Regine Panlilio-Samson: From Shoemaker to Interior Designer
MANILA, Philippines - Fresh-faced beauty Regine Panlilio-Samson, stepping out in denim cutoffs, sandals and a clean ponytail, looks like your typical college student enjoying the weekend break and not the young wife and mother that she is. But the little boy in the background, looking directly at you with mild curiosity, gives credence to her motherhood. “That’s my younger son, Milo. He’s one and a half. I have another son, Vito, who’s four,” Regine explains, her voice soft and calm, as if she had never raised a voice to discipline a pet, let alone two toddler sons who are big for their ages.
This devoted mother and wife to husband, businessman Von Samson, finished AB Humanities at Ateneo de Manila University where she and Von were schoolmates. But right now, she is actually still a student just waiting to take the board exams for interior design in October.
Prior to enrolling at the Philippine School of Interior Design (PSID), however, Regine was involved in design of a different kind. Her husband Von’s parents — Manolo Samson and Lenita Santos-Samson — belong to a renowned and respected clan of shoe manufacturers in Marikina (they’re behind shoe chains Otto and Itti), which made it easy for the couple to put up their own shoe store in Tiendesitas — but only after both taking a short course on pattern-making in Marikina. “We sold sandals and ballet flats and our market catered to both men and women. I have to say coming up with a pattern is harder than you think — it can be very technical.” They had to close shop when Regine went full-time with her studies.
She shows me a design book that has greatly influenced her while she was studying. It’s Kelly Hoppen’s Home: From Concept to Reality. “I would like to follow that kind of style,” she explains. The glossy photos show clean, classic designs punctuated with modern design technology and some futuristic accessorizing. Classic meets contemporary, which is also how she likes her clothing.
A great fan of basics, Regine plays up her wardrobe by piling on the chunky jewelry and indulging in bags and shoes. She tells us more about how she balances school, motherhood and style.
THE PHILIPPINE STAR: How would you describe your style?
REGINE PANLILIO-SAMSON: I’m more of a basics person. My everyday getup would consist of jeans and a basic top, then I would just accessorize to add some color. There was a time when black, white and neutral pieces filled up most of my closet but, over the years, I have learned to add splashes of color to my wardrobe.
Where do you love to shop?
I like shopping at the mall. Some of my favorite stores are Mango and Topshop. But I also like bazaar shopping because it’s there that you can find one-of-a-kind pieces.
What can you never resist buying?
White or black shirts, whether round neck, button down or sleeveless. I always feel I could never have too many of these.
Describe your shopping style.
I have shopping moods or spurts. When I’m not in my moment, I don’t buy anything at all even if I’m in the mall and the collection looks so enticing and inviting, but when my shopping mood kicks in, I go crazy buying. It probably makes up for my “not-in-the-mood” moments.
Whose style do you admire?
I find inspiration in a number of people. I enjoy looking at pegs, especially on celebrities such as Jessica Alba and Rachel Bilson. Their styles are trendy but still border on the classic.
What is your favorite piece of clothing?
Jeans. You can never go wrong with a good pair.
Who are your favorite designers?
I don’t have any one in particular. As long as it fits my style, then I’m content. I appreciate Rachel Zoe, though, as a stylist.
Ever had a fashion disaster?
Yes, involving the wrong type of undergarment. But nothing majorly drastic.
What do you indulge in?
Shoes and bags.
Any cheap thrills?
Bazaar shopping. You can find so much variety in one space. And every so often, unique but reasonably priced pieces can be found in bazaars.
You’re just waiting to take the board exams in interior design. What is your dream project?
My dream project would be to design a residential space without a budget.
Of the interior designers you’ve studied, whose works do you admire?
I really admire the works of Kelly Hoppen. I love how she mixes neutral palettes with bold elements and different textures. Another would be Kelly Wearstler.
How would you describe your design aesthetic?
I like the mix of contemporary and classic elements — something like period architecture infused with modern pieces. I like cozy spaces and the lived-in feeling of a place while still maintaining order.
Do you collect anything?
Right now, my major collection would be books. It’s my dream to have a floor-to-ceiling library in my house filled with design books.
What’s the best thing about being a young mom?
Being a young mom allows me to take active participation in my kids’ activities. I feel I still have the energy to be hands-on with them and, at the same time, as they are growing, I feel I am also growing and learning alongside them. Also, since I come from a big family where the age gaps are big, it’s as though my kids are like my siblings, but more disciplined, of course.
What are you looking forward to when your children get older?
I am really looking forward to traveling with my family. It is my dream for us to be able to take them to different countries and for them to experience different cultures.
How do you bond with your kids?
Family time is usually spent in the mall. My eldest son really enjoys looking at the toys in the toy store so it’s usually his request for us to bring them there. Other than that, family time is just hanging at home together.
Where would you go for some alone time?
My sanctuary is my dressing room/office. This is my place of quiet and also my workstation. All my paraphernalia can be found in my space so when I need quiet time, I hide in there and think about the things going on around me. I also like writing journals. It acts as my stress reliever and it also helps me sort out my thoughts for the moment.
