Mannolly Castillo has been around these parts for a long while now, showcasing the colour and pattern that Blanca loves best. Originally from Venezuela, she now calls Melbourne home, keeping (ridiculously) busy as a freelance content creator, social media manager at Ripe Maternity and the curator and owner of The Bagchive. Launched in 2023, this online destination is a one-stop shop for vintage designer bags (beautiful words to our ears and the perfect accessory for an oversized blazer and relaxed trouser look). And she's mum to Manuel – "which is the most important role I have."

Low on time but high on the inspiration scale, we asked Mannolly about her personal style, her Melbourne recommendations and, of course, her favourite vintage bags.

On her personal style evolution:

My style has undergone quite a transformation. In my younger years, I was all about trying every trend under the sun. But when I became a mum five years ago, I experienced an identity shift, which led me to reassess my wardrobe. I did a major closet purge and began building a collection of pieces that I genuinely love and can see myself wearing for years to come. 

My style is much more curated, conscious, and comfortable, yet I always aim to keep it elevated. I lean towards oversized silhouettes, vibrant colours, and rich textures, with an unexpected twist that makes the outfit uniquely mine. I love doing my own thing and just have fun without taking it too seriously.

On ‘you’ outfits:

For me, it’s all about that one piece that adds an unexpected twist. I love incorporating something that stands out and makes the outfit feel authentically mine. My style often features a mix of textures, colour blocking, or a matchy-matchy vibe, depending on my mood. I enjoy layering and playing with masculine silhouettes, adding a feminine touch to make them my own. 

I love mixing newer items with something that has a lived-in feel. Vintage bags are a staple—they add a sense of history and uniqueness to any look.

On her go-to items:

I’m definitely someone who repeats outfits I love. If something works, I wear it non-stop! My most-worn items include a vintage Louis Vuitton Montsouris backpack and a ‘90s Fendi denim Baguette with appliques.

On her ‘average’ day:

My day starts with a rush—getting my son ready for prep and myself for the day. We walk to school, which is my favourite time to chat with him. When I’m not at the office or on location for Ripe, I work from home or shoot for other brands. I juggle tasks, fit in a Pilates session twice a week, and wrap up everything before school pick-up. After that, it’s all about quality time with my son. What I am wearing depends 100% on my mood that day.

On balancing the many plates of life via clothing:

Choosing an outfit I’m comfortable in boosts my confidence and productivity. Curating my wardrobe with pieces that work for me makes getting dressed quicker, which is essential for us mums. It’s a work in progress, but I’m taking it step by step—no rush.

On the perfect vintage bag:

I look for a mix of timeless classics that would be a wardrobe staple for anyone, along with rare treasures. I’m especially drawn to treasures like the Dior Rasta by John Galliano and LV’s special collaborations. The curation process is what I love most—I take great pride in hand-picking bags that have a history and offer unmatched quality that we don't often see in bags today. There’s something so special about owning a piece with a story behind it.

On the daily essentials:

I never leave home without my phone, film camera, keys (if I don't forget them lol), a Westman Atelier stick blush, Kosas lip oil, and snacks for my son.

 

On curating her space:

We’re renting at the moment, so I can’t make too many changes, but we’ve been slowly investing in furniture that we love and plan to keep for the long term, rather than just buying pieces that only work for this space. I took inspiration from my own closet to build a palette I love – just like my wardrobe, it's not a race, and I want to slowly collect pieces that truly resonate with us.

Ôn finding inspiration:

[I find it] everywhere! Since becoming a mum, I’ve become more mindful and appreciate the world through my son’s eyes, especially when it comes to nature.

I’m always inspired by films (Sofia Coppola’s work), and I love diving into ‘90s runways and Pinterest rabbit holes.

 

On resetting and relaxing:

A hot shower, skincare routine, and then either a good book or binge-watching a show.

 

On our weekend plans:

We’d definitely eat! Melbourne has so many great spots. 

For matcha and a chat, I love Ikkari, Little Rogue, and Tori’s in the CBD. NGV for art and vibes. We’d stroll around Gertrude Street in Fitzroy, and hit up Carlton Gardens with some pastries from Morning Market (if we're lucky with good weather). Dinner would be at Cumulus Inc, Reine & La Rue, Gimlet, or Tipo 00—they’re all consistently great.

 

Mannolly wears: Jerico Shirt in Red, Danica Jacket in Denim and Reliquia Jewellery Nevaeh Earrings.