The designer reveals all about life with two boys and the inspiration behind her latest childrenswear collection
You’re mother to Otto, three, and one-year-old Augusto. How are you finding life as a mother of two little boys?
Ha, let’s just say I’ve certainly got my hands full!
Are the boys close?
Augusto lives for Otto, and Otto loves it. He loves that his brother laughs at his every move. Now they are starting to play together more often – catch-me-if-you-can-style – and it’s really fun to watch them. They sometimes get jealous of each other, but it balances out.
Did your approach to motherhood change at all second time around?
I was much less stressed than the first time. I stopped running towards every noise, and as a result, Augusto has grown up much less needy for attention than Otto, and is often able to entertain himself on his own.
How was pregnancy for you?
I was never sick, although I was extremely sleepy early on. I would regularly fall asleep after lunch – nothing could keep me awake! I also suffered with lower back pain, which accompanied me for a while after giving birth. Other than that, life went on as usual.
Did you have any indulgences?
I never got on the scales and ate as I felt, although I would try to be more conscious of the origins of my food.
If we were to rummage through your changing bag, what would we find?
Hipp Organic wet wipes, Weleda calendula nappy cream, Lifefactory baby bottles filled with coconut water, a few toys, rice cakes and probably a banana!
What other essentials have proved invaluable to you, that you would recommend to new parents?
An Ergobaby carrier, a BabyBjörn bouncer, a Tummy Tub bath, the Babyzen Yoyo stroller, Cloud B’s Sleep Sheep cuddle toy and Naty eco-friendly nappies.
Fashion obviously plays a huge role in your family – where do you like to shop for your boys?
I often go to flea markets and small, independent shops close to where we live. I also like John Lewis and Smallable.
Is your sense of style rubbing off on the boys?
Otto is definitely starting to show a preference in what he wears, as well as in food choices and other things. He certainly doesn’t hesitate to speak his mind!
What prompted you to launch your own childrenswear label?
Having children was the main factor that made me quit my job at Missoni and find something that would allow me to be in control of my own time and work routine. I wanted to be able to work from home and spend more quality time with my children. When I had babies, I learned a lot about childrenswear and realised that there was a gap in the market for something particularly playful. So, I decided to look for a partner and launch my own collection.
What influences your designs?
The designs always combine a mix of classic pieces that might be found in a little girl’s wardrobe – traditional pinafore shapes and shirt fabrics, for example – with cool, contrasting colours and textures, and unexpected details. For AW16 specifically, we incorporated a little of Japan, with oriental shapes and prints, as well as a bohemian fairytale forest theme, with floral embroideries and patchwork pockets.
Could a boys’ collection be in the pipeline?
Yes, very soon!
Where do you like to go when you want to take a break?
I love coming to London. Most of my friends live here now and I love to come over and visit, even if it’s just for one night. Farmacy in Notting Hill is the perfect place to hang out if I’m with the children – think super healthy and yummy food in an airy, calming environment.
Margherita Kids is available online at johnlewis.com and in selected John Lewis stores.
