Who Says Moms Can’t Be Stylish?
I’ve got a bone to pick with the expectations society places on moms, but there’s one that feels like nails on a chalkboard. Whoever said moms are somehow supposed to abandon their sense of self or personal style couldn’t be more wrong. It’s something I almost fell prey to, BUT I’ve regained my senses. In fact, surviving the highs and lows of being a first-time mom seemed to reignite my desire to show up in life.
I found out I was pregnant during the pandemic and went on to experience postpartum depression and situations where my son experienced everything from RSV at 3 months to COVID-19 twice. Somehow, I managed to give birth to who I am over the last few years and I have to say it’s the most confident I feel. As a result, my personal style has started to feel like me again.
Here’s what I did to relearn what does and doesn’t work for me.
I Revisited My Favorite Pieces
I went through a blazers and cardigans phase years ago, and suddenly though I no longer needed them after I became a mom. I’m not sure what my line of thinking was, but we’ll say a prayer for the former sleep-deprived version of myself. In my level-headed mind, I don’t think you can ever have too many blazers or cardigans.
They’re the epitome of ‘cool,’ because they have the ability to elevate whatever you’re wearing. From a work-friendly outfit to something thrown over your shoulders as a complement to that new satin silk dress you have, they’re one of the ‘It’ girls of fashion (no Pennywise). They’re seriously a must-have for me.
Once I embraced them again, I started asking myself what else I loved. It was almost like a domino effect because I also realized I have a thing for high-waist or wide-leg pants. The same goes for jeans.
Despite only being 5’2”, I have ‘long’ legs that love to shimmy into something that doesn’t feel restrictive. As much as I used to practically live in skinny jeans, that ship has sailed. I can’t say I miss them though!
I Rediscovered What’s in My Closet
I used to roll my eyes whenever people suggested that shopping in our closets is a key to rediscovering things, but guess what? They were 100% right! Pulling out every blazer, cardigan, dress and coat has has reintroduced me to things I haven’t thought about wearing in a while. But, that’s not all!
Curiosity nudged me to get creative with pieces I’ve worn a lot or may have bypassed for something else. That oversized sweater dress in the back of my closet? Now it’s an elongated top that can be worn over a pair of trousers. Those sneakers I thought about donating? They’re looking real good lately.
That’s the beauty of getting familiar with everything in your closet. This doesn’t mean you can never add new pieces to it, but it’s great to remember why you bought something.
What did you do this weekend? Let me know in the comments or on Instagram!
