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Our Journals: Tori Ambler

Tori Ambler

Tori Ambler

Tori Ambler is one of New Zealand’s leading stylists, known for her refined eye and effortless, understated style. With over 20 years in the industry, she balances her creative work with motherhood, bringing care, presence, and beauty into everything she does. This Mother’s Day, we celebrate women like Tori, who move through both worlds with grace and intention.

How has becoming a mother shaped your style? Do you find your approach to getting dressed has changed since having children?

Motherhood has been the ultimate style editor for me. These days, my wardrobe is all about comfort and ease, but never at the expense of feeling put together and stylish. I gravitate towards wide-leg trousers, oversized shirts, and blazers. Pieces that slip on in a flash but still make me feel like myself, even when I’m running around after two endlessly energetic boys. I’ve learned that style and practicality can absolutely coexist; it’s just about finding those hero pieces that work as hard as you do. I love to finish off even the simplest outfit with a touch of beautiful, understated jewellery - a little daily luxury that makes my go-to classics feel special.

At Zoë & Morgan, we believe in creating beauty that empowers. What advice would you give to mothers trying to hold space for themselves? Their creativity, their identity, while raising little ones?

When I first had the boys and became a mum, my spicy midwife Deb made it very clear that my mental health was top priority. She drilled into me that if I felt great and looked after myself, everything else would fall into place (or at least be less likely to fall apart before breakfast!). So I try to carve out a little time for myself every day, even if it’s just a quick walk around the block in the evening, a slick of liquid eyeliner in the morning to look slightly polished, or adding a beautiful pair of earrings to elevate my daily outfit. These tiny rituals help me hold onto my creativity and sense of self, even when it feels like I’m more of a child-uber than a stylist!

I’ve noticed that when I take care of myself, the whole energy of our home lifts. We’re all a bit calmer, a bit kinder, and I’m less likely to lose my cool over the eleventh ‘ok mum, would you rather…’ question for the day. My advice? Don’t feel guilty about putting yourself on your own priority list. For me, even tiny acts of self-care ripple out and make a huge difference to me and my family

What are some rituals or moments that help you feel grounded, especially on days that feel a little overwhelming?

Walking is my ultimate reset button. There’s something about lacing up my trainers, diving deep into a true crime podcast (strangely soothing, I promise!), and just moving that helps me recalibrate. Forty-five minutes later, I feel like I’ve reclaimed a little piece of myself, ready to take on whatever the day (or the twins) throws at me.

I’ve also recently started a daily ten-minute facial massage routine. It’s such a small thing, but it feels like a luxurious pause just for me. Between my walks and this little ritual, I manage to find moments of calm and quiet amidst the busyness of daily life.

You’re raising boys in a beautifully visual world. Do they ever comment on your style or jewellery choices? Can you give us an example?

Absolutely! The boys are my unofficial (and very honest) style critics. I often enlist them to help me pick out my outfit in the morning, and their feedback - delivered with the utmost seriousness - always makes me smile. Their fresh take keeps me on my toes as a stylist!

Most days, I’m in oversized shirts and trousers, but when I dress up (think makeup, a dress, actual heels), they’re the first to notice and shower me with the sweetest compliments.

Both of them love a bit of jewellery or an accessory, just like their mum. We just got back from a dreamy week in Fiji, and they’ve been proudly sporting their carved shell necklaces to school every day. I love seeing them flex their style and express themselves in their own ways.

What values or lessons do you hope to pass on to your sons, especially when it comes to
self-expression and confidence?

I truly believe my boys are the most extraordinary little humans, and I want them to feel that in their bones. I make a point to remind them every day that they’re perfect just as they are, quirks and all.

Despite being identical twins, they couldn’t be more different, and my husband and I do our best to celebrate what makes each of them unique. Whether it’s a swimming win, a wild drawing, or an obscure insect fact, we want them to know that their individuality is something to be celebrated, not hidden. Eight has been a rollercoaster of a year for them, lots of big feelings and learning for them.

My hope is that they grow up with the confidence to be unapologetically themselves, to support each other, and to see the magic in standing out. If they carry that with them, I’ll feel like we’ve done something right!

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