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Making Mom Style Easy, Fun, and Empowering

by Gretchen Gatan Fragada
January 3, 2023

This story first came out in Modern Parenting’s 2022 print edition.

Whenever Roshni Mirpuri and Siya Daryani arrive at every Modern Parenting shoot, they bring with them such a vibrant energy that lights up the whole room. Aside from a strong and empowering presence, their wit, bubbliness, and charm draw you in. In fact, their warmth is so contagious that you might find yourself already laughing and enjoying a conversation as soon as you meet them.

The Mom Stylists’ Trade

As the magazine’s resident stylists, every Spotlight shoot is a reflection of their love and passion for the work that they do. But just how do they balance styling different cover stars and making sure their personalities shine while retaining a certain look that fits the Modern Parenting brand?

“We always keep in mind the Modern Parenting aesthetic,” Roshni answers. “At the same time, we get to know the talent and cover stars. Their work and what they stand for, and how they want to be represented. Every look we put together must resonate with the Modern Parenting brand and with the talent because only then can we get our money shot!”

“As stylists, it’s our part to make sure that the end product — either the photo or video — comes out as desired or better,” Siya adds. “When we know the personality, we go through their social media to get a glimpse of what they do on a daily basis and how they dress. It gives us an idea of their style and comfort. Based on that, we pull out clothes that then resonate with them and the brand or shoot guidelines. That being said, we always carry excess. Once the artist sees the outfit, you can tell from their expressions whether they are excited, happy, or just meh. I personally look for that spark in their eye that will tell me that this is it.”

Siya Daryani of The Closet Culture — Siya Daryani

Mom Style: Comfortably Empowering

Both stylists are also mothers — which means they understand that on most days, moms tend to pick comfort over style to check off as many things on their to-do lists. “You can look very, very stylish even with comfortable clothes,” Siya encourages. “Just add some interest through a nice t-shirt, knot it in front or tuck it on one side, fix your hair, add lip balm if you like, some sunglasses or a cute bag, and you’re ready to go!”

“For me, to feel and look good, I must be comfortable,” says Roshni. “So definitely, comfort is key. However, comfort doesn’t have to mean looking shabby. You can look glamorous and feel sexy yet still be comfortable. All you need to know is how to accentuate your best features and play with that. Fashion plays a huge role in boosting one’s confidence, which is why it’s essential for mothers to maintain their own sense of style. “Your personal style is a way of expressing who you are. Every woman or mom is beautiful and unique despite the extreme physical changes she goes through after having her children. Some days, we as moms, get lost in the different roles we play. So the one thing that’s your own — through which you can be you and express yourself — is through your personal sense of style,” Roshi explains.

Siya shares the same sentiments. “I feel when we become parents, we all have our own journey. Some are too involved that they don’t take care of themselves, some don’t have the help and support system, and some don’t know what they are doing, or if they are doing the right thing. In the midst of this topsy-turvy journey, for some, dressing up and going out is an expression of themselves. It gives them some sense of normalcy.”

Siya Daryani and Roshni Mirpuri of The Closet Culture — Siya Daryani and Roshni Mirpuri

Own Your Mom Style

When it comes to styling tips, Siya answers that you need to own what you wear. “If you are not comfortable, take it off. Because it’s seen on your face and felt in your energy. Even the best outfit won’t make a difference. If you don’t feel like yourself, nothing will turn heads. But if you own your outfit, you can kill it — even with just jeans and a simple t-shirt.”

Roshni also understands that we all have certain parts of our bodies we are conscious of. “If you have a belly, wear a camisole or blouse that’s slightly A-line and that hits at your hip then wear a blazer that is longer than the blouse by a few inches. Go for a pair of tapered pants and a pair of heels. The blazer and long tapered pants will give an illusion of elongating you — hence your belly will no longer be the focal point.”

As stylists, their days are full of meetings and events. “When in a rush, I go with all black, all white, or all pink. And I add a pop of another color with my accessories,” Roshni says. Meanwhile, Siya’s staples include a nice blazer, pants or jeans, and a pair of heels. “If you cannot think of what to wear, stick to the simplest and most classic. But add a pop with your lipstick, or an accessory, or shoes, or maybe a bag. Or all of it! Just have fun. Love and appreciate every aspect of you because you are amazing!”

“Confidence comes from within,” Roshni emphasizes. “Most women go in front of a mirror and start with criticism rather than a compliment. Give yourself a compliment on your appearance every day.”