For the first blog of the year I decided to do something different. I usually walk around campus looking for outfits that catch my eye. But with the weather conditions I am finding a lot more Uggs and pea coats than anything else. So I chose to highlight some people I see on a regular basis who dress impeccably well — no matter what the weather is outside.

For this week’s blog I chose Shikha Dilawri. She is a third-year international relations student who is in my French class. Every day I’ve seen her since the beginning of this school year I’m always impressed by her vintage-inspired outfits and by the way she throws on oversized clothing.

Born in Ottawa, this shoe lover has an enviable wardrobe and an amazing shoe collection.

I wanted to know a little bit more about her, her background and her inspirations. So I asked her a few questions.

Tell us a little bit about yourself.
I grew up in Ottawa and I like lots of things like a good satire, music from the 1980s, driving with the windows down, history, HBO and a warm cup of coffee.

What inspires the way you dress? Do you have any influences?
Travelling, other cultures and the way people used to dress.

What is the thing you notice first in someone’s outfit?
Shoes, which may have been inspired by seeing just a few too many pairs of Uggs.

What item can’t you live without?
Clothes that are way too big for my body.

Do you have any fashion rules?
To wear at least one thing that was from another decade.

What is your favorite place to shop?
When I can get to a Steven Alan or Opening Ceremony they always pleasantly surprise me, but I usually end up in a barrage of second hand stores and stores in obscure alleyways.

If someone asked for fashion advice from you what would you say?
Don’t wear something if you know at least five people who have the same thing.

What is your next ‘must have’ item?
A classic round-faced men’s watch. Mine stopped working ages ago and I’ve been incessantly late for class since.

What is your favorite designer/brand?
Complex Geometries based out of Montréal is great, you can make anything with their clothes.

Your typical Saturday night:
When I’m not writing papers, anything that involves good people, good music, good conversations and wine.