HALP! {mommy wardrobe dilemma}

I used to have a series on this blog called Mom-Style Monday. Those days were fun. These days I feel like I have no style.

It’s no secret that I have trouble finding time to get dressed every day. I eventually manage to make it happen before TC comes home, but it’s not always accompanied by a shower and makeup.

Now that Hudson is back in school, I don’t really have a choice but to get dressed first thing every morning. Some mornings I’ll be putting on workout clothes because I plan to walk/jog with Hayes around our neighborhood while Hudson is at school in the mornings.

But other days, I’d like to get dressed. I love tunics and henleys. I totally love a great open cardigan. Layers are for me! I love a pretty basic t-shirt with a scarf. I’m a pretty basic girl, but I need to feel “put together.”

Here’s the situation with my wardrobe. I do not need the most expensive things. I do not need the prettiest things. (Okay, maybe I do.) I need comfortable things that flatter my body. I spend most of my day sitting on the floor with my kids. I need shirts that cover the tops of my jeans in case I’m on the floor and my jeans slide down a little bit. Y’all know what I mean!

I’m willing to spend money on some great basic things that will get some good wear. I didn’t shop last fall because I was pregnant.

I rarely see anyone except in passing. But I do want to feel slightly put together.

I like leggings. I like jeans. Skirts and dresses aren’t a great idea because I’ll be on the floor most of the day.

And if I’m throwing on gym clothes to drop Hudson off at school, I want to look put together and not wear an old Alpha Chi Omega t-shirt circa 2000 because it’s all I could find at the last minute.

It’s time to grow up and look like a mom and not a college girl. Sorry, college girls. I shouldn’t throw y’all under the bus. You all look much better than I do.

These are the things I’ve got my eye on right now.

henley from Ann Taylor Loft

tee from Ann Taylor Loft

sweater from J.Crew

cardigan from J.Crew

peasant top from Anthropologie

cardigan from Banana Republic

Next week, I’m going to take an OOTD photo before 8:45 a.m. every day! And then I’ll blog those photos for you to see how successful I was in a week’s time on getting up, getting dressed, and making myself look presentable!

I need y’all to be my personal shoppers. Where are you finding your favorites for the fall? I need comfy, practical, and flattering. GO!

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Comments

  1. says

    Erin,
    I think you always look great! In fact, will you please tell us where you get YOUR stuff? I love the blue tunic you’re wearing in this post – where is it from? It looks great!

    I’m like you – I want to be cute, but covered. I always have a hard time finding stuff that is appropriate for me though, especially at a decent price! Can’t wait to see what you show us next week!

    PS – I tried on the first shirt from LOFT this weekend. Very cute on the shelf, but I didn’t end up liking it on me at all! Good luck to you!

  2. says

    Girl, you are not the only one who needs help in this department. All of my fall clothes are business clothes… and I didn’t shop last year because I was pregnant too! I look like a ragamuffin. We’re going to Charleston on Saturday to shop so that we can get a few key pieces. And I want to try this stuff on… because who knows how it will fit if I order it off of the internet. I’ll let you know what I find!

  3. says

    Everything you pictured here is perfect! Just please don’t buy those hot pink pants. 🙂

    I have some of the same issues – 3 month old baby, 19 month old toddler. Baby 1 was only 8 months old when I was already pregnant with the next, so I feel like I haven’t really bought new clothes since May of ’09! So for my birthday a few days ago, my mom took me shopping, just like the old days. We spent 2 hours in Banana looking for flattering pieces. I was afraid that with my flabby, post-babies body that I wouldn’t find anything, but that wasn’t the case. I came home with tops that aren’t tight but aren’t completely shapeless, great sweaters for layering, and 3 pairs of pants, including new jeans. It was wonderful to get several hours baby-free with my mama. Shopping-bonding is the best kind. 🙂

  4. says

    My go to store for nice and practical clothes is always the Loft. I also like Francesca’s for the more trendy things that won’t be in style for too long. TJ Maxx is where I go for basic pieces…they always have great flowy cardigans! I think you look great. Can I please have your hair???

  5. says

    Girl, I knew I liked you! I’m an alpha chi alum too, crazy!!!

    Also, I’m in the same boat. Chic Mom style feels so unreachable right now!! Especially when your only a few months without the preggo belly. I cant bring myself to buy new “nice” stuff bc I keep telling myself I’m going to lose more weight….. but, I had sweet Ford in April, it’s time to buy some stuff 🙂

  6. says

    I LOVE that J Crew sweater! Girl, you seem to have great style. And your legs look very skinny and toned in that picture. 😉 I don’t know if you have an Ann Taylor Loft near you, but that’s where 90% of my wardrobe comes from. We also have a Loft outlet which is even better. The clothes are really cute and they always have great sales. The other 10% come from Target…again, cute and inexpensive. I think you always look great.

  7. Emily says

    Erin, you always look put together girl! One of my favorite places lately is Lands End Canvas. The good part, shop online! Usually you can find a free shipping code and if you don’t like it, you can return it at Sears. They have some great basics and the prices are nice. Like most others, my go to places are also Target (they have fabulous tees and cardigans) and also the Loft.

    Let me know if you want a shopping buddy! 🙂

  8. Paige says

    Honestly, I’m jealous that you look so great in tunics and open cardigans – neither of those things are flattering on me! That being said, I have been shopping vicariously for you for the past half hour, so I will probably email you in a bit. Normally I’m not one of those “email bloggers” type people, but for this I will make an exception.

  9. says

    I love the Loft! I tried on the first shirt this past weekend and I had the same results as one of the other readers…cute on the hanger, but not on me. I bought the second ruffley shirt from the loft in short sleeves and love it. It is long, but fitting so gives you curves! I have been playing around with polyvore.com and it is a very addicting site. Fun to browse through and it tells you were everything comes from. I will be doing a little post about it later today with some of the favorite things that I have found. I am new to the site so I am not a whiz, but I have managed to stay up very late playing around with outfits. You can check out my post at http://www.dougandcourtneywidener.blogspot.com. Hope you have a great day and I look forward to your 8:45 pictures!

  10. says

    I’ll preface this with the fact that I’m not a mom, but I have a similar style. I’m petite and an average size but I’ve just never liked wearing anything terribly tight, especially up top. I love tunics and flowy shirts with a bit of shape. That being said, do you own a pair of jeggings? I just went to Atlanta for work (I live in Charleston) and stopped at one of my favorite boutiques there called Festivity (one of the only boutiques that has reasonably priced clothes) and I found a pair of jegging that I’m pretty sure are going to rock my world come fall and they were only $50. Somehow they suck me in in all the right places and smooth me out and they are perfect for wearing with tunics and loose tops! Plus they don’t stretch out like jeans and are easily washed. I was thinking when I bought them that they would be great for a mom. Also, my go to place for tunics (once they go on sale) is always anthropologie.

  11. says

    Interestingly, the ad at the bottom of your post was for Nordstrom Rack. If you have one in your area or feel like making a trip, I think that is the best store for workout gear. It’s still the normal brands like Nike and New Balance, but the higher end items. The Nike tanks with built-in sports bras have an a-line shape rather than being skin tight and they are long enough to be flattering even with leggings, and I carry all of my weight in my hips, thighs and rear. Also, I find that in general (previously mentioned tanks excepted) Reebok workout clothes are much more forgiving than any of the other brands. Their high performance running shorts are fabulous–long enough, low enough, but not frumpy.
    Nordstrom rack is also a great bet for nice brands and fall clothes in general. Last time I was there they had a whole rack of Kate Spade–cute!
    The Jockey brand of leggings from J.C. Penney are durable and nice.
    My co-worker swears that her lululemon leggings are worth the $$ because they suck you in and lift you up, but I haven’t tried them.
    I’m currently pregnant, so not really surfing the websites, but I have a personal email set up at shopittome.com where I previously chose my favorite brands and they send me emails when those brands go on sale at various stores. That has been really great.
    Also, every time you are in Target, take a look right in the middle of the clothing section. The key is to skip the juniors. You won’t find something every time, but sometimes you’ll get lucky!
    Hope that helps!

  12. Megan says

    As far as active wear, have you tried lululemon yoga pants? They are SO versatile, comfortable and well-made! You can wear them as activewear or even with a tunic and look very put together.

  13. Elizabeth says

    I don’t know how you feel about Old Navy, but I have seen some really cute stuff on their site lately with all the new Fall stuff coming out. I haven’t been to a store to scope out quality though. Here are a couple basics I’m loving.

    Military Style V-neck Cardigan
    http://oldnavy.gap.com/browse/product.do?cid=60783&vid=1&pid=871603&scid=871603022

    Dolman sleeve Cocoon Cardigan
    http://oldnavy.gap.com/browse/product.do?cid=60783&vid=1&pid=864926&scid=864926022

    My personal fave – Dolman sleeve sweater tunic
    http://oldnavy.gap.com/browse/product.do?cid=60790&vid=1&pid=864976&scid=864976012

  14. says

    Erin, you are too cute as it is! Love what you have your eye on, as for work out clothes I’d suggest spending a little extra on a Lululemon Jacket. I am a nanny, and I find myself throwing on my Lulu jackets and black pants constantly in the Fall/Winter time. They have great basic colors, and are extremely figure flattering. One other brand Zella, found at Nordstrom or Nordstrom.com has just the same quality just a bit less expensive.

    Hope that helps!

  15. says

    This is going to sound totally nuts… have you tried Talbots? They have revamped their line to attract a younger crowd. I have recently puchased some of my work attire from there and we have a really causal environment (jeans are acceptable!) Banana Republic or J.Crew are also some of my staples!

  16. September says

    I’m gradually getting a routine going now that both my kids are in school. I’ve had great luck lately at Ann Taylor (I love Loft in theory, I just feel like the clothes don’t hold up as well over time); if you’re not on their email list sign up, they send out coupons and give you advance notice of sales. At one point last spring they did a sale where everything in the store was 40% off (that was when I stocked up on cardigans). Check out skinny jeans…I had a hard time making the leap to them (after two kids and all) but if they fit well they’re comfy and super-flattering. And they look great with the types of tops you’re talking about.

    Workout gear is my biggest problem. I do endurance running which translates to as little clothing as possible (usually ends up being a jogging bra/top with spandex shorts). It goes without saying that this isn’t a very flattering look once you’ve had two kids but at a certain point it’s all about avoiding chafage (sorry if TMI). For casual-type workout clothes I’ve had pretty good luck lately at Old Navy–I got these super-cute charcoal gray capri yoga pants for $15 there a few weeks ago; they fit great and look really cute. I’ve done the lululemon stuff and they are amazing, but just to warn you even with following their care instructions (gentle cycle, no dryer, hang to dry) every pair I’ve ever owned has been horribly pilled within six months.

  17. says

    I love fall but have the hardest time fashion wise! I did find cute cardigans that were budget friendly over the weekend at New York and Company. Can’t wait to see your outfits!

  18. says

    I love Loft for tops and cardigans, I’ve never had any trouble with the quality there. However, I never pay full price for anything there because they are always having great sales! Gap Body has some really cute active wear pieces that you could wear for your walks, but also look really cute to go to the store etc… I love anthro, but my teacher budget doesn’t!

  19. says

    I am loving all of these! My favorite is the red tee!!! So cute!!!! I am having the same problem as you. My child is better dressed than me! I am in desperate need of a shopping trip for MYSELF!!! HAHA!

  20. says

    Oh, yes…when I’m not going to work, I’m definitely in Nike running shorts and a t-shirt. I always say I want to wear real, cute, functional clothes but I’m not always motivated! Love, love, love that Loft Henley – it’s on my wish list, too.

  21. Suzette says

    I feel the same way so many days! And frankly, I feel like many of the stores I used to like don’t have alot going on for my post-three-babies body (I’m talking to you J. Crew 🙂 ) I just discovered a store here in Denver called Hot Mama (not the maternity store)
    http://www.shopmama.com/

    I would say their stuff is classic with an edge.

    Looking forward to seeing your OOTDs!

  22. says

    I love the gray jcrew sweater. I think leggings would work with so many of those things are they are super comfy but can look put together at the same time. Also, you should try Old Navy, I actually find a lot of cute/comfy clothes there!

  23. says

    I need major new clothes!!! I LOVE your makeup bag! Where did you get that??? My favorite two stores to shop since I had my 2 year old are TJ Maxx and Marshall’s. So much easier and takes less time than going to the mall! Do you have those in your area?

  24. says

    I totally understand how you feel! Now that S is in school (his school starts at 8!), I have to know what I am wearing the night before so I’m not in a rush trying to pick something out. Most of the mornings, I too am in workout clothes since I typically go to the gym after dropping him off. I really like Lululemon workout wear. It looks nice, doesn’t fade, stretch or shrink. And you still look like you have an outfit on with their hoodies, etc.
    I love Ann Taylor Lofts cardigans and sweaters from their Lounge area. So comfy!
    I can’t wait to see your series and see what others advise, b/c I will be reading and watching for some inspiration as well.

  25. says

    well, I think you are darling. every time I see a photo of you I start coveting your outfit… being pregnant this fall I am stocking up on different things than you will be, BUT traditionally I love tunics (ON SALE) from calypso-celle.com, they are so pretty and LOOK nice no matter what you pair them with. Sale is key though! I have had great success at Steinmart & Marshall’s lately for flowy tops & tunics. And, (unless Erika from Urban Grace blogs about it)– I can usually find some things that are unique and not in everyone’s closet. I too am a scarf and long-sleeved tee girl. It’s comfy & easy and cute! Three pluses for boy moms. Last “trick” is to check out the girls section for XL, XXL cardigans. If you don’t ever button them and scrunch up the sleeves a tad you have a great fit, a cheaper price, and a fun pattern that NO ONE else has because they never thought to look there. I’ve found some of my favorites in the Girl’s sections! 🙂 Happy shopping mama… so looking forward to your posts next week. Maybe you should link up and we can all share some of our outfits/styling ideas for Fall?
    Okay. Longest comment ever.

  26. says

    I’m so with you! My problem is I have work clothes and then I don’t know how to pick casual clothes. I feel like my “lawyer” clothes (which is usually business casual) carry over into my casual days. I love Ann Taylor Loft and I am a big fan of the Gap too.

  27. says

    Can’t wait to read all the suggestions! I need HALP too, which you already know based on my post from yesterday. I need new clothes desperately! I needed clothes before I got pregnant but I knew I would want/need nice maternity clothes so I didn’t buy regular clothes. Now it’s not about wanting but about not going out pantless. 😉 Great post!

  28. says

    Okay. I must tell you about SNUG Camisoles. I think I might be telling every stranger I meet on the street about them – that’s how awesome they are! They come in all different styles (my favorite is the “bra-friendly tank”) and a zillion colors. They are absolutely perfect for popping under a cardigan or a sheer tunic or under a sweater for another layer. They are decently thick (I’m not sure I would wear them alone except for working out, but I definitely feel comfortable having just an open cardigan over them — ie: they don’t look like underwear) and super, super, super stretchy and long. They are made to be one size fits all (0-24). Best Part: They DO NOT RIDE UP… AT ALL. I’ve never had a tank top like them! They’d be the perfect layer for a mom who is up and down off the floor all day!

    Warning: Their website needs work. I bought 2 off of Zulily, but you can order directly off the website. http://snugcamisoles.com/

  29. says

    I am right there with you. I was in tears almost the other night because I felt like I had nothing to wear. I am not sure what it is about being a mom, and your style going out the window, but I agree girlfriend has to get it back..asap!! Oh, I and I love all the outfits you posted!

  30. Audrey says

    Hey Erin! I understand the frustration of shopping as you get older (I’m
    A couple years older than you). I will tell you a couple of my fall must haves. First, a pair of nice jeans…yes I’m talking about the Citizens, Sevens, J Brand, etc. Each person has a different brand that fits them best…but once you go, angels sing. You realize how much better they look and feel than a cheaper brand. You can first start weeding out certain cuts by telling the salesperson that you want a higher waisted jean, not low rise. If you invest in a pair, you will undoubtedly get your money’s worth out of them…I wear mine constantly and have pairs that have lasted more than 5 years at least. It is a good investment in my eyes. They sell some of the brands at Macy’s now, I think Nordstrom, and most clothing boutiques.
    My second favorite staple as of last year is jeggings. They are so comfy and cute. I recently saw on a style segment of a morning talk show that they will be back in style this year, full force…yessss!! These you can find inexpensively. Target had cute ones last year. I think you’ll be able to find them most any place this year. I got one of my pairs at H & M. Last fall/winter, I lived in them. I paired them up with various tunics or short cotton dresses and different tall boots. Very versatile, very cute, very comfortable, very low maintainence (no ironing or dry cleaning), don’t wrinkle after rolling all over the floor when playing with the baby, etc. Give them a try if you haven’t already!
    Good luck!

  31. says

    I stalk Polyvore for cute outfits. I search a lot for J Crew or tall boots to get outfit ideas. For workout wear, I love the tops from Target by Champion. They’re cheap but flattering.

  32. says

    I love your style, and love tunics also–where did you get the one is this post?

    I wear similar things as a SAHM to an 8 month little boy. Many days I am in Lululemon yoga pants and tanks. But one of my other faves this year is Gap’s Ponte Legging Jean…they are made of a heavy stretchy black knit, with jeans styling. Can be worn with flats or boots and feel like yoga pants but look chic! I think they are flattering to my recovering bod too. They aren’t sausagey like denim jeggings, but they have that slim look. I had a similar maternity pair that I wore last year all the time, and I can’t wait to wear the new pair this fall!

    As far as wanting longer tops to cover the hips, I often look for “Tall” sizes for tops on Gap and Old Navy. I have a long torso and buy their tanks in long so they never ride up. I can wear them with leggings as a layer this fall and winter. I also just got a dotted tunic top in tall from Old Navy that was like 12 bucks! I have to make my money go far so I save on some items and splurge on others.

    I hope you get to do another post soon with some new favorites!

  33. says

    Good morning from Los Angeles!

    What a fabulous tunic! I’m going to have to ask you where you found that beautiful top because I’m evolving into a bit of a tunic gal myself. But before I forget the point of this reply…Erin, you are lovely in so many ways, and as a fellow mom I understand what you mean about wanting to spruce up your day to day with pretty and fun basics. Try H & M for inexpensive sweaters and cardigans, Their tops are fun as well! You should also try Zara, and while it’s certainly more pricey they have the most gorgeous tunics, tops, sweaters, and dresses. Can you believe I only discovered them while living in Tokyo? Crazy! The prices at Zara are a little up there, but they’re still cheaper than Lilly and other places where you can find beautiful tunics. For other basics try hitting Marshalls and TJ Maxx. The price is always right, the selection really varried, and you can find name brands with greater ease. Best of luck with your fun search! I know you’ll find some great things.

    Warmly,

    Elizabeth

  34. Sara says

    Target has some really great basic cardigans in a lot of cute colors as well as cute tees. I have had my eye on the henley from Ann Taylor Loft as well! My favorite fall outfits are jeggins with a tee or tunic/short dress with a cardigan. I really love the oversized tees right now too. I think you always look so cute!

  35. says

    I always love your outfits! I still feel stuck in my college wardrobe! I love Ann Taylor Loft, Vineyard Vines, Target, and Old Navy. Can’t wait to see next weeks outfits!

  36. Katie says

    Hi Erin,
    I am a college student in Wisconsin currently who is studying to be an Elementary Education teacher. I have a similar issue in that I need clothes that are comfy and allow me to constantly be moving with my elementary schoolers during student teaching. I absolutely love the store Hot Mama! It is a newer store that opened up in 2004, I believe, and is currently in a couple of the states in the Midwest. It has clothes that are trendy (but not ones you wouldn’t be able to wear the next year or so) and ones that are comfortable. Their mission as a store is to have clothes that empower moms, knowing that moms only have limited time in the mornings to get ready and such. Of course, Anthropologie is a spurge of mine as well and they have some great items! I was eyeing the same blue shirt above! 🙂 Happy Thursday!

  37. Katie says

    I should also mention that their website is shopmama.com. Hotmama.com will get you something totally different and totally disgusting! Trust me!

  38. Tiffany says

    Nordstrom Rack is amazing. I almost always find something I love and usually have a hard time deciding what not to get. They have the best jackets, shoes, and purses. The only problem with shopping there is that I end up being filled with regret if I don’t buy it right away because it usually won’t be around a couple days later. Rebecca Minkoff and Kate Spade purses, Coach flats and boots…for less than $100. What’s not to love! I can’t believe I ever bought all my other clothes at regular price, especially since they sell classic items that don’t change much from season to season. I saw a Burberry trench that I considered buying for $200 (which is a steal if you know how much the Burberry coats are at Nordstrom). Marshalls and Homegoods are great for accessories for the home, especially kitchen stuff. From time to time I will also see a few good things at Marshalls. I found a nice cashmere blend Ella Moss wrap for $40.

    I would also second the Lululemon recommendation for smart casual clothing that moves with you. The headbands and gym bags are very cute, I use the gym bag as a carry-on/ weekender bag when I am going on a short trip and always get compliments. Not to mention that I run a lot, and one of my favorite lululemon tanks has managed to last 4 years without looking worn. They really have great quality items for the most part.

  39. says

    I love a good tunic or henley.
    They are the perfect mommy shirt but still deliver on style. I also love a good cardigan and crazy as it may sound I find tons of good cardigans at Express and I can always get a good deal. I bought several flowy tops from there for the beach and didn’t break the bank.
    I’m always a fan of Anthropoligie and can at least find one or two good shirts each time I go.
    Banana Republic and Gap are two other favorites.

  40. says

    My favorite items are: Joes Jeans (not the low rise, the higher rise so my underwear do not stick out the top:), AG Jeans (love these too). I pair them with cute tops and twill jackets. If I feel super dressy, I wear longer jeans and add some great pumps and jewels. If I want to dress down I wear ballet flats (Tory Burch Reva’s are great-I know you love them too) and pearl or diamond earrings. I find that the addition of a jacket makes me feel more put together. Here is one of my favorites from J Crew right now. It’s classic without being stuffy. And it hides any spit up or graham cracker that might be on my top:)
    http://www.jcrew.com/womens_feature/NewArrivals/blazersandvests/PRDOVR~49196/49196.jsp

  41. says

    Lululemon has great, cute, comfy workout clothes that can second as put together errand clothes as well. They are a little expensive but their stuff is amazing and with a few basics you won’t need a ton. My husband wonders if I still own jeans because I wear their yoga pants so much 🙂

  42. says

    Two Words, love: LULU LEMON!
    Trust me, you will not regret it. You’ll live in them! Start of buying a basic pair of black “Grooves”. If you don’t have a store in your area just order online, try a size 6. They are great with exchanges… I am sensing a Lulu Lemon post in the near future!

  43. says

    A) You are precious and pulled together even if you don’t feel that way
    B) That henley from Loft is sooo comfy. It has a nice sheen to the fabric, but is kind of wrinkly so you can live your life and not be afraid of getting rumpledy. I have that top you pictured, and two that are very similar that were at Target this summer (love camp sleeves).
    C) Jewelry always makes me feel pulled together
    D) I have no style, but I feel like if I wear a lot of basic black with statement jewelry, well tailored hems on my jeans and cute flats or heels… that maybe I look “classic?”

  44. says

    Even though my kids are in school, so I’m not on the floor playing with them anymore, I do still have volunteer hours at school each week. On those days, I need to look presentable, but also need to be sure I have clothes that are functional for any kind of task. For the last two weeks I have been sorting/organizing a closet of games/puzzles. The cute dress I wore last week did. not. work. Learned my lesson for this week (it’s going to be a 4-6 week project….)
    I’m definitely a fan of jeans and t-shirts everyday, with a little something extra (scarf, layering, sassy shoes) to make it look a little more grown up. (I love skirts and dresses in warmer weather). I like a lot of what you’ve suggested/picked out above (especially the red tee). My budget is more along the lines of Target and Old Navy, but I have found plenty of long sleeve tees and pieces for layering. I’m especially glad that t-shirts have a more “long and lean” cut lately, since I usually have a very hard time finding long sleeves that actually reach my wrists.

  45. crewlade drinka says

    boden definitely. I spent a ton there thus fall alreadyfor me and my boys. cute stuff and they have onsite reviews to help with ordering and free ship and returns with 20% off today fyi! quality is great too. and for hot mama- whatever you do it is shopmama.com DO NOT google hot mama. bad bad stuff will come up. trust me!

  46. says

    You look adorable in anything Erin. Although I’m not a stay-at-home mom, I do have weekend wear that I love. And most of my girlfriends stay at home, and they live in their lululemon yoga pants and cute shirts and hoodies. They always look so comfy, but still put together. My weekend wear typically hails from either Old Navy, The Loft or Target. I also buy the occasional nicer piece from Boden or J Crew if I find something I really love. You’ve probably discovered this, but Rickshaw Design has great tunics that are so comfy. http://www.rikshawdesign.com/

  47. says

    I am not a mom but I greatly enjoy shopping and style in general.

    For workout type wear Under Armour has some wonderful longer tops in really pretty colors in the “all season gear” section. I find myself wearing them a lot for loungewear in the evenings.

    Lululemon has great streetwear and lots of their pieces offer “shaping” but don’t feel constricting. Particularly their leggings. The Zella leggings Nordstrom has are the exact same (technology, material, everything) but at half the price. They are a thicker legging though, better for the colder months.

    Hue and American Apparel (buy on amazon for cheap) make excellent thinner leggings that hold up really well and don’t bag out. American Apparel is also a great place for longer tunics though I never shop the stores but instead get it new on amazon for 75% off.

    For tunics & drapey cardigans I hit up just about everywhere: White House Black Market Ann Taylor, Loft, Boden, Nordstroms, Forever 21, Jcrew, Anthropologie, Lands End Canvas (they have some adorable striped ones right now!) LLBean Signature and Madewell. Several of these brands are available through seesthesale so you can create your wishlist in there and it will alert you when the item goes on sale.

    Skinny Jeans and Jeggings (really don’t like that term) work great with ballet flats and boots. Try the Pilcro brand through anthropologie. A very nice premium denim without quite the designer pricetag. When it goes on sale the price drops to around $50. I also adore AG for a nice good stretchy jean that holds it shape and doesn’t ride too low but I stock up on those whenever they hit 50% off.

    I like the colored pants that have been everywhere this fall but if you’re looking for something more versatile and slimming try it in the darker colors. Anthropologie has some lovely dark pine denim and wine colored pants that I love. Gap also has some colored denim that have gotten positive reviews.

    I am a big fan of accessories too-belting cardigans with skinny belts or nice stretchy ones. You can emphasize the natural waist. Also longer necklaces (though I know these don’t always work with little ones who might pull on them) and statement earrings.

    Can’t wait to see what you pick out!

  48. Mary Grace says

    I’ve got a 4 month old and a 20 month old and most days I feel like a living, breathing poster child for “What Not to Wear.” I am waiting for the post-baby-body genie to arrive and wiggle her nose so that I can fit into a pair of jeans that (a) are not mom jenas and (b) are not booty-baring-low-rise specials. Is it too much to ask for?

    So happy you posted this, if you can’t tell.

    Lucy (http://www.lucy.com/) makes great, post-baby-body friendly workout gear. Love, love, love their vital pant and capri. They have cute t-shirty type workout tops – both solid and print. And they’re a slightly less painful price point than lululemon.

  49. cori says

    oooh boy do I know what you mean, I am a few years your senior, and I even need a personal shopper!! If I could just have someone go shop for me, clothes, home stuff, groceries, all of it!
    I am not a good shopper. I can’t even remember the last time I have been in out local mall to look for clothes. I usually just order on line. Can’t wait to see your daily pics!
    Thanks for sharing your life with us all.

  50. Laura says

    i’m like you…except for the whole children thing…i need clothes that are comfortable that i can move around in. i also don’t like clothes to be tight or form fitting since my hectic schedule has caused me to put on 10 pounds. i work from 8:30 – 5 and then I’m in class from 6:15 – 9:30 4 days a week, so I need stuff that will last that long and not drive me crazy. I do very well at the Gap Outlet and Lands End Canvas. I also have good luck at Target. I can’t spend a lot of money on clothes, but I find I do get my money’s worth and get a lot of comfort from those brands.

    I love that peasant top from Anthropologie. I NEED!

  51. Melanie says

    YOU LOOK AMAZING!! And..can you give us some tips on your hair, it’s looks amazing as well!! I have share the same similar style..I am 8 months pregnant and i am already looking at trying to update my mom wardrobe.. I love this post!! Especially the shirts!!! Oh..check out the Pioneer Woman as well.. she has great tunics!!

  52. says

    Soooo cute!
    You look great, what are you talking about! You certainly don’t look like you just gave birth a couple of months ago. Ugh I’m on a mission to lose those pesky post preggo pounds at the moment.
    Oh and sorry I don’t have any clothing advice as the stores we have here in Australia are different, not to mention it’s Spring! Good luck, looking forward to seeing your photos 🙂

  53. lissa says

    Don’t give up on skirts….I loved them when my girls were little and they were beyond wonderful when I was working in Africa and pants on women weren’t considered modest. So easy to sit on the floor and very forgiving. Loved the items you’ve already posted.

  54. says

    You always look so cute! And I love your tunic in the first pic, you must share where you got it! I have a 3 yr old, 26 mo old and and 3 month old and am currently living in old t shirts and maternity shorts. Yes, maternity shorts. So depressing. Thanks for this post because I need HALP too. Going to check out Lululemon as soon as I lose these 20 lbs, sounds like a must have!

  55. says

    I have the same problems as you! It’s hard to get dressed and look put together when you know you’re just going to spend all day at home. I would love to get some pieces that are easy to throw on at the last minute (because, honestly, that’s all I ever have) and still look good and be comfortable!

  56. says

    Love those shirts! I got an email saying that Loft is having a sale tomorrow and online where everything is an additional 30% off. I have three young girls, and I find a nice pair of jeans and a top are fine for running around, but when I wear jewelry I just feel I look better. I also always do my hair and makeup first thing, because as long as that’s done, I feel fine in anything!
    I tend to shop at Loft, Target, Lands End Canvas, Old Navy, and Gap. Also, love some TJMAXX!!!

  57. says

    there was a really cute henley in the vineyard vines catalog i just got in the mail… 🙂 good luck finding some great pieces! you’ve gotten a ton of great advice!!!

  58. says

    I’ve found some really great things from Lands End and Lands End Canvas lately! Canvas seems to be the new line, a little bit of a younger and fun look, though still classic and great looking! They also have really terrific sales too. I just spent $45 on three really fabulous sweaters! Now I am just waiting for DC to cool down a bit, so that I can wear them!

  59. says

    I am a friend and co-worker of Megan (“Tales of the Trees”), and am just now getting into the blogging world.

    I love fashion and especially jewelry! I am a big fan of adding some great jewelry to inexpensively update any look, and to feel and appear “put together”. I LOVE Maurices – great clothes (styles like you have shown here) at amazing prices. And their stores are undergoing a huge, chic makeover that makes you feel like you are in a posh boutique!

    Also, every woman (especially moms!) should know the emergency, quick errand run tool kit – sunglasses, great earrings and lip gloss. Put them altogether to create a brilliant camouflage… because we all know it is during these times in our day that we run into a million people we know! Hiding your makeup-less eyes is the sure-fire way to disguise the fact that today you don’t have it together…and that is okay!

  60. stina says

    I am all about ways to dress up nicely to at least appear professional. I teach at the University where I am getting my PhD and lets face it – I look like my students. So I have to do something about my appearance to look put together nicely – and covered up. I absolutely hear you about those long, floating tops or cardigans. I have nightmares of something popping out while reaching for the blackboard. My favorites are leggings with dresses, or long sweaters. I buy most of my clothes at H&M. They have fantastic basics and whenever I go, I bring back stacks of long sleeves or shirts (in all colors) and scarfs (in all possible designs). I am not a fan of their “Divided” line (too old for that one), but their “Modern Classic” and “Everyday” lines are fabulous! Their clothes might not last forever (be careful with the dryer), but I wouldn’t want to wear the same things for a decade anyway.
    I like Zara, but sometimes their sizes/ cuts make be think I have the weirdest body shape. Same with Old Navy.
    Gap and JCrew have nice things too, but I don’t always find something when I go there.
    Bottom line, I always go back to H&M. (Only downside, they don’t have an online store in the U.S. yet, what’s up with that?!!)
    Good luck! :o)

  61. says

    I just bought a couple new outifits last night which included jeggings (yes, I know). Anywho, the store I was at had several items that were similar to your picks and they are very inexpensive.

  62. says

    I’m so glad you did this post! I just started teaching preschool and I feel like I need a whole new wardrobe. I’m on the floor with the kids so I need comfortable clothes that I can move around in, but also look nice. The only problem is, I can’t wear jeans 🙁 Looking forward to seeing what you wear next week and hopefully getting some new ideas for myself!

  63. says

    You hit the nail on the head with my thoughts regarding my wardrobe. I’ve done some cleaning out, could still do more, but really want to build a better, practical wardrobe. (I really need to do a post on this too – maybe this will inspire me.) I work from home, so comfy and easy is key for me too. Love what you posted and can’t wait to see your outfits. I could do the same – a week before the makeover and a week after….that could be interesting!!

  64. says

    love your style! I was pregnant last fall too and am desperate for a new wardrobe. The problem is finding time to buy clothes while taking care of the kid. Weeknights fly by in minutes and weekends are full of chores and things we have to catch up on.

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