Woman of Style: Amina Aranaz-Alunan gives motherhood a glam name

MANILA, Philippines - You can’t tell but three weeks before this photo shoot, Amina Aranaz-Alunan had just given birth to a baby boy, Diego, who just happened to be her third. Juggling three kids under the age of three usually puts most working moms into a catatonic state — Victoria Beckham claims that raising three boys isn’t parenting, it’s crowd control — but Amina, who helms two successful businesses, her bag label Aranaz and fashion school SoFA, has managed to successfully balance work and family — including a major transition.

“We’re moving to the south,” she says. Finding the right school for her kids and figuring out her new schedule (as moving to the south has increased her travel time to work) are only a fraction of her current concerns.

“It’s so hard to find the right clothes right after you give birth,” Amina says. “Nothing fits right at the moment.”

Hard to believe since the young mom is positively glowing — and already stepping into high heels.

“I’ve always loved heels,” she says. “I can’t ever let them go.”

STAR examines the closet of the young mom and discovers her secret to having it all.

PHILIPPINE STAR: How do you balance work with three kids?  

AMINA ARANAS-ALUNAN: It’s not easy. But I am lucky that I handle my own time. With both Aranaz and the fashion school (SoFA), I am able to build my schedule around my kids to make sure I spend quality and quantity time with them.

Has your style shifted since giving birth? 

I used to live in stilettos. I used to find rubber shoes uncomfortable. But since giving birth to my first child, I’ve learned to dress down and wear less accessories (which babies love to grab and pull at) when I know I will be spending a day running after the kids.

What do you think most new moms find hardest to deal with after giving birth?  

Sleepless nights. Caring for a newborn can be stressful! Fashionwise? Dealing with a not so perfect figure and trying to fit in to your pre-pregnancy wardrobe.

How would you describe your previous three pregnancies?

For all three pregnancies, my first trimester is always bad. Constant nausea and vomiting. I was pretty anxious and paranoid with the first since I didn’t know what to expect. By the third, I was an expert and knew what to expect every step of the way! 

Do you obsess more about what your kids wear than your own outfit?

I do love to shop for my kids. I don’t even think twice when I see a cute outfit for them.

Since having kids, does comfort trump style these days? Or do you still get dreamy over four-inch pumps?

I’m a self-confessed glam girl. Dressing down for me is a tank top, jeans, wedges an armful of bangles and dangling earrings. But since having kids, I have learned to wear flats and trim down on the accessories.

How do you and your husband keep the marriage, well, alive?

Spending time with our kids is what makes us both happy. On occasion, we’ll have dinner, watch a movie or go out for drinks with friends. We’re hoping to be able to go on a trip soon: a second honeymoon. 

Describe a typical day.

Mornings I usually work from home so I can spend time with my kids while answering e-mails or chatting with my staff. Afternoons are spent at work either at the fashion school SoFA or the bag factory. Evenings are either for family or on occasion attending events/dinners. I end the day working on my laptop before going to bed. 

What’s your lifelong dream?

To never stop dreaming and to not stop until I’ve achieved all of them! 

Bedside table musts?

Clock, cellphone, and a glass of water.

How would you define your personal style?

Glamorous, chic, feminine...I love intricate and beautifully made pieces. 

What is your no-fail outfit?

Jeans, high heels, and an interesting blouse. and my YSL Big easy leather tote

What do you feel best wearing? 

Sky-high stilletos always do the trick. 

What freaks you out?

Dogs, cats…any animal in general.

What is your favorite off-duty activity? 

Enjoying a good hearty meal and shopping with my sister Rosanna.

How do you usually begin your creative design process?

Looking for inspiration and a theme to get my mood board started.

Do you have any hidden talents/abilities?

I danced ballet for over 10 years then a little of flamenco. I hope to be able to go back to some sort of dancing soon.

What is the most rewarding — and challenging — thing about the accessories business?

Rewarding: When you see real women wear and appreciate your pieces. Challenging: Finding good raw materials locally is pretty difficult, and the whole production process because there are so many steps and suppliers involved in order to assemble a single piece.  

What’s your favorite getaway spot?

Tali Beach. I’ve been going there since I was 12 years old. Now it has also become a favorite escape of my husband and kids!

One thing you do before going to sleep?

Pray and check my e-mail and Facebook.

What’s in current rotation on your iPod?

I don’t have one! I rely on my husband for music. 

What gives you a sense of fulfillment?

Helping others pursue their dream and their passions.

What’s the one beauty product you can’t live without?

Concealer. I have major dark circles. Especially these days, I lack sleep because of my newborn baby!

What kind of jewelry would you love to inherit?

Anything with an authentic vintage setting. I love the look of nostalgia.

What’s your idea of a perfect pair of shoes?

Nude three-inch platform heels, which will go with anything and will elongate your legs.

What is your favorite recent purchase?

Since I just gave birth three weeks ago, I haven’t shopped in a while. I plan to go on a post-pregnancy shopping spree ASAP.

What five pieces define your everyday style?

Sunglasses, a big tote, platform heels, jeans and casual dresses.

Your best shopping secret?

My sister’s closet and SM.

Do you have any fundamental rules of dressing?

It’s always better to be overdressed than underdressed.

What was your style as a teener?

I was quite experimental and trendy. I would read teen magazines and follow exactly how the models were dressed. Today, I still read magazines but I am more confident of what I like. I don’t just follow a look head to toe. I am still a bargain hunter but I also now believe in investing in good reliable pieces that will last a lifetime. 

What do you regret buying the most?

Overly trendy clothing pieces from the bargain streets of Hong Kong. I have a pile of stuff that I’ve never worn or wore once only. 

Most unforgettable present you’ve received? 

Black pumps with feathers that my husband bought me. I was surprised he got it right because the shoe totally captures my style.

Most outrageous purchase?

Happy to say I’m a pretty smart spender. So nothing yet.

Best sartorial advice from your parents?

When I was an insecure teenager, my mom always told me to have fun with fashion and not to be self-conscious about what others thought of my fashion choices. She encouraged us to be confident with our style.

Who, in your opinion, is emblematic of classic style?

Audrey Hepburn and Jackie O, no doubt. Their style is truly timeless and elegant. 

Priciest bauble you acquired?

Engagement ring and pass-me-downs from my mom.

Local designers you admire?

Rajo Laurel for his success in making himself a household name. Bea Valdes for her truly unique creations and her achievements in the international fashion scene. 

Foreign?

Coco Chanel. She had a clear vision, bold and ahead of her time.

Is there an item in your closet you cherish the most?

My wedding gown by Jojie Lloren. I wish I could wear it again.