Mischmash Stylish Mama {November}

Richie Ortega-Torres, makes stunning, whimsical bridal wear while effortlessly raising two beautiful girls with husband, Itong. She keeps a gorgeous well-lived home that is evident of a happy marriage, an extensively-travelled couple, and a young endearing tight-knit family.

The family's broad interests spawned into a myriad of books spied all over the place.

We asked Richie to bring out her favorite things and one of the first things she unearthed was this intricately beaded silk puse.

Even Gaudi's gecko covets Richie's Miu Miu rope leather sandals.

Marni dress, Paul Smith court heels, and a hat from milliner, Carmina de Dios.

Her black Marni sandals towers over Hogwart's castle.

Artifacts from various travels adorned with her favorite necklaces.

(L) Much loved medallion charms. (R) A Super Award for rocking the world of fashion.

(L)The family's trying their green thumbs and so far so good as you can see with this thriving basil. (R) Interesting pieces that are actually functional are spotted here and there.

Richie's most precious gems: Luccia, 3y.o. and Oliva, 5y.o.

Quirky dolls at the girls' bedroom.

Olivia and Luccia played hostesses to my little assistant.

Describe your personal style.

Always relaxed, minimalist/simple/sophisticate but bohemian and free spirited. Which is sometimes the opposite of what I design, feminine and romantic. It's funny but I think it balances out my "style" sanity. Staying in one end of the spectrum would drive me crazy and bored.

What are you wearing this holiday season? Zero by Maria Cornejo

Closet staples? Black dresses. My Arche rubber flats (addicted to these for close to 20 years), scarves and shawls. Leggings and rubber soled ballet flats.

How are you influencing your daughter's personal style? I am a shopaholic when it comes to their clothes, and they love dressing up, so it's really enjoyable for all of us. My eldest (5 yrs old) is already adamant about picking all her everyday outfits, and my youngest (3 yrs old) loves wearing costumes, and I highly encourage it, so they can express their individuality through their style choices. I just want them to have fun with it.

Style icons? Charlotte Gainsbourgh, Lou Doillon, Marion Cotillard, and Michelle Obama.

Tip or 2 for all moms out there who want to stay stylish amidst all the hullabaloo motherhood brings? I find that dresses have been my life saver since I've become a mom. It's just one piece so it's a no brainer.

Any shopping advice?
If you can, choose quality over quantity. In my experience, it'll last longer and you'll wear it more and more, then you'll likely to take care of it more.

Luccia wears a dress from The Ramp Kids and Olivia in a dress from Gingersnaps.

The girls are their mother's biggest fans. 

Spending an afternoon with Richie and her daughters is as refreshing as it is inspiring. You'd easily admire the way she balances the crazy push-and-pull between motherhood and running a business. 

Outside her little family, she makes brides (jittery or cool) happy. And I happen to be one of those brides who made the best decision ever and pick a designer I most resonate with. Richie just got me from first meeting to final fitting. I couldn't be happier with the outcome. And I am one of many, that I am sure.

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Find Richie Ortega Bridal on Facebook for details.

Photography by Anthony Co.

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Mischmash Stylish Mama {October}

Leona Laviña Panutat, former Esprit buyer, stylist, writer, ShopCrazy shopping editor, blogger, art enthusiast.. wrap up this pretty package of a loving wife and a brand new mum.  

Her work station is conveniently situated beside her son's crib. This is where she writes away while  Wyatt is deep in blissful slumber.

Art by Francis Nacion hangs in the master bedroom where we spied Matryoshka dolls and hardbound reads on fashion and design.

Carlo Ongchangco, Cambridge Fluro Pink Satchel, BCBG Multi-colored Sandals.

Accessorizing is second nature to Leona who owns a vast collection of baubles from cocktail rings to statement necklaces all neatly labeled and categorized. 

Clad in her typical mash-up of preppy-boho. Pleated skirt, crew neck sweater, boho-inspired accessories with a Joyce Makitalo ring to boot.

Shots of color you'll spot all over her insanely neat and put-together place of dwelling.

His and hers. Mama brogues and baby brogues.

Elephant Wooden Menagerie by Jomike Tejido.

Wyatt's nursery is peppered with art lovingly made by his mum and his cousins.

A wooden horse spruced up with one of Leona's favorite scarves holds commanding presence. 

On the right is Wyatt's travel blanket, the hands-on mum especially made for her son before his big arrival.

Describe your personal style? Hmmm.. Preppy-boho. I like wearing clean and classic pieces and pairing them with something quirky, colorful and a bit off. I used to have a monochromatic closet but now all of a sudden I can't get enough of color!! 

What are you wearing this fall? Colored denims, slim V neck and crew neck sweaters, maxi skirts, wedge booties and my Missoni for Target loot! 

Closet staples? Denim cutoffs, straight cut jeans, stripe tees, slim cut cargos, men's button downs and my manly flats: brogues and loafers. 

What is that one piece you can't live without fashion/motherhood-wise? Crisp white button down. You can wear it to absolutely any event. Great when dressed up with a ball gown skirt or dressed down with cutoffs. Plus it's breastfeeding friendly. 

How are you influencing your son's personal style? Well, he's only 2 months old so I don't think I have that much influence on him yet but when he's a bit bigger I'd say.. wear whatever makes you happy! 

Style icons? Jenna Lyons, Tory Burch, Olivia Palermo and Taylor Tomasi-Hill.

Tip or 2 for all moms out there who want to stay stylish amidst all the hullabaloo motherhood brings? Any shopping advice? Buy basics with a twist. A white button down with with an unexpected collar, khakis with pleats, cropped dark denims. These pieces will always look good together no matter what. Just throw on some accessories, grab a leather tote and you're good to go. As for shopping, always be aware of your surroundings. You might just score a great deal in the most unlikely places. Some of my favorite pieces are from Supermarkets!

Styling may have taken a backseat but style is obviously innate for this first time momma who looks like she's having the time of her life. What, with that palpable glow you see and feel around her and adorable Wyatt. Priceless.  

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Photography by Anthony Co.

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Read the prelude.