A sophisticated eye for design and an emboldened ethos set this distinctive aesthete apart from the rest. Hailing from the world’s number one fashion magazine, ELLE, arrives Shilpa Prabhakar Nadella – a trend expert.

Tell me a little about your journey to becoming and flourishing as one of ELLE’s top editors?

I always knew I wanted to work in magazines so my journey began during my summers in college. I was fortunate enough to have internships at Cosmo, Vogue and InStyle. My internship at InStyle landed me a full time position as a Fashion Assistant at the magazine and eventually a promotion to Assistant Fashion Editor. From there, I moved to ELLE as the Associate Market Editor and have since gone on to my current position as Market Editor.

What do you find most invigorating about your work?

The people I work with and the designers I see on a daily basis inspire me. I feel so fortunate to work in an industry filled with so much creativity and talent. I love showing our readers affordable ways to adapt runway themes.

What has been a defining moment that helped shape your career?

I don’t think there is one moment that has shaped my career. I’ve learned by mistake and also by those around me. Each boss, coworker or designer I’ve crossed paths with has taught me something memorable. The industry is continuously changing and it’s important to be adaptable.

What advice would you give to yourself five years ago?

Embrace who you are and surround yourself with people who have similar goals and values as you do.

What keeps you motivated and inspired?

I love discovering new talent. It’s an incredible experience to have the opportunity see a young designer go from showing their first collection in their apartment to a runway show on the big stage during fashion week. I also love the stories and inspiration behind each collection I see.

What’s your current state of mind?

Motivated.

How would you define your sense of style?

My style is pretty minimalist. I stick to neutral colors (black, white, grey, navy) and try to be comfortable in what I am wearing. I spend tons of time running around the city on market appointments so I try to be practical in my wardrobe. I always buy a few statement pieces each season that pair well with basics I already own. I’m a firm believer that it’s important to work with the items you own and add bits here and there.

Get to know one of ELLE‘s premier luminaries a little better by checking out her Instagram!

Photo Credit Dustin Aksland