Whiny Wednesday: Milly designer Michelle Smith Stops By

Um, the chicest mom bag ever, perhaps?

This mama here is obsessed with all things Milly, and if I had a little girl, I would be obsessed with all things Milly Minis, too! (trust me, if you haven't seen...it's quite squeal-worthy!) Ah, Michelle Smith makes some of the most amazing pieces...and spring is just about the perfect season for Milly. So much fun; so much color; so many great patterns. Since Michelle's a mom of two, I asked her to stop by I Heart Heels to catch us up on how she balances her work with being a mom (psst...she also loves shoes!). 

I Heart Heels: Your collections are always so much fun with lots of prints and bold colors! What are a few pieces from your new spring collection an on-the-go mom might wear (the new Milly for Sperry Top-Siders, perhaps)?

Michelle Smith: The Daphnie dress is body skimming and bold. It makes you look instantly pulled together no matter how crazy the day! For moms looking to add some edge to their look, I always suggest investing in a great leather jacket. The Milly motorcycle jacket is feminine and cool at the same time. It’s great for weekends on the go! Top off your looks with the Milly Tribal tote—the print is so much fun and it’s roomy enough to carry your life in it! 

My second Milly for Sperry Topsider line will launch in February—it’s filled with fun colors and prints. I can’t wait for you to see the collection! And don’t forget to stay tuned for my Milly for Banana Republic collaboration, inspired by the spirit of the Hamptons, which launches at the end of May. It even includes menswear for the husbands!

IHH: Your Milly Minis clothing is absolutely adorable. What are a few things your daughter Sophia gravitates to when it comes to clothing?

MS: Sophia is only five, but she already knows what she likes, fashion-wise. Her favorite game is dress-up, she loves anything with glitter and like me, her weakness is shoes!

IHH: You have two little ones now, so how much more difficult is balancing your family/career now, and how do you make time for it all?

MS: My husband and I always spend quality time with our children in the morning, and take them to school. Then we head to the office and meetings. It’s always a busy day, but well worth it for those mornings together. If I ever want to pop out of the office for one of my children’s classes, a birthday party (and always for their doctor appointments), I can do it. I'm always home by 7 or 7:30 to put the kids to bed. I love my career, but my family comes first.

IHH: There are so many great places for kids in New York. Where do you take them for lunch or outings?

MS: I love New York’s museums and programs for the arts. Right now, Sophia and William love to play in the Central Park playgrounds, and we love to make family trips to the zoo and Botanical Gardens. I want my children to grow up with a passion for everything the city has to offer. Via Quadronno is right around the corner from our apartment, so we like to go there for a bite as a family.

IHH: Must know. What’s your secret to staying chic with two kids?

MS: I try to keep my wardrobe smart, sexy and bold. Milly is an extension of my personal style, and I design with myself in mind, so each collection is like stepping into my dream wardrobe for the season.

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