‘You can’t do it all – the juggle is real’
Millie Mackintosh on the need for compromise, being more sustainable with fashion and what motherhood has taught her
Anyone who follows Millie Mackintosh on Instagram will know that style is her middle name. The pregnant mum’s grid is filled with amazing outfits and looks that give us inspo on how to dress.
But Millie, 32, isn’t all about fast fashion these days. In fact, if lockdown taught her anything it’s that having a good wardrobe sort out can help clear the mind. And even better, donating old clothes to charity can really make a difference.
“Whenever I notice clothes that I no longer wear or want any more, I like to make sure someone else gets to appreciate them,” she says.
And the star admits that since becoming a mum to 17-month-old Sienna, she feels particularly “connected” to charities that focus on children’s health.
So, it’s no surprise to learn that Millie has paired up with TK Maxx to launch its Give Up Clothes For Good campaign. This initiative encourages people to drop off pre-loved clothes at TK Maxx so they can be donated to Cancer Research UK shops and raise money for children with the disease.
Here, Millie, who’s married to her former
Made In Chelsea co-star Hugo Taylor, 35, tells us why she’d never rule out doing another reality show and all about her latest pregnancy…
How are you finding this pregnancy, Millie?
In some ways it’s easier as I know what to expect and my symptoms have been very similar to when I was pregnant with Sienna. I do feel more like myself this time. However, with Sienna now running around I’m more mobile, which isn’t always the best for my pelvic pain!
Is Sienna looking forward to having a baby sister?
She’s a little too young to understand but she does know something is growing in my tummy. She likes to rest her head on me and stroke my bump, which is cute.
Have you had many cravings?
Mainly sweet and salty flavour combinations, cereal, lots of juicy fruit and fizzy water.
Do you have time for self-care?
Self-care is really important as I need to offset all the weird and not so wonderful symptoms. I’m taking comfort in pregnancy massages and lots of bubble baths.
That sounds perfect! What’s the biggest thing you’ve learnt since becoming a mum?
I’ve learnt that you can’t do it all, all the time. The juggle is real. It’s hard to balance being a mum, a wife, working, socialising and making time for exercise and self-care. I’ve realised it’s not possible to do it all and that’s OK. If you want to keep your sanity, ask for help.
What’s been the hardest thing about becoming a parent? Saying goodbye to restful weekends. All we used to do was watch TV shows on the sofa.
Fashion is clearly really important to you.Why did you decide to work with the Give Up Clothes For Good campaign alongside TK Maxx?
There’s nothing better than being invited to support amazing initiatives that have such positive and heartwarming effects. I jumped at the chance to be involved with this campaign, which is helping to raise money for Cancer Research UK For Children AndYoung People. The admiration that I have for any family dealing with children’s cancer is so much more now that I am a mother-of-one with another on the way. Any support that I can give and anything I can do to protect children’s health is hugely important.
It’s a great cause! Do you think it’s important that we all start to put a bit more thought into how we shop these days?
I’m much more aware of how I shop now and I do have that internal dialogue and think,“How much will I wear this item?” before I buy. I personally feel that most people, when they can, are being more present with their choices. We don’t always have to buy something in order to wear something new. I really love all the rental and pre-loved companies and brands that are easily available now.
Are you a hoarder?
In the past I’ve been known to hoard things but as the family has grown, making room for new arrivals has become important. I try to do a clear out once or twice a year and be really strict with myself. Anything I no longer wear goes.
What are your favourite go-to outfits in your wardrobe at the moment?
Being eight months pregnant,
I am leaning more towards comfort or anything floaty and stretchy. I love having a bump – it’s such a beautiful, feminine journey and I do really enjoy dressing for pregnancy. But I have to admit, my Birkenstocks are getting a lot of love right now.
You rose to fame on Made In Chelsea.Would you ever let the cameras into your home and do another reality show about life as a mum?
If life has taught me anything over the past few years it’s that anything is possible. I’m a firm believer in never say never.
Millie Mackintosh is supporting TK Maxx’s Give Up Clothes For Good campaign in support of Cancer Research UK For Children And Young People
‘If you want to keep your sanity, ask for help’