Style Influenced by Mum
Hello Everyone
I I hope you are all well, you've wintered well and if anything like me, excited for Spring/Summer. Lighter days, lighter clothes and some sunshine (hopefully).
To celebrate Mothers Day I got thinking about our Mum, Hilary and how we could celebrate her. There are many ways but in line with Rae Feather the brand I came to the realisation that it really all started with Mum. A lady with such innate style I often ask myself where did it come from.
My mum was a war baby, one of 12 children. Her upbringing was wholesome, loving and humble. Granda was an accountant and epitomised the true meaning of the word "gentleman" - Granda was Gentleman. A handsome man, quietly spoken, an avid reader, a huge smile and a kind, kind soul like non other.
Granny, a force of nature. 12 children... in there a set of triplets of which sadly one died, Jimmy, who Mum told me recently that Granny never really got over. Granny farmed the land. Chickens, goats, cows, lambs, vegetables. She baked daily, wheaten bread, soda farls, apple pie to name but a few. She made her own cream butter and cheese.
My cousin Cherie Denham has written a best selling cookery book based on her memories of Granny's recipes.
We went to Mums home place every Sunday. I adored my Aunts and Uncles. At any one time there might have been 30 people coming and going. My memory is that of so much warmth and laughter.
From as far back as I can remember I loved watching Mum get ready to go out and as far back as I can remember she always had the most effortless style. A simple dress with a statement accessory. A cotton shirt layered with a knit. A leather loafer - her wardrobe staple. A pair purchased every visit to London to visit our aunts. Mum has owned a Gucci loafer for 40 years - a very considered buy I might add.
My parents travelled, not extravagantly but they were curious travellers. Lovers of food, culture and architecture, they loved Italy and all things Italian. Benetton was the brand of the day....so very clever. Preppy coordinaates in bright colours that wardrobes were built upon. Mum opened a Benetton franchise in her local town, Portadown. This really broke the mould of a small provincial market town. I had a Saturday job and wages went on clothes.
Mum has worked in retail from the age of 20. She met my Dad, they married and they opened a paint shop in our local town. This grew and for a year Mum left Ireland, moved to London, did a year at Inchbald School of Design and became a qualified Interior Designer. Mum still goes to work Monday to Friday. She has an interior shop selling all things interiors, runs a property business and at the age of 84 is as sharp as a tack.
For Mothers Day I asked Mum, Hilary, ten questions about style. The pieces she loves, the places that inspire her, and the things she treasures most. Here goes...
Who is your style Icon?
Grace Kelly for her natural beauty and elegance closely followed by the Queen whose classic style never wavered.
Favourite colour ?
Any shade of blue/navy.
Favourite holiday destination?
I love Italy and all things Italian - food, wine , language, culture, fashion and people. Portugal as its our second home and a place I have very special memories of my time when Raymond was alive.
Favourite shoe?
A good loafer, I love my Bee Gucci Loafers which I have had for almost 10 years and are still going strong.
An accessory you are rarely seen without ?
