Photograph by Ben Rollins
By day, Sheyda Mehrara works for Ponce City Market. By night, she’s building her name as a painter in the Atlanta gallery scene. Mehrara attributes her self-assured sense of style to growing up Persian in Birmingham, Alabama. Introspective by nature, she used her polished wardrobe to express her unique identity.
Age 28
Neighborhood Castleberry Hill
Subtle style I love details like a striking slit in a midi-skirt or big balloon sleeves on a sweater. I speak more in shape than color. You won’t catch me in flats unless it’s a pair of Gucci lug-sole loafers.
My look Clean. Sophisticated. Feminine. These words help me avoid being seduced by anything too trendy and stay true to myself.
Favorite designer For day-to-day, Amy Smilovic of Tibi. When I get dressed up, though, there is something satisfying about putting on a tea-length dress with a cinched waist reminiscent of Audrey Hepburn.
Photograph by Ben Rollins
Rule breaker I’m five feet tall and refuse to follow fashion “rules” for short people.
Role models Ashley Olsen, Pamela Shamshiri (interior designer), Alisa Barry (culinary entrepreneur), Anna Walker Skillman (gallerist). They embrace their lives with grace and are always open to discovery.
Key test Does this outfit put a smile on my face when I look in the mirror?
Quote me I own, like, two pairs of leggings. You don’t have to wear leggings to be comfortable.
This article appears in our February 2020 issue.
