Rania has been going through a bit of a phase lately. She's become extremely clingy and if I so much as turn around, she screams bloody murder. I'm not sure if it's teething or just separation anxiety that's sprung up from nowhere, but what I do know is that it makes working extra tough! Mommy guilt almost never leaves me and if I leave the house for a shoot whilst she's howling, it makes it even tougher. On that particular day, Rania was having one of her 'mommy don't go' tantrums. So I decided to dress her up, and take her to the park with me for a shoot. Not only did we end up having a blast, but I was able to shoot a look without all the guilt.
Trying to maintain a career and motherhood isn't easy. One has to put in a great effort in striking a balance to be able to work and spend time with your children. If I feel I've been a little too busy and haven't been able to spend time with Rania, I let go of a few activities. Sometimes, I skip the gym during the day so I get to spend those two extra hours with my baby. I cancel any social gathering that isn't of immediate importance too. Every now and then I tell my nanny to take the afternoon off or the husband and I will take Rania out on a family date so we can get some alone time with her. At the end of the day, it all comes down to prioritising. But if you have been going through the mommy guilt, just remember as long as you make it a point to be there for your kids whenever you have some free time, you're already an amazing mom. Don't beat yourself up about it because that wont get you anywhere.
Anyways, for this look, I chose this super summery, and super short, off shoulder dress with blue and white stripes. The minute I saw this online, I was in love with it. It was so pretty and the floral embroidery added just the right touch. It felt so flirty and fun when I put it on. I love how there are endless ways to accessorise the dress. You can wear an oversized straw hat and layer thin necklaces, or you can wear one big chunky neck piece and tie your hair back. Pair it with knee high gladiator sandals, espadrille wedges or even androgynous brogues. For my purse, I chose the Gucci GG Marmont Leather shoulder bag that I bought a couple of months ago. You can read about it here. I felt the deep red would add a nice contrast to the blue and white. Plus, it's been my favourite purse and I haven't stopped using since I got it!
Dress - Mitali Wadhwa
Rania's Dress - Ralph Lauren
Handbag - Gucci
Earrings - Pankaj & Nidhi
Rania's Stuffed Toys - Good Earth
