Tory Burch only launched her eponymous label in 2004, but a mere five years later it is an international success that can famously claim Oprah, Cameron Diaz, and Uma Thurman among its fans. Though her company continues to soar, the designer's top priority is planted firmly at home. You see, Burch is the mother of six (three sons and three stepdaughters!) which tends to keeps things in perspective. Want to find out how she does it all? Read her tips for balancing a hectic life with style and panache, here. Tory Burchs 10 Tips for Living a Full Life
Balancing work and motherhood is definitely my biggest challenge. As a mother of three young boys and three stepdaughters it is all about time management. When I'm the in the office I stay focused which is easy because I love to design and work with my team. Our goal has always been to create clothing and accessories that compliment a woman's busy lifestyle. Like our customer, I want to look great whether I'm running errands with my children, going to the office or out to dinner with friends. Women don't have a lot of time to worry about what they are wearing so we really focus on creating chic and versatile pieces. Much like raising my children, I have such a sense of accomplishment developing each new collection. I am grateful that I have had them by my side as our company has grown from a small operation in my apartment to the global brand it is today.
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1. ALWAYS PUT YOUR CHILDREN FIRST
My children come first and then everything falls into place around them. I love working, but being a mother is my priority. I take my boys to school every morning and I am home by 5:30 to help them with their homework and have dinner. I often catch up on work after they have gone to bed.
Courtesy of Tory Burch
2. GIVE BACK
Philanthropy is incredibly important to me and I'm always trying to think of unique ways to give back. My brother, Jamie, and I came up with the idea of putting together a compilation CD of a diverse range of music (from rock to jazz to world music) and selling it in our boutiques and on ToryBurch.com. The proceeds benefit Save The Children and we plan on releasing a second CD in December to benefit another charity. I'm also very involved with Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center. I often talk to my children about the importance of giving back.
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3. TAKE CARE OF YOURSELF
I usually wake up at 6 A.M. so I can work out before my boys wake up. On the weekends I love to take them to Central Park or meet friends for a game of tennis. No matter how busy you are it is important to take time for yourself.
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4. PROTECT YOUR SKIN
My beauty regime is very easy. I often leave the house with tinted moisturizer and wet hair. I do make an effort to take care of my skin. At the beach I wear a straw hat I found in Marrakesh and Pat Wexler's sunscreen.
Courtesy of Tory Burch
5. SURROUND YOURSELF WITH COLOR
Colors always make me happy. On my desk I often have a simple arrangement of orange poppies. It is an Instant mood elevator.
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6. ENTERTAIN WITH EASE
For me, entertaining at home is all about creating a relaxed environment and keeping things simple. The other night I ordered in Moroccan food and served it buffet style in the living room. I used votive candles and my favorite embroidered linen napkins. Presenting things nicely makes all the difference and does not have to take a lot of time.
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7. LISTEN TO MUSIC
I'm obsessed with music and am constantly downloading songs from iTunes. I love getting suggestions from my boys and my stepdaughters about new music. My taste is eclectic I like everything from Asa to the Kings of Leon.
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8. CULTIVATE YOUR PERSONAL STYLE
The key to looking chic is to wear what looks best on you.
I love fashion and pay attention to trends but don't necessarily always follow them too literally. I like to experiment and tend to wear unusual mixes of color and prints.
Venice Long Caftan, $695, is available at ToryBurch.com.
Courtesy of Tory Burch
9. APPRECIATE YOUR MOTHER
Having children of my own has only made me appreciate my parents more. My mother, Reva, is my biggest inspiration and good luck charm. She never thought she would be famous for a shoe!
Snake print Reva Ballerina Flat, $235, available at ToryBurch.com.
Courtesy of Tory Burch
