Our Story

March 01, 2018 2 Comments

Labour of love

I started Pink Liberty as an intense labour of love in-between breast feedings, daytime naps and kindergarten drop-offs to bring you an online fashion destination for modern mamas and beyond.

As a mom of two amazing little boys—I know that spills and thrills are part of the everyday in this awesome adventure called motherhood.

Finding stylish, on-trend clothing that fit my lifestyle as a busy, working mama—specifically pieces I could transition before, during and after pregnancy was a challenge. Having two little ones to chase around, meant less time for myself. I still loved to shop, but grew tired of the mall with two kids in-tow.

Becoming a mother changes you

Becoming a mother changes you—your body, mind and emotions undergo drastic change. Enjoying the little luxuries of clothing room hauls and try-ons were far and few-between. My shopping trips resembled a WWE wrestling match, battling my way through clothing racks with an oversized stroller, only to find myself in a change room with one square foot of try-on space and a crying baby that wanted to breastfeed. Been there. Done that.

While pregnant, I often found myself waddling towards the back corner of a store to find a bare-bones maternity section. I gravitated towards non-maternity clothing, fashions that I could wear while pregnant and also after having a baby. That was my light-bulb moment. I wanted to help other women fill their wardrobes with stylish, affordable, multi-functional pieces with more of a shelf life than 9 months.

Two pregnancies later (and major body changes in between), I found my calling in helping women discover and maintain their fashionable-selves.

And that's how Pink Liberty—my third baby was born.

Full circle

A few years ago, I had the privilege of hearing one of my great heroes—Oprah Winfrey (yes, that Oprah) speak in-person. She talked about the thread in our lives that leads us to our life's path. For me—that thread began with fashion.

My journey began in my hometown Winnipeg, Manitoba—heart of the prairies. Most people think of Montreal or Toronto as the fashion hub of Canada. But in reality, Winnipeg was Canada's best-kept fashion secret. A blossoming hub of apparel manufacturing, all of my relatives—including my mother were master seamstresses and tailors. They immigrated in the seventies from the Philippines, escaping poverty to live the Canadian dream. I watched them work tirelessly in the garment industry, day-in and day-out for little pay. I vividly remember intricately tailored jackets, designer denim, detailed embroidery and specialty gowns often brought home as samples—all made with hard working hands.

There weren't many options for shopping, so my friends and I often designed our own clothing for special occasions. We would scour the fabric store for notions and would turn over those designs to our parents.

Growing up, I naturally rebelled against what was familiar, ignorant of the skill and talent required in assembling a garment. It wasn't until many years later, after studying Fashion Design at the Alberta College of Art and Design, that I grew to appreciate the skill, art and beauty of fashion.

Later, I went on to work in all areas of fashion retail for over 15 years. I sold everything—shoes, clothing and accessorized myself to death. I learned the importance of customer service and how to make a woman feel her best. The ultimate reward of all my years in retail happened when a customer would look in the mirror, pause and have a minor Beyonce 'feelin' myself' moment and smile.

Remember yourself

Fast-forward to today. As they say, fashion is in my blood. Part homage to my heritage, my family of boys and sprinkled with a whole lotta love—I built Pink Liberty to inspire women to remember themselves. I am surrounded by so many amazing women that make it look so easy. But we all know that mommin' is hard and we often forget to care for ourselves.

So—put on a little lipstick, a great outfit and take a deep breath, because you matter.

I’m hoping with this little community of moms and boss babes—we can do truly amazing things!

Treat yourself once in a while and always remember your inner fabulous-ity.

Thanks for listening and we hope you adore our little collection!

XOXO
Rowena—Owner/Curator of Pink Liberty

My rugrats, Brooklyn (right) and Grayson (left)

 

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