Cover Shireena Shroff Manchharam tells us how her mother Nirvan has inspired her to be bold when dressing up, and why she’s eyeing a certain saree in her mum’s wardrobe (Photo: Tatler Singapore)
Shireena Shroff Manchharam tells us how her mother Nirvan has inspired her to be bold when dressing up, and why she’s eyeing a certain saree in her mum’s wardrobe (Photo: Tatler Singapore)
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When it comes to getting dressed, some mothers do know best. In honour of Mother’s Day 2023, we feature some fashionable stars in Singapore who agree with that sentiment and find out what style lessons their mums have taught them
In Shireena Shroff Manchharam’s wardrobe, sarees hold a special meaning. According to the life coach and founder of Getting to Happy, traditional Indian costumes “truly showcase who I am and where I come from.” Those elaborately crafted designs are what she usually turns to when she has a gala to attend.
That’s just one of the many style habits that Shireena has picked up from her mother, Nirvan Shroff. Over the years, her mother has also opened her eyes to the power of heels, and nudged her into exploring colours when it comes to dressing up. It is perhaps with all these style lessons in mind that Shireena showed up to the Tatler Ball last year wearing a bold red gown by Indian designer Mahima Mahajan.
Nirvan, too, has been inspired to go beyond her sartorial comfort zone thanks to her daughter. “Shireena constantly makes me think outside the box, which I sometimes find hard to do!” she shares.
Below, both mother and daughter tell us more about their enviable style synergy, and what they’re eyeing from each other’s closets.
Read more: Why Elizabeth Heah and Caroline Low-Heah love planning their outfits together
Above Nirvan Shroff (Photo: Shireena Shroff Manchharam)
Above Shireena Shroff Manchharam (Photo: Shireena Shroff Manchharam)
Nirvan Shroff (Photo: Shireena Shroff Manchharam)
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Shireena, how would you describe your style?
Shireena: My style is quite classic. I am not overly eclectic or adventurous with my style and I prefer well-fitted, timeless pieces.
How has your style changed over time?
Shireena: In my late twenties and early thirties, I wore lots of jackets, capes and high block heels. I loved that dramatic, bold look. As I approached 40, my style shifted to softer colours and more feminine dresses.
Do you have a fond fashion memory of your mother from your childhood?
Shireena: As I was growing up, my mother was famous for her long, bright polished nails! She always had her nails and hair done, and she would wear big, oversized sunglasses. She also loved fuchsia—it was her favourite colour. Whenever the dress code is formal, my mother’s go-to outfits are always traditional Indian costumes and sarees. She believes they are the most formal and beautiful attire. Likewise, for formal occasions, I tend to gravitate towards Indian wear or even Indian-inspired looks that truly showcase who I am and where I come from.
What style advice has your mother given you that has stuck with you?
Shireena: My mum’s style advice was to always wear heels! She always said women needed to look presentable and wearing high heels was the way to do it. She also often told me to incorporate more colours into my wardrobe. After many years, I have finally listened to her.
Above Nirvan Shroff and Shireena Shroff Manchharam (Photo: Shireena Shroff Manchharam)
Nirvan Shroff and Shireena Shroff Manchharam (Photo: Shireena Shroff Manchharam)
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When you go to events with your mother, do you two sometimes try to match your outfits or plan them together?
Shireena: When we go to events together, we don’t try and match our outfits as our styles are quite different. But she and I definitely rely on each other’s opinions. I know my mother will always tell me exactly what she thinks and I value that.
What is your favourite style item that your mother has bought for you?
Shireena: My favourite thing my mother has given me are my Parsi torans, which are decorative pieces made of multicoloured beads that are placed over doors in a home. The toran in my home first came from my great-grandmother’s home. It was also used in my granny’s and mother’s homes before coming to mine.
What is something that you want from your mother’s closet?
Shireena: I would love to have my great-grandmother’s gold and silver threaded saree. She had it made for a dinner that she attended when Queen Elizabeth II visited Sri Lanka after her coronation.
Nirvan, how has Shireena inspired your style?
Nirvan: Shireena constantly makes me think outside the box, which I sometimes find hard to do! But over the years, I have been more adventurous. I have explored more styles that she particularly thinks will suit me. Previously, I never carried any small bags and always preferred large, oversized totes. I have gradually moved on to smaller bags and even crossbody bags when I travel thanks to her.
What is something that you want from Shireena’s closet?
Nirvan: I would love to take her House of Sheens bags, which she used to design for her own brand. They are practical, beautiful, and even more special to me because they are her creations.
Pameyla Cambe is the Assistant Digital Editor of Tatler Singapore. She handles the Fashion section of the website, where she reports on trends, the hottest fashion launches and what your favourite Asian celebrities are wearing.
