Style Spotlight: Minari Karunatilake

Minari Karunatilake is a senior at Tufts who sat down to talk about London street style, her new job as a stylist for Club Monaco and her decision to go into fashion.

Parker Selman (PS): How would you describe your personal style?

Minari Karunatilake (MK): It’s definitely changed a lot since I got here. It used to be super bohemian, but I think now my style has gotten a little bit more sophisticated and more pared down. I used to wear a lot of jewelry, prints and color, but now it’s more neutral and the shapes got a little more exaggerated.

PS: What inspired this change?

MK: I think it changed when I came back from London that’s when my style got a little more … I hesitate saying "edgy," but I can’t think of another word. I was really inspired by the way people in London never look bad. Every time they step out their door it’s like they're putting on a show for everyone else. Being on a college campus, a lot of people don’t put that much thought into their clothing because there are so many other things to be worried about, but I really liked that in London people made the time for it.

PS: Are you interested in going into fashion?

MK: I had a mini epiphany my junior year because I was going to law school to try to do defense consulting or some sort of government work. But I realized I would be happy doing it, but I wouldn’t be the happiest. I’m currently looking at buying and stylist jobs in New York, and I’m looking at brands that have the capacity to transfer me to London or abroad.

PS: How do you get up the energy to put effort into your daily clothes?

MK: For me the effort of putting on a sweatshirt and sweatpants is the same as putting on what I’m wearing. I almost associate fashion with cooking. I know there are certain combinations that go well together. It takes practice, but once you start getting used to it, it becomes part of your daily routine. I personally really enjoy getting dressed in the morning period. I like the thoughtfulness of it. I think the way you dress really does impact the way you carry yourself and the way other people perceive you.

PS: Are you currently working in fashion?

MK: I am working at Club Monaco as a head stylist. I just got the job recently. It’s in the Prudential Center. They’re basically giving me a trial period right now, and if I do well as the head stylist here in Boston, they’re going to move me to New York where they are headquartered, and then I can do styling for catalogues and look books.