As part of our International Women's Day spotlight, we talk to Singaporean designer, Ee-Lyn Tang and mom of twins. Starting her career in the banking industry, Eelyn moved on to pursue her passion at the Parsons School of Design in New York before starting her own bridal label, Love Yu. After the birth of her twins in 2015, Ee-Lyn launched Sum of The Parts (SOTP) in 2019.

1. What was your inspiration behind SOTP?

It has been over 10 years since I started designing bridal gowns for Love, Yu. While it is still satisfying working with brides to be, I wanted to work on something that resonated with ladies like myself - women in their mid 30s to early 50s, working women, many who are mums. I wanted to slow down fashion and start a label made up of good quality classic styles that are easy to mix and match. Staple pieces for your wardrobe. 

2. What challenges have you faced along the way?

I think the same challenges many small businesses face. Navigating the pandemic years a year after our launch was a challenge. We are a small team, which means being hands on with every aspect of the business. It is a great way to learn the business inside out, but it can be tricky to switch focus between the daily to dos and business planning.

3. What is it like being a mother of twins?

It was tough being a mum of twins the first year. I wanted to be the main caregiver, which meant many nights of interrupted sleep. Breast feeding and lack of sleep took a toll on me - I lost a lot of weight and even cracked a tooth from the lack of calcium! (not to mention more wrinkles and white hair) But it's really wonderful now that they are older and can play together and keep each other company, as siblings do.

4. If you had one piece of advice to a new mom, what would it be?

I think so many of us feel pressured to do things you think mums should do (no thanks to social media), such as breastfeeding exclusively, juggling work and being a mum/wife like a pro, giving birth without epidural, the list goes on. So my advice would be to cut yourself some slack. Do your best but be fine when things don't go your way. 

Enjoy 15% off at Sum of the Parts (SOTP) with code "BABYCENTRAL15". Valid till 8 April 2023.