WHAT DID YOUR MUM TEACH YOU ABOUT STYLE?
I have such fond memories of shopping for clothes with mum when I was a child. I still remember the day she bought a red leather jacket. She looked so cool and stylish and wore it for years. She still has it! Mum taught me that it’s ok to have a unique style, to embrace colour and always wear what feels good.
HOW IS YOUR STYLE SIMILAR OR DIFFERENT TO YOUR MUMS?
It must be similar because we have always shared clothes.
WHAT COMES TO MIND WHEN YOU THINK OF MOTHERHOOD?
Oh so much…. But the word WILD is the first thing that springs to mind. Unconditional love is the next and what a deep privilege it is to be a Mum.
DESCRIBE YOUR IDEAL MOTHER'S DAY
To wake up with a stunning view of the sunrise with my children bringing me a delicious hot coffee and some cuddles. Then they leave me in peace for a while so I can just sit and reflect on how lucky I really am to be a mum of four magnificent kids. Then it will be time for a bit of chaos with more cuddles, pancakes and card giving all whilst still in bed. To top it off a clean kitchen when I get up! Simple pleasures are the best.
HOW HAS YOUR STYLE CHANGED AFTER CHILDREN?
Oh my Lordy has it changed, particularly after having my twins Vera and Frank. I literally did not have the brain capacity or energy to even think about what to wear. Plus my body changed after having children. My Lululemon leggings became my best friend. Comfort and ease are still my top priority these days.
HAS BEING A MUM INFLUENCED YOUR CREATIVE PROCESS?
Being a mum is really, really hard. I would not trade it for the world but you do kind of lose yourself there for a few years. I think I got to a point where I needed to get back that spark and feel alive again. Finding the old me and reinventing a new me was a creative process in itself. Exercising in nature, finding moments of Awe and exploring spirituality were all ways of expanding my creative life.
WHAT DO YOU ENJOY DOING WITH YOUR CHILDREN?
Camping, hiking, beach time. I enjoy it when I can be completely present with them and watch their eyes light up when they experience something new and exciting. But I also love the magic in the mundane. The morning cuddles and tickles, being silly, the nighttime books and chats and scratching their back as they drift off to sleep.
WHAT HAVE YOUR CHILDREN TAUGHT YOU ABOUT YOURSELF?
I have always said that my children have been my greatest teachers! They have taught me the art of surrender and letting go of perfectionism. They have taught me to be patient and just be in the moment. They have also taught me the importance of playfulness and how having fun is just as important for adults too. I now live with an even bigger heart and never shy away from telling someone I love them. Thanks Sylvie.
DO YOUR CHILDREN GIVE YOU STYLE ADVICE?
Oh YES! Especially from my 12 year old Lena! It seems i’m not as cool as I think I am haha!
WHAT IS ON YOUR PENNY & REIBY WISHLIST?
Oh my gosh, the whole shop! Everything is divine!
Photographs taken by Jo Okeefe
Emma wears:
Skirt: Binny Wear
Jumper: World of Nomads
Boots: Merry People
Lena wears:
Jeans: Rollas
Jumper: World of Nomads