Oh, mon dieu! There are so many timeless quotes on style that us fashion lovers can recall. Think of Coco Chanel’s famous call to femininity, “a girl should be two things: classy and fabulous,” or Audrey Hepburn’s ethos to all women, “Life is a party. Dress like it.” to name a few. But as famous as these women’s legacies are - nothing compares to the well-meaning style advice our mothers, grandmothers and mother-figures have doled out to us over the years with love – and have lodged in our memories – for a lifetime. Need a source d’inspiration to go out for a Mother’s Day lunch in style? In honour of Mother’s Day, a celebration of les mères everywhere, we thought we’d go behind the scenes at Blue Illusion and ask our wonderful team of staff what pearls of wisdom they received from their own mothers about fashion – and how it has shaped their personal style today.
But first, we are delighted for you to meet the stars of this blog, mother-daughter modelling duo, Ujjwala and Ksha Raut, who are featured throughout this story and in this beautiful gift guide - modelling our latest Rue Saint Honoré Collection.
Ujjwala wears Ruched Detail Dress, Rose Stone Necklace and Iris Ink Loafer. Ksha wears Vibrant Check Shirt, Tapered Leg Jean and Charlie Cord Baker Boy Cap.
Blue and green should never be seen - without a colour in between
“Something that immediately sprang into my mind was something my mother once told me about styling and dressing when I was a little girl– that there needs to be balance and contrast when wearing colour. Whether it’s a pop of yellow, purple or gold amongst washes of blue and greens, this piece of advice has always stuck in my childhood memory - amongst the myriad of patterns and floral fabrics I so adored in her sewing room. That blue and green should never be seen without a colour in between. That clothes, much like life, always need a pop of sunshine.”
- Tracey, Head of People + Culture
Never look like you’re trying too hard.
“My mother always hung on to her own style aesthetic – she believed in choosing a favourite fashion detail that wouldn’t look like you’re trying too hard. It could be a signature lipstick that you love. The way you wear your hair. Or even a pair of high heels that make you feel taller. In other words – choosing a single fashion staple that makes you feel beautiful on the inside and that brings out your natural beauty – is what your personal style should really be about.”
- Síbeal, People + Culture Talent Partner
When in doubt - wear black, as it can match any coloured accessory, and can give you such an elegant silhouette.
“When I was a little girl, my mother always told me how transformative the colour black was to her. That not only could it give you such a sleek silhouette, but it could also sit comfortably with any accessory. Whether it be a colourful pair of shoes, a belt, a clutch or a bright pop of sparkly jewellery, wearing black is the perfect background shade that sets the scene for elegance as well as a hint of mystery”.
- Pamela, Graphic Designer
Always pull your hair back if you can, in a high ponytail to look taller and more polished.
“My mum always encourages me, even today, to pull my hair back. That tying your hair back into a tight ponytail actively pulls your facial muscles and makes you look more polished and confident. Whether you wear your hair in a full or half ponytail, or even a headband - the trick is to tighten your hair off your face every so often to give your visage, and your mood - a mini-lift!”
- Nicole, Copywriter
Ujjwala wears Silk Shirt, Longline Vest and Wide Leg Printed Pant. Ksha wears Vibrant Check Dress.
Ksha wears Roll Neck Cable Knit and Jacquard Skinny Pant. Ujjwala wears Half Sleeve Wool Knit and Knit Midi Skirt
On behalf of Blue Illusion, we sincerely wish all mamans the happiest of days this Mother’s Day. Whether you are out for a sumptuous brunch, a high tea or at home or treated with a surprise breakfast in bed, just remember – that your motherly advice is forever timeless, and that you deserve to be treasured and cherished – with your loved ones always around you.
Merci pour tout, maman.
Explore our latest arrivals to find more inspiration on what to wear for Mother's Day celebrations.
Looking for perfect gift for the maman in your life, or something to spoil yourself with? Explore our gift guide now.
