It's a slippery slope. You decide that it is going to be just one short errand and it's ok to just run out this one time in your old sweatpants and mismatched top. No one will see you. (anecdotally that is exactly when I meet the new person who has just moved into the neighborhood - seriously) But do you feel your best? Just because we're moms doesn't mean we can't feel great about how we look. For a mom, your wardrobe has to serve about 12 purposes (and that's on a good day). Whether you're chasing toddlers or chauffeuring teenagers, your clothes need to be functional, sure but that doesn't mean you have to give up on style. Here are a couple of simple suggestions to help you create a wardrobe that works for you (so you don't have to work so hard).
Know Your Perfect Pants
Forget about material for a second and think about the cut of the pants. You need to know how each cut looks on your body. Trends come and go today's skinny jean is tomorrow's boyfriend jeans but no trend is worth it if it's not flattering. Bring an honest friend with great style to give you real feedback in the dressing room. If the hot new look isn't hot on you, you can always fall back on the classics. If you find a cut that's not particularly trendy right now but looks great on you, go for it. Just make sure it's not the focus of your outfit, but a strong supporting player that makes you look your best.
Know Your Fabrics
Now let's talk about fabric. One of the realities of motherhood is that your clothes get dirty a lot more than they did before you had kids. Make sure you read labels before you buy. Know your fabrics, what you'll be able to throw in the wash and what you'll need to dry clean. Watch out for those "Hand Wash Only" labels, unless you're willing to sit up after the kids have gone to bed with a basin and a drying rack. Make sure you
know your wash symbols, too. A tee can be completely chic with well-fitting pants and a killer pair of shoes, plus you'll have no worries when your toddler spills chocolate milk on you.
Know All Kinds of Accessories
A wardrobe full of simple basics can be taken to the next level with just the right accessories. This is the time for a well-deployed scarf, statement jewelry and a
cute designer handbag. Buy bright, bold pieces that add a pop of color to a neutral outfit. Metallics add dazzle to the everyday. The perfect scarf will give you an air of Paris, and there are plenty of
ways to tie scarves to get the look that's right for you. Just be careful with scarves and jewelry if you're toting a baby on your hip—as you well know, babies love to grab for these items.
Know What Feels Good on Your Feet
Here you want to go for comfort as much as style. You've got enough to worry about without pinched toes and blisters. The joy of buying a pair of cute shoes will quickly turn to regret when you're hobbling after a running child who's leaving you in the dust. Invest in comfy flats like loafers or ballet flats. Go for metallics or animal prints to liven things up. And when you're taking the kids to the park, slip on a pair of comfortable athletic shoes in a bright neon to give your feet a break and to make sure there's nothing standing between you and the playground equipment. Avoid flip-flops and sandals that don't support your feet, flats with a super-thin sole and heels above three inches. You may love that really old pair of sneakers that are broken in just right but save those for when you are out camping - you can pick up a nice pair of white sneakers for not too much money every now and then. You and your feet deserve it.
Being comfortable means being confident. Be Yourself. You don't have to have the perfect wardrobe that looks like every other mom on the block. Being happy in your own skin and showing your creativity through your style also helps you set a great example for your kids to follow.
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