Most moms have a system for keeping their pantry stocked with must have staples. By combining a few key items we can almost always come up with a quick snack or toddler approved dinner in just a few minutes. Why not apply the same skills to our wardrobe? Stock it up with some staple items and then mix and match to create new outfits. All you need are the basics. Some key pieces that look good on everyone, and are timeless classics.
When you begin building your wardrobe, choose a neutral colour palette that works for you. As long as all the pieces you buy mix together without clashing you are on the right track. Start with these staple items and build from there:
1. Killer (Yet Comfortable) Jeans
A dark wash and straight, or slightly boot cut leg is always in style. Avoid trendy or embellished denim. For maximum comfort try jeans with a waistband instead of a zipper closure. Trust me, they are amazing.
Hint: If you are able to splurge a little, when you find the perfect pair of jeans, buy two. Have one hemmed to wear with flats and the other to wear with heels.
2. Crisp Neutral Button Down Shirt
Most wardrobe must-have lists suggest a white button down, but that’s just not practical for moms. Go for a neutral colour that will hide stains better than white. Make sure it fits well across your bust without gaping at the buttons.
3. Fitted Jacket
Traditional wisdom would say to go with a black tailored jacket. Instead, go with a style and colour that suits your lifestyle and fits well. These days you can find some amazing fitted denim, khaki, and corduroy jackets. As long as the look is tailored, you can still pair them with jeans, a sun dress, or even trousers.
4. Figure Flattering Pants
You pick the neutral colour, cut, and length that makes sense for your lifestyle and looks and feels like a million bucks. Just one tip; try to match the style of pants to the jacket you selected. For example: denim jacket and cropped khakis, or black blazer and fitted trousers. You want your basic wardrobe to have a consistent look and feel.
5. Hall of Fame Dress
A 'Hall of Fame dress' is something that makes you feel great, looks amazing, and can be worn many different ways. It can be a little black dress if that works for you, or something entirely different. My Hall of Fame dress is a printed orange sundress seen here. I can wear this dress casually with a denim jacket, or dressed up with a cardigan and heels. For where I am in my life right now, this type of dress makes a lot more sense than a dry clean only LBD.
6. Cardigan
This is a place to go ahead and splurge. You are going to be getting a lot of wear out of your basic cardigan and you don’t want something that is going to pill or start looking worn quickly. Stick to something basic like; black, camel, navy, or chocolate (white if you are really courageous, or have incredibly clean kids).
7. Knee Length Skirt in a Flattering Silhouette
For some of you this will be a pencil skirt, for others it might be an a-line. Take the time to find a flattering fit and then purchase a skirt that matches the colour tones of your other basic pieces.
8. Trench Coat
There are rare times that I suggest buying a designer piece and this is one of those times. A well fitted trench coat is timeless and will last you for years. (Just make sure you have gotten to a somewhat stable post-baby size before making this purchase). Think of a trench coat as an investment item.
9. Good Purse
There is a huge range of options here. I love big bags because I always carry make-up, a notebook (the old fashioned kind), and an umbrella amongst other things. You might want a cross body bag just big enough for your keys and wallet. Pick whatever suits your current needs, just make sure it is comfortable to wear all day, and fits in with your overall style.
10. Well Fitted Bra
If you don’t have a good base (i.e.: the girls are just hanging around), no amount of designer clothing can help you out. As a mom your bra size is going to change often. During pregnancy, after delivery, while breastfeeding, after breastfeeding...you get the picture right? Make sure you are wearing the right bra!
Once you’ve created a basic wardrobe with these building blocks, you can add on with accessories and trend pieces seasonally.
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