We shine our spotlight on this week's style maven Nandipha Sekeleni, a medical doctor, mother, wife and rising fashion star
Nandipha Sekeleni is somewhat of a modern day shape shifter.
The 26-year-old spends more than half of her day in untailored pastel overalls as she tends to people’s medical needs. But as soon as she knocks off, the second-year medical resident at Edenvale General Hospital transforms into a runway goddess.
“If my colleagues were to see my social media accounts they’d be surprised,” she says followed by a slight giggle. Sekeleni, who has her eyes set on becoming a surgeon, says she’s always loved fashion, but had to scale down on the razzmatazz because of her profession.
“The medical field is a highly professional and conservative environment, so I stick as closely to the dress code.” Not only is the Wits University graduate, wife and mom of one making waves in the medical field, she’s also a social media fashion influencer with almost twenty thousand followers.
Sekeleni has garnered a strong following from her regular posts that feature her in well styled outfits. Whether it’s high-waisted pants, crop tops, flared skirts, torn jeans or Timberland boots, Sekeleni always adds a fresh spin to popular trends – sans a stylist or a six-person glam squad.
“I draw inspiration from blogs, social media and magazines like Elle, Destiny and Vogue.” Although Sekeleni is modest about her popularity, her thousands of followers on Instagram speak volumes about her eye for fashion.
Here’s a look into what guides her fashion choices:
Who is your fashion icon?
Victoria Beckham. I love the way she carries herself. Her style is elegant and classic. Locally, I love Noni Gasa.
What are the fashion musts, that every woman should own?
A simple black dress because you can style it up for an evening event and dress it down for the daytime.
A crisp white shirt – these are sometimes difficult to find but they are versatile and work with a lot of fashion items.
A durable handbag – don’t focus too much on the brand but rather whether the bag is strong and solid.
A classic pair of heels.
What’s more important: a great bag or a great pair of shoes?
Because of the work I do I would have to say great shoes. I am constantly on my feet at work, so I need make sure my feet are well taken care of.
On a night out on the town, if you had to choose between having great hair or great make-up. What would it be?
Oh gosh, that’s a bit difficult. But I’d have to say great hair and I’d just have to rely on the grace of God on the day that my skin is good.
Biggest fashion no, no?
Colour blocking — that mixture of various bright colours can become hard on the eye.
Your all time favourite style tip?
Identify your body type. Once that’s out the way, find outfits that work best with your shape. Don’t focus on brands, but the fit rather. You’ll never go wrong with tailored clothes.
Picture Credit: Instagram
Picture Credit: Instagram
Picture Credit: Instagram
Picture Credit: Instagram
