“I used to be uber-stylish from head to toe,” said 30-year old Estefanie “Eshma” Bautista-Dumama. But all these changed when she took the roles of a politician, a wife and a mother. She may have adjusted to her life as a councilor on her second term, but taking the role of wife last year, and more recently, a mother to 5-month old Sky, is definitely something new to her.

“These days I always keep my fashion and time very flexible. It’s a challenging 24/7 thing with the three hats I’m wearing. I don’t have a routine. Plans and schedules can change in a heartbeat depending on my baby’s mood and needs. So, there is no "typical day" for me. Every day yields new challenges.”

How does she do it? Let’s get to know this multi-tasker.

My day starts… 

..focused on the baby. I bond with Sky from the time he wakes up until noon. In between his naps, I check emails and schedules, update work assignments and give instructions while taking my morning coffee. I’m at the office by 1PM and work over lunch, go to sessions. I check on Sky from time to time.

Not easy, but I do my best. I’m on my first year of being a hands-on mom. I want to witness my baby’s first words, first steps, and considering I’m also a public servant 24/7, schedules can get challenging.

I’m lucky to have a husband-politician, we both understand what is required of our jobs. But we make sure we go out on a regular dates and keep the romance alive. 

One word to describe my role as a..

Politician: strict

Wife: patient.

Mom: Loving.

Working moms should never compromise style. Looking food makes you feel good. On Eshma: M&S Collection top & FlextFit jeggings

  

“Me time” is… 

 Coffee time. The calibre of on-the-go moms. 

My day to night look is… 

An oversized blazer, or a white button-down top and trousers, with light make-up. At night, I take off my blazer and accessorize. Eyes and lips take on a darker shade.

Flat sandals work best for me. It can take me from work to leisure at any time.

In my closet, you will find… 

Jeans, white tops, tailored oversized blazers, stylish cardigans, layered skirts, and wrap dresses.

My style has changed from very stylish—dark, fitted dresses and high heels, etc, to a more comfortable vintage look. I somehow developed this love for neutral-colored clothes.

I shop a lot! More for the baby and home these days. Priorities have changed with my new roles.

But I still shop for myself. I do it online when days get busy. I also have personal shoppers abroad. If I get extra time, shopping is the No.1 that pops in my head. A quick visit to the mall de-stresses me. 

My fashions tip is… 

...more on a principle. Go with whatever style you’re into but be age appropriate. Most importantly, for moms with multiple tasks and are always on the go, never compromise your style! Always try to look good. Not enough sleep is no excuse for not looking your best.

When you look good, you’ll feel good and feel energized. Thus, we can accomplish anything even with few hours of sleep.   

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