Ilana Torbiner on Motherhood and Meaningful Gifting

Rip & Tan: First things first—happy early first Mother’s Day! How are you planning on spending the day? Any ideas on what you’re wearing?

Ilana Torbiner: Thank you! We’re planning to spend the day at my parents’ house with my sister and grandparents. I’m lucky to have my grandparents around, and it’s always special when all 4 generations get together. My mom is putting together brunch, and hopefully I’ll sneak in some time to read and just relax. 

I’ll be wearing the Newport Trousers, a t-shirt and the Hutton Slides. Depending on the weather, I might throw on the Leo Trench.

Rip & Tan: Is there anything on your wishlist this year? What kind of gifts mean the most to you? 

Ilana Torbiner: I would love a nice leather photo album to house all the photos from Willa’s first year, and our first year as a family. I’ve become more sentimental with gift giving, and the gifts I love to receive most are the ones that stand the test of time.

Rip & Tan: Your daughter is close to a year old now—what are the biggest lessons you’ve learned since becoming a mom?

Ilana Torbiner: Since having Willa, I’ve quickly learned that most things aren’t that serious. I don’t have the energy or time to stress over the small things anymore. I’ve also developed a greater appreciation for the simple things. Everything becomes so much more exciting when you’re viewing the world through your baby’s eyes.

Rip & Tan: Has becoming a mom changed what Mother’s Day means to you? Or how you’ve approached celebrating the moms in your life?

Ilana Torbiner: It feels more personal now. I’ve developed a newfound respect and a stronger sense of appreciation for moms everywhere. And I certainly feel more gratitude for my own mom. The amount of love, effort, and selflessness that goes into motherhood deserves more than just a day of celebration. 

Rip & Tan: How has motherhood impacted your style?

Ilana Torbiner: Getting dressed has become more about efficiency than self-expression these days.  I have faith that in the coming months, as we continue developing our groove, I’ll find more time to devote to myself and getting dressed. I’ve also become much more comfortable with a mess—more often than not, I have mushed banana on my clothes by the end of the day.

Rip & Tan: When in doubt, what’s one gift any mother would love?

Ilana Torbiner: This might sound contradictory, but I would love a day of zero questions. Is there a greater gift than just being able to turn your brain off? On the more tangible side, jewelry never hurts, or a matching set of pajamas for you and your baby is always sweet. 

Ilana's Gift List

I always love gifting the Alpaca Basketweave Throw. The Relaxation Bath Set from Oak Essentials is another beautiful gift. In the past, I’ve gifted the Cooper Cardigan to my mom. This year I’m doing the Harper Dress since she lives in Jenni Kayne dresses during the spring and summer. For my grandma, I’m gifting the Charlotte Cardigan. 

Underwater Weaving Studio makes beautiful and versatile baskets. They’re great for accessorizing, hosting, or trips to the market. A meaningful piece of jewelry is always a safe bet, and you can’t go wrong with any of the designs from Almasika. I also love the lacquered jewelry boxes from Trove.