Being a mom has influenced every aspect of my life…even my personal style!
After my son was born, I had to re-evaluate who I was in the world of fashion, and figure out how I could be stylish and practical at the same itme.
At one point, I just threw in the towel. If I couldn’t wear 5-inch heels on a Tuesday, I just didn’t see the point! Then one day I looked in the mirror and decided something needed to change
If you’ve found yourself in a similar situation, here are five ways that you can re-invent your mommy wardrobe!
1. Cute Workout Clothes: When you’re a mom, it can be difficult to carve out time for the gym, but that doesn’t mean you’re not exercising in other ways. Today, I enjoy epic walks and hours in the sand box with my son. I wear workout gear for at least half of the day…sometimes the entire day!
Related: Don’t Sweat It: Figure Flattering Workout Wear
At first, I felt a bit depressed that I was never getting “dressed”, then I thought: I can choose to roll with baggy, non-matching sweats, or I can kick things up a notch and put on a fitted yoga pant and matching jacket.
I decided on the latter, and I haven’t looked back. It’s made a HUGE difference in my mood, my body image, and my overall happiness. That’s why I urge you to spend some of your hard earned cash here. Look for pieces that you can mix, match and layer. Take things a step further and pick a trendy color, unique detail, or funky embellishment. I guarantee you’ll feel like a star, even on days when getting “dressed” is out of the question.
Splurge: Adidas by Stella McCartney Run Performance Midlayer Top, $150
Steal: C9 by Champion Long Sleeve Athletic Jacket, $22.99
2. Boyfriend Jeans: I am a huge fan of the skinny jean, but it has one flaw: it doesn’t work with tennis shoes! On days when I rotating between “work” mode and “mom” mode, switching up my jeans to match my kicks just isn’t practical. That’s why the boyfriend jean is a no-brainer. You can literally go from heel to wedge to flat to sneaker and never miss a beat.
Boyfriend jeans look great with everything from T-shirts and blazers to fitted sweaters and scarves. They’re also perfect to throw on as your body adjusts after pregnancy. I wear them year-round!
Related: When to Save Your Favorite Jeans and When to Scrap Them!
Splurge: Current/Elliott The Boyfriend Jean, $206
Steal: Gap 1969 Mid-Weight Sexy Boyfriend Jean, $69.95
3. Flats: When you’re constantly changing diapers, pushing a stroller, and policing play dates, heels can be tough to handle. After my son was born, I quickly learned the value of a fab pair of flats. What they lack in height they make up for in comfort and stability. These days, you can find SUPER cute options that offer a serious dose of style. I’d even go as far as to say that some of my most treasured shoes are flats. If you pick the right pair for you, I bet you will feel the same way!
Splurge: Madewell The Leopard Print Sidewalk Skimmer, $135
Steal: Old Navy Women’s Bow-Tie Canvas Ballet Flats, $19.94
4. Say ‘No’ to Dry Clean Only: There’s nothing worse than taking the time to put together a cute outfit, only to have it spoiled by spitup, flying food, or finger paint. There’s no quick fix for garments that are dry clean only, and I learned this the hard way. That’s why after my son was born, I put my dry clean only items aside, and reserve them for when I’m rolling without the baby.
For my everyday pieces, I stick to items that can be doused with water in a pinch and thrown in the wash quickly. My favorite options these days are T-shirts with a modern or unique cut, or a bright cotton dress.
Related: Scoop vs Crew: Which Neckline is Right For You
Splurge: LnA Curved Slant Tee, $70
Steal: Zara T-Shirt With Flared Waist, $29.90
5. Shorts: Dresses and skirts are summer staples, but I usually save them for days when I’m not in full mommy mode. Sitting at a Toddler & Me class or going down the slide with my son means I need something with a little more coverage. That’s why this summer I’m investing in shorts. Retailers are whipping up stylish, affordable styles that are also kid friendly. The options are endless: high-waisted, floral, textured, even lace. They come in a slew of different lengths, so make sure you find the comfortable option for you!
Splurge: Anthropologie Loveburst Shorts, $148
Steal: J. Crew 4″ Chino Short, $45
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