Attention, Mamas! We know your babies are your very first priority (and we applaud you for that!), so some of the priorities of your former life– you know, like eating three square meals a day, keeping both legs shaved, and putting time and effort into your style–may have been bumped down a few notches. That’s okay, and we can completely relate. But what’s not okay is when sassy, sacrificing Mamas like you feel sloppy schleppy, and quite frankly, not like yourself.
I’ve put together a list of six versatile, must-have wardrobe staples for moms-on-the-go who enjoy style but live in the real world. Take these suggestions as inspiration to find your own adorable, affordable versions that fit best into your life!
1. Leggings
You read that right. I am a defender of the controversial legging because they can be a great outfit building block if you wear them correctly. No, leggings ain’t pants, but if you wear them the same way you’d wear tights, like under a long sweater, tunic, or dress, you’ll be golden. The beauty of leggings is that they can be dressed up so easily. Take the outfit above: A long, chunky-knit sweater, chic (but comfortable!) leather knee-high boots, and touches of gold accessories add richness to this look. Grab your favorite stylish diaper bag and you’re good to go! (Here are some more ways to style leggings.)
Simply Stylish Mama: Leggings by karen-harris featuring black stretch pants
victoriassecret.com
$14 – marksandspencer.com
6pm.com
nordstrom.com
$79 – yoox.com
2. An Open Cardigan
This is one of the easiest layering pieces you can put in your wardrobe! Throw over a T-shirt and jeans or leggings before you head out the door. Shoe choice is easy, too–sneakers, sandals, or boots all go with this low-key sweater. Bonus: wrap it around yourself to cover the stain after your little munchkin accidentally drops chocolate ice cream down your shirt (because you still have errands to run while you’re out).
lookbookstore.co
etsy.com
aboutyou.de
nordstrom.com
3. Distressed Denim
etsy.com
tradesy.com
$72 – selfridges.com
claires.co.uk
$260 – houseology.com
4. A Cotton Dress
Whether you choose jersey cotton for the summer or a sweater dress for the fall and winter months, a cotton dress is the easiest, comfiest, outfit builder you could ask for. If it’s cooler out, wear over leggings to provide an extra layer of warmth and, ahem, gut-control (and is much more comfortable than tights). Tall leather boots add an extra dose of sophistication, and metallic touches, like a large-faced watch, stack of bracelets, and a purse with accent hardware, add to the class.
Simply Stylish Mama: Cotton Dress by karen-harris featuring knee high riding boots
$59 – marksandspencer.com
toryburch.com
belk.com
bloomingdales.com
5. Graphic Scarves
maykool.com
le3no.com
drjays.com
nordstrom.com
amazon.com
domino.com
$195 – jcrew.com
6. Cute, Comfortable Shoes
factory.jcrew.com
shein.com
zappos.com
$220 – shoeme.ca
$45 – theoutnet.com
$200 – shoeme.ca
$19 – hm.com