Francesca McGraw on Style, Motherhood, and Making It All Work

There are superheroes who aren’t part of the Marvel Universe or DC Comics — they help us navigate the daily grind and are always there to lend a hand when we need it most.

We call them moms. Whether it’s the way they listen, support, or guide us, their impact is undeniable.

Mother’s Day is also a day to celebrate all the different forms of motherhood — biological, adopted, chosen — and the unique bonds that come with each.

With the holiday just around the corner, we sat down with our Head of Merchandising, Francesca McGraw, who shared her favorite memories with her mom, her minimalist approach to style, the power of a necktie and bandana, and the lessons she’s learned about herself since becoming a mother.

MOTHER’S DAY SELECTS

The Tie Bar: How has your style evolved since becoming a mom?

Francesca McGraw: I’d say I’ve always believed that less is more. And now, as a mom, styling with purpose feels even more important. I tend to prioritize just one — maybe two — accessories. You know, something like a timeless watch, a statement bracelet, or a colorful scarf — something I can easily throw on. But more importantly, something my very strong, curious baby won’t be yanking off. I had to say goodbye to earrings recently, so that was that.

But that’s actually why I love bandanas. They add something special to any outfit, they keep you warm on those unpredictable Chicago spring days, and — bonus — they can double as a peek-a-boo accessory when my daughter starts to get antsy.

I try to keep things very minimal. I usually just stash the baby essentials in my purse — I don’t typically carry a diaper bag — so there’s not a lot of room for extra toys or things like that. Knock on wood, that hasn’t been an issue yet. But that’s exactly why I love accessories like a bandana — they can serve multiple purposes.

Also, I’ve noticed I wear a lot of neutrals, and without even meaning to, I end up matching my daughter. I guess it makes sense since I’m the one buying her clothes. But sometimes we walk out the door and my husband’s like, “Oh, you two are matching,” and I’m like, “That was not on purpose!” I love pairing a neutral base with a nice color pop or a floral pattern — something that adds a little fun to the look.

What’s something you appreciate about your mom now that you have kids of your own?

FM: I know my mom is the most generous person I’ve ever known. From the amount of time she dedicates to others — whether it’s her kids, her friends, or her family — she never really puts herself first. She always puts everyone else ahead of her. That’s something I’ve come to realize is of the utmost importance. Everything else comes second.

Now that I have a daughter, she’s my number one. And I really value all the sacrifices my mom made for me. I definitely notice and appreciate them now more than ever.

TTB: What’s your favorite memory with your mom?

FM: We both love to travel, so we went everywhere. I mostly grew up in Europe, in Paris, and we traveled a lot. My parents are big beach people — they love sunshine, good food, and that laid-back vibe.

One of my favorite memories is that we always brought our dog along. There were hardly any vacations where she wasn’t with us. We mostly traveled by train just so we could bring her. We’d kind of smuggle her onto overnight trains, and it was like she knew she wasn’t technically allowed. She’d stay perfectly quiet when the conductor came by, hiding in her little bag — and then, the moment we arrived in Spain or wherever we were going, she’d be the happiest pup in the world.

My mom always made sure vacations were meaningful for the whole family — restful, fun, and also enriching. We’d sometimes take Spanish classes while we were away, or do something that added a learning element to the trip.

Now that I have a daughter, I hope I can replicate that. Right now, her favorite thing is our dog — and I’d love to continue that tradition and bring the dog along on our adventures too.

TTB: What’s the best lesson she’s ever taught you?

FM: Feel like, be like — just forgive yourself. You know, things are going to happen. As long as you’re learning from your mistakes, it’s okay to take them with grace. Keep your head up and keep moving forward.

Mistakes are weird — they can lead us down unexpected paths and shape who we are. But as long as we’re learning from them, it’s all part of the journey. They’re going to happen, and that’s okay.

TTB: Do you have any Mother’s Day traditions?

FM: You know, I don’t like to put too much emphasis on the day itself. Also, my daughter isn’t even one yet — she’ll turn one next month. So really, last year, my first Mother’s Day, she was just a month old.

That said, I always like to point out that my family does an amazing job of making every day feel like Mother’s Day. But with a one-year-old, it’s important to stop and really soak it all in — the cuddles, the laughter, the new babbles, the sweet little gestures.

Right now, we’re in this easy groove, like we’ve figured out this particular moment. I’m sure in two weeks something will shift and we’ll be learning all over again, but for now, it’s fun and it feels light.

And honestly, I do love good food — so any excuse for a brunch or a great meal out is always a welcome bonus. My husband loves to cook, so I’m really looking forward to future Mother’s Days. I imagine my daughter and him prepping the day together, which I think will make for such a sweet tradition.

TTB: How do you like to incorporate accessories for a Mother’s Day brunch or breakfast?

FM: I love scarves and bandanas — they serve a dual purpose. I’m also really into the menswear-inspired accessories for women that I’ve been seeing lately. And for anyone nervous about trying that look, it doesn’t have to be super traditional. It’s not about tying a necktie in the classic way. I love the idea of throwing a necktie on like a scarf — something unexpected and different.

When I was in Paris a couple weeks ago, I saw people wearing ties as belts, which I thought was so cool. Right now, I’m all about keeping my decisions simple, so I love the idea of tossing on a last-minute accessory that feels spontaneous and fresh.

My style is very feminine, but I love the contrast of mixing in something totally different. That’s why I’m into the look — and the idea — of pairing a flowy skirt with a necktie or scarf around the neck. It’s all about that balance.

TTB: What’s something unexpected you’ve learned from your daughter?

FM: I feel like any time before she was born, if I ever complained about being tired or not having enough time — honestly, I don’t know what I was thinking. It’s crazy. Now I can function on five hours of sleep and feel like I got a full night’s rest. Before, that would’ve meant canceling the day or accepting that I wasn’t getting much done.

It’s wild to look back and wonder where all that time used to go. These days, I’m amazed at how much you can actually accomplish in a day — and still feel fulfilled. And somehow, even though I’m more exhausted than ever, she brings so much energy into my life. I just feel more ready to take on the whole day.

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