Patriotic Chic Week with Maritza Bernard of Milkshop

We can’t wait for you to check out this amazing mommy of three (soon to be four!) and her chic boho city look. Not only is she owner and founder of Milkshop, she is also another dear friend from high school who is rocking mommyhood in style. She lives in New York and in between runarounds with her little ones works as personal shopper and stylist. Maritza has style for daze and a unique sophistication that is perfect for any busy mommy or woman. Enjoy her pics and tips. xx

1. Briefly describe Milkshop.

Milkshop is an agency that offers personal shopping, styling and closet detox services for men and women.

2. What inspired you to start Milkshop?

After I had my 3rd, husband and I decided I needed to stay home. It was during this time that I started hearing other moms complain about their struggle with finding clothes that are flattering to their new changed bodies. When you feel good in what you are wearing and like the way you look, others take notice because it radiates confidence. I wanted these awesome moms to have that. So in August of 2012 I launched Milkshop. I have amazing clients who have become close friends of mine. We all have the same goal – taking care of our families but also making sure we are taking care of ourselves. If mommy is happy, the whole family is happy!

3. What are some of your style essentials?

Accessories! They can completely transform your look. A turquoise statement necklace can make a plain black tee look glamorous, and a pair of gladiator heels can take your cut off denim shorts from the beach to dinner. A pair of oversized sunglasses not only hides tired mommy eyes but also make you look like a woman who has a very important meeting at a fancy place… lol!

4. What are some of your favorite brands and/or designers?

I tend to love more of the boho-chic look so I definitely have a love for Free People. I love jeans, shoes and bags from  Zara. Oh, and their kids clothes are to die for. Topshop, Minkpink, Cleobella, Stone Cold Fox… I have a lot of favorites! I am a bargain hunter though – I wait for good sales, promos and discounts and feel like my clients do appreciate that.

5. What looks are you loving for this summer?

All things tropical! I am obsessed with the beautiful green palm prints, pineapple accents and overall bright colors that are trending this summer. Also, white white white – shoes, tees, shorts, dresses all in white… I cannot get enough of it. I even have white nails. 🙂 Best color to wear with a summer tan.

6. Seeing as you are about to have your 4th (yes 4th!!) baby you are an expert when it comes to dressing the bump. What are your tips for looking chic and what
are you wearing right now?

Belts! I feel a little less big when I can wrap a belt under or over my belly. It helps a flowy dress from looking mumu-ish. I have found that you don’t have to wear maternity clothing, you can wear things a few sizes bigger and they can still be very flattering. After trying on over 10 maternity shorts and none of them fitting
right, I bought my cut off shorts from Urban Outfitters and they are my favorite.
I also have been wearing tons of strappy sandals. I am definitely a heels girl but being top heavy at the moment, I don’t last that long in them! I have a pair
of Jeffrey Campbell tie up heels that I live in and refuse to give up… bring it on spider veins!

7. What do you love about being a mom?

I have loved experiencing true unconditional love between my kids and I. It’s unbelievable how forgiving motherhood teaches you to be. Mistakes are made everyday in our house, thousands! We are constantly saying sorry, hugging it out and then aiming to be kind and bring happiness to each other. I think that it helps us learn how to do that outside of the home too, giving others that grace when they are not nice to you helps you let it bounce off and not let it ruin your day.

8. What do you enjoy about your job?

Making moms feel confident about the way they look and teaching my NY women to wear color!

9. Why is online shopping an essential for you?

I have clients all over the country so in that respect there is no other way to do it. But also, I can shop once the kids are in bed and not miss out on their activities
during the day. I can also try things on in the comfort of on my own room and test out with the shoes and accessories I already have to complete a look.

10. What are some of your “go to” fashion sites?

When I am shopping for someone that isn’t local, I have to shop somewhere that offer free shipping and returns (unless a client doesn’t mind spending extra on those costs). Most websites will offer free shipping once you hit a certain amount but my go-to’s are: ASOS, Zara, Shopbop, Revolve, Freepeople, Singer22, Boutique To You, and Swell just to name of few but the list goes on and on!

Look 1: 1 // 2 // 3 // 4

Look 2: 1 // 2 // 3 // 4 // 5

maritzabernard@gmail.com