These days, instead of jetting of to the office each morning, I’m enjoying an extended maternity leave and cuddling my sweet little princess all day. Admittedly in the first few weeks after she was born, I didn’t get out of my pajamas. But now that she’s all of three months old, I make it a point to get fully dressed every day even if I’m not leaving the house. I put together some sort of outfit, wash my face, apply a bit of makeup, and throw on some jewelry every morning.
Why? Partly because getting fully dressed helps me feel good and helps me get going each day. But it’s also for my baby girl. I don’t want her to think I dress to impress everyone in the world except her. The job of a stay at home mom is just as important as the job of a mom who works outside the home. But a kid who only sees mom dress decently when she heads to the office won’t get that impression. Kids see – and feel – everything.
That doesn’t mean I need to dress fancy – and it doesn’t mean I need to hire a celebrity stylist. But it does mean I should bestow some level of dignity on my day to day life. So today let’s talk wardrobe. Next time we’ll talk hair and makeup.
If yoga pants are all that you can squeeze into post-partum, do it. Trust me, I’ve been there. Grab a clean, colorful top and pair it with a fun set of earrings. If fear that your little one will yank your earrings out keeps you from wearing dangles, try any of these fun studs. Note: pearls will dress up any outfit, even yoga pants. I wear my Majorica pearls nearly every day.
Clockwise from top left: Majorica 12mm White Stud Pearl Earrings
If you’re breastfeeding, the key is to invest in several cute nursing tops. I love the selection at Milk Nursingwear. The key is to put them in the wash after a single day’s wear to keep those inevitable milk stains from becoming permanent. I usually spray with Honest’s Stain Remover, then toss in the laundry basket at the end of the day.
Combine with a pair of cheap yet stylish jeans in your temporary size – Old Navy has lots of options available. Occasionally mix up your jeans for a skirt, or opt for a nursing friendly dress. This one’s lovely.
Last but not least, buy a pair of house shoes. Not slippers – actual shoes. Many of us don’t like wearing our outside shoes indoors, especially in the winter when we’re likely to track in salt and ice. So buy a pair of shoes only to be worn indoors. Choose a comfortable pair in a neutral color – nude, gold, or platinum would all work well, like these ballet flats by Dr. Scholl’s
If you keep these shoes, a variety of cute matching tops and bottoms, and a few dresses on hand, it doesn’t take much time or brain power to throw on a decent outfit in the morning. For more ideas on how to create your own unique mom uniform, check out Hallie Lord’s free e-booklet, “Dressing with Intention”.
About Jo-Lynne