, I like Christina Ehrlich and agree on her saying that “dressing for women should be effortless and easy not stressful” and her style always reflects those words. 

How would you describe your style statement? 
I would say it is casual, comfortable, simple, approachable, and easy. Comfort is very important to me when I’m getting dressed. Simple lines and designs are my preferred choices. Sometimes I also love feminine details such as bows, ruffles, pleats and laces. 

Do you like accessorizing  and what can’t you do without?
I think accessories can make or break an outfit. I always accessorize with a watch and a pair of decent studs on the ears. I also like statement necklaces. I’m a bag person too. I usually carry a cross body bag but I like shoulder bags too. 

Are you brand conscious?  Where do you usually shop?
Not really, I like clothes that make me feel comfortable. I’m sensitive to certain materials so I just make sure the clothes I buy are comfortable and nice and that the fabrics don’t scratch my skin. I usually get my clothes from DS collection and Lane 88. But I also love street shopping and indulge in quite a bit of online shopping too. 

How do you keep your hair and skin healthy? 
I don’t have a specific regimen. But I use a gel based cleanser, sunscreen and moisturizer on a regular basis. I feel it doesn’t matter if you want to go makeup free or whole glam, you have to make sure you always put on some sunscreen. Keeping your hair hydrated and nourished is the best way to have strong hair. I use hair oil an hour before showering and condition it after washing. Also, eating the right food and drinking plenty of water are important to keep both your skin and hair healthy.

 
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