SOLAQUA x GEMMA KEIL
This week, we're reflecting on what motherhood means
to OUR COMMUNITY AS WE LEAD INTO MOTHER'S DAY.
WE SPOKE WITH FASHION STYLIST & CREATIVE GEMMA KEIL ON BALANCING RAISING HER TWINS AND HAVING AN ACTIVE ROLE IN THE FASHION INDUSTRY.
Gemma, who are you a mother to?
Louis and Grace, my gorgeous, cheeky four and a half year old twins.
How has Motherhood changed how you approach personal style?
There’s a definite distinction between pre and post twin clothes in my wardrobe. I used to love a fab embellished piece, and wore a lot of beige and cream. Now it's a ton of black, mainly hard working separates that are practical and I can wear back with multiple items in my wardrobe without much thought.
How did you see yourself as a woman before Motherhood and how has this changed today?
Prior to having the twins I definitely felt like I had more balance in my life, I’d got to an age and done enough self work that I knew what I needed to do to fill up, energetically.
After having the twins, this all changed - my priorities became my beautiful, but very demanding babies. After juggling work commitments and mum duties it leaves very little time to squeeze in a jog, meditate, even catch up with friends for a wine - all the things that used to keep me sane.
So, although filling up my own cup has become harder, my life is far richer and I wouldn't change a thing.
How do you find balance in Motherhood and having an active role in the Australian Fashion Industry?
Like most working mums you are very aware of the tensions at play, being present for your kids and keeping your clients happy. For now I've decided not to travel as much for work and I dont attend evening functions so I can be home to put the kids to bed. It's taken me this long to work out a balance that I feel generally works, but it's ever evolving.
What are some things you have let go of since becoming a Mother?
My priorities have shifted immensely. I don't think I sweat the small stuff as much.
What is the most meaningful Motherhood advice you have received?
A friend recently told me that 75% of the entire time you'll spend with your kids is from birth to age 12. This really put things into perspective.
What advice on personal style will you pass down to your children?
My son seems far more interested in style than my daughter for now. It won't be long until he’s giving me style advice.
Gemma is wearing SOLAQUA Pre-Fall 2023. Available in June.
"It's taken me this long to work out a balance that I feel generally works, but it's ever evolving"
