Sometimes mom-friendly outfits get a bad reputation, because they focus solely on the functional side of things. You’re picturing a messy bun, sweatpants, and a shirt that will only appear “OK” from the driver’s seat of your car in the drop-off line.
BUT! There is an easier way, and it doesn’t involve going on a massive shopping spree or waking up an extra 15-45 minutes early. Please, I would never ask that of you.
All it involves is taking what is already in your closet, styling it in a slightly elevated manner, and paying attention to the details.
So why should you even spend time on stylish mom outfits?
You know that feeling after you get your hair cut, and it’s perfectly blown out, and you feel like a million bucks? With these easy outfits, you can feel that way every day.
Here are 5 easy and stylish mom outfits to try now.
Mom Outfit #1: Denim shirt, jeans, low-top sneakers, medium-sized hoops
Wearing a denim-on-denim outfit can be a go-to outfit that is also stylish. (Really!)
The low-top sneakers are classic and function for the hectic days that are no doubt in your future.
In my look, I chose two similar washes. However, if the denim-on-denim look is new to you, you could try a black or white pair of jeans with a denim shirt instead.
TIP: To keep this look chic and easy, avoid too many distressed marks, or any sort of grommets, studs, or “extras.”
Where can I wear this outfit: This is primarily a daytime look. It is great for outdoor activities, running errands, park dates, and even local community events.
Mom Outfit #2: Black jeans, white T-shirt, black blazer, ankle boots, chunky link necklace
Let’s be honest, a neutral-colored outfit always looks chic. But if you do want to add a pop of color, choose a colorful blazer.
Notice how the skinny jeans and ankle boots are slim-fitted and sleek while the blazer and tee are more relaxed? This creates balance. And if you need a more relaxed T-shirt and blazer, try checking your significant other’s closet.
Where can I wear this outfit: I love this look for any daytime activities, but it also functions for casual evening events as well.
Mom Outfit #3: Trench coat, sweater, T-shirt, trousers (leather optional), low boots
This look is all about layering basics to create a more dynamic look.
Start off with a pair of cropped trousers. I chose a pair of leather trousers because that is what I had in my closet, but any fabric works. Add your sweater and trench for a mom-friendly yet fashionable look.
TIP: Keep in mind your proportions here. The black trousers and the black boots give the illusion of longer legs and keep the outfit sleeker.
Where can I wear this outfit: This outfit is great for day to evening events, and for anything that requires a “no-jeans” dress code. The bones of the outfit are classic, so it’s very flexible.
Mom Outfit #4: Leggings, slightly oversized sweater, flats, sunglasses
You know leggings had to be on the list! How can you have a list of stylish mom-friendly outfits without leggings? Believe it or not, leggings can be quite stylish.
The universal rule when wearing leggings and achieving “casual chic” instead of “I slept in this last night” is combining two opposite clothing pieces. When deciding what to pair with your leggings, you need to pick an item in a more “formal” category.
So, the fact that I am wearing a slightly oversized sweater (that one could argue is business casual) with my leggings and pairing them both with dressier flat shoes elevates this outfit.
When picking out your sweater, keep in mind its size and length. Notice how my sweater goes past my hips? This gives the leggings a more put-together look and avoids any camel-toe faux pas.
TIP: To elevate your leggings, don’t pair it with anything too tight. Your leggings are already very body-conscious, so to create balance you want to add something looser to your outfit.
For more tips, check out the ultimate cheat sheet on how to make leggings stylish.
Where can I wear this outfit: This look is great for the weekends when casual chicness is a priority, but the days are still hectic.
Mom Outfit #5: Sweatshirt, knit (stretchy!) skirt, low-top classic sneakers, sunglasses
This outfit looks best with a crewneck sweatshirt because it keeps the neckline cleaner.
Highlight your waist by tucking the front of the sweatshirt into the skirt waistband and leaving the back loose.
TIP: I suggest opting for a skirt that hits at the knee or below, because you don’t want to flash anyone when you’re on those stadium stands or sitting down in the grass during a playdate.
Where should I wear this outfit: I love this look for daytime events like kids’ birthday parties, sports events (rock those team colors), and even those rare mom brunches.
Final thoughts:
These looks shouldn’t add any more time to your morning routine, and the more you try them the better you will get at honing your personal style. These outfits are a guide, and the most important thing you can do to rock these outfits is to add a sense of you to them.
Now, go be the most stylish mom at the soccer game. 😉
About the Author
Gabrielle Arruda is a fashion designer and style blogger. She believes fashion is a powerful tool and that everyone can find strength through style. She has run a successful fashion design company with pieces worn by celebrities like Zendaya and Nicole Richie. Her works have been featured in British Vogue, and she even competed on Project Runway.