Ciao! Do I sound quite different? Allow me please. I am just excited that my first interview feature for the year 2013 is a Filipina who followed her heart and found love in one of the fashion capital of the world. Meet Bambi Eyes of The Milano Mode and let’s find out how her zest for life, love for writing and passion for fashion found its niche in Milan, Italy.
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According to Bambi, “when it comes to styling. I will start with a bag, simply because it normally defines the whole look or the tonality of colors I need to associate with my outfit.”
Who are you? What do you do? Where do you live?
Ciao everyone! My real name is Rosaly Escueta but I am using my blog name as Bambi Eyes. In other words, Bambi Eyes because I have dark brown Bambi Eyes and Bambi is my nickname. I am originaly from the beautiful tropicals of the Philippines. Currently I am residing in Milan, Italy with my husband. I used to work as a reporter/writer for radio, tv & newspaper in my country and in Hong Kong. Later on, I work for an international bank in the Philippines. Right now, I work as a blog publisher of www.themilanomode.com.
When did your passion for writing and fashion came to life and how it became such a hit in your blog?
WRITING. I used to write since I was 14 years old and won a lot of writing and speaking contest in high school and in university. I became the youngest Editor-in-Chief of our newspaper in such a tender sophomore year in high school. In college, I took-up Bachelor of Science in Mass Communications major in Broadcasting to have a taste of both worlds – writing and speaking. I was also an editorial staff of our college paper back then. I am really grateful to my high school teacher who really hone me to write and for my schools for sending me to trainings and contests to better my craft. Aside, when internet was not yet available then, I was a book worm so I guess from there sprung naturally my passion for writing.
FASHION. My passion for fashion is another thing. My mom had a big influence on my love for fashion. When we were young she used to buy us pretty doll dresses. It makes me laugh until now how I love my Hello Kitty and pink checkered dresses with Peter Pan or sailor collars. Me and my elder sister who is a year older than me used to play with my mom’s lipstick and heels – so there you can see that at a young age I loved to dress-up.
HIT.I started my blog just to have an outlet to write and also to divert my creative energy after finishing a Shoe Course at the European Institute of Design here in Milan. But then again, Milan’s vibrant fashion scene is a good playground for me to go to fashion fairs, to meet some designers in person and be invited to some fashion shows.
- My readers began appreciating my work when I tried to post clear photos and write simple but honest reviews.
- Knowing your audience is also important. So, I asked for their opinions on my social medias so that I can give them a better post next time.
- I write in English & Italian. Half of my audience are from Italy so it is important for me that I talk to them on a language they can understand me most. I guess that’s pretty it.
It really gets me confused sometimes, which is really the Fashion Capital of the world? Paris or Milan? Can you describe the fashion scene in Milan?
Both are fashion capitals of the world. There’s also New York, London and Tokyo. Milan’s fashion scene is creative, elegant and free. A lot of big brands in the fashion industry were born on this city. Milan host one of the big fashion fairs every year so buyers and press from all over the world come to town to order the next season’s collection or write about it. Then comes Milan Fashion Week, you can see on the streets a lot of tall, slender and young models with their books who go to go see’s or fashion shows. Street style photographers and bloggers are everywhere along with their big camera lenses and cool outfits. The fashion districts like Via Montenapoleone, Piazza Duomo and etc. are flooded by tourists mostly Asians who are carrying a lot of Gucci or Prada shopping bags on both hands. I have been to Paris but Milanaise people dress very elegantly especially those older ones. They wear pretty details like a silver brooch or a colorful scarf. There are also many fashion schools in this city. Here you can see a lot of creativity because those who take three-year courses they really have to hold a real fashion show with big brands as audience. Also with the rise of high street fashion, among younger generation they sport a lot of cool and comfy outfits but never forgetting to be free – like their youth!
You are one of the known bloggers in Italy, how was it like to be a Filipino establishing your niche in the blogosphere in a different country. Can you share some experiences?
Thank you, that’s so kind of you. I think I am not yet there but I am working my way to that stage. However, establishing a certain niche is very challenging.
- I tried to study my stats,
- the behaviour of my audience,
- being timely with fashion events,
- I add value to the content of my post and
- being creative on my outfits and showing my personality on my looks.
Reading your blog makes me want to hop on a jet and fly to Milan and ransack all those vintage shops. What are the top 3 most valued and loved items you were able to purchase in a vintage shop?
That sounds really interesting – lol! Yes, I have found a lot of treasures on these vintage shops and don’t be surprise they’re all bags!
Laura Biagiotti Bag
Cartier Clutch
Lady Dior Bag
What are the top 5 items in your closet right now that you can’t live without?
Swarovski Cuff
YSL Clutch
Givenchy Antigona Bag
Prada Sandals
Martin Margiela at H&M red invisible pumps
What are you currently coveting right now (wish list)?
Dear Lord – please give me this pair of red Valentino shoes!
What are your hobbies?
- I like to watch a lot of feel-good, adventure, drama & thriller films.
- Go to vintage shops on weekends
- Make photo collage on instagram @themilanomode
Describe yourself in 3 or more words.
Down-to-earth, with sense of humor and virtually accessible.
Any message to your followers?
I love you all and thank you not just because you are following me but also for being a part of me. You are beyond a relative or a family member because I talk to you almost everyday. We share the same passion, we travel together on that journey called life. I hope to continue sharing a piece of me to you and you to me – for a long time. I can’t think of the best way to end this interview but shine bright like diamonds in the sky!
photos courtesy of Bambi Eyes
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Awww! Thanks a a lot Bambi for sharing a piece of your time in this interview. I enjoyed it. In fact, I still have some questions running through my mind as of this writing but I’ll just reserve it for maybe a Part 2?
Hey guys, if you are like me who wants to visit Milan, Italy (in fact I just asked Rolex right now if we can fly to Milan soon), check out Bambi’s blog www.themilanomode.com, its the ultimate guide in Milan fashion. This link will also guide you about shopping in Milan.
Cheers! Ciao!
