My friend Vanessa Santos, aka #thevainmama, is The Model Mama.
And not just because she's gorgeous and statuesque. She makes motherhood look so stylish, easy and fun! Not only that, she still manages to squeeze in time to be productive for herself, for her own enjoyment.
Van is the Beauty Seeker for cult online store Seek the Uniq and her cousin Mavis Manotoc-Fuentebella's partner at Stella by TALA. She also contributes to Glam-o-mamas and Glamourbox, in between shuttling the kids to and from their daily activities.
We always look forward to play dates at their home, where she thoughtfully whips up virgin sangrias for us mommas, to go with the sumptuous snacks she puts together in her kitchen. I remember stuffing myself one time with warm bread slathered in butter swirled with strawberry jam while the kids played princess dress up. I couldn't stop eating it. Van told me to just whisk softened butter with strawberry jam in a food processor, et voila - strawberry flavored butter. It's brillz. She's brillz.
When it comes to style, expect nothing less from Van of course. Her marketing and PR stints at Luxasia and Louis Vuitton Philippines have honed and trained her eye to appreciate quality and luxury in a quiet, informed and discerning level. Her selection of shoes reflect just that.
Am basing this on my closet shelves - about 50 pairs.
What's your shoe size?
39 to 40
Which pairs are your favorites?
Lanvin Ballet Flats for traveling. I normally use this on the plane. The are easy to slip on and off and can be dressed up or down.
Cesare Paciotti boots. I scored these at a secret sample sale in Korea. Luckily most of the shoes were in my size! The boots are gorgeous and so comfortable.
The Cesare Paciotti embellished pumps are a statement piece that I'm saving for a special occasion.
YSL Black Tribute Pumps. I call these my "power shoes". They are classic black pumps that always make me feel a little more confident (probably because of the 4 inch heels). I love how the secret platform makes these shoes super comfy and I can wear them the entire day without any problems.
Maison Martin Margiela sneakers. I am not the sporty type but I have accepted that sneakers are the way to go for traveling. In my 30's and with two kids in tow, comfort that is stylish is always a winner.
Etro sandals, my most recent purchase. I lean towards simple, clean pieces when it comes to my clothes. Even in terms of colors, I generally stick to plains and neutrals. This fun pair of sandals should add a punch to most of my favorite shift dresses.
If you could only wear one pair of shoes, which one would it be?
Sandals...
...or flats.
What are your favorite shoe brands?
Lanvin, YSL, Louis Vuitton, Cesaro Paciotti, Mystique, and Renegade Folk here in Manila.
Van's collection of Louis Vuitton footwear, because an LV girl has to walk the talk
Gypset glam sandals by Mystique
Van's growing collection of Renegade Folk sandals
What's in your shoe lust list?
I need new flipflops for swimming. I’m so tempted to get the Valentino camo x Havaianas. Its your fault Tin! Haha
Where do you buy shoes?
Mostly abroad.
What's that one shoe you can't bear to give away or throw out?
My patent navy Lanvin Ballet flats from 2008. They were my first pair and I bring them to almost every trip I go to.
All photos by Camille King of Camille King Photography. Like her Facebook page, HERE.
