By Kristin Hull
As a mom, you don’t have time to read magazines or watch runway shows to keep up with the current trends. But fortunately, we do. And each season we sift through them to bring you the ones best suited to a mom’s lifestyle.
Remember, following trends doesn’t mean looking like a teenager, it means looking modern and sophisticated. Sure, if you buy into the wrong ones you very well may end up looking as if you’re headed to a school dance but with the right ones, you’ll give off an air of effortless style.
Now, let’s shop!
A Button-down: If you’re looking for a crisp, sophisticated look a button-down will never let you, well, down. They’re so versatile they’ll work with any pants, shorts or skirts and pair nicely with heels or flats, even sneakers too! We love the green shade (to add some color to your wardrobe) and cute pattern (that will hide wrinkles and stains) on this one from Target ($15).
D’Orsay Flats: D’orsay shoes only cover the toes and heel and are open on the sides. If you look around in stores you’ll see that they’re definitely having a moment. They can be open- or closed-toe, heels or flats, round-toe or pointed. Right now though, the pointy toe is back and as a mom, you’re probably more partial to flats. We’ve chosen two neutral pairs for you here because they’ll be versatile and go with many outfits. But, there are tons and tons of patterns and colors to choose from so find some that work for you and we guarantee they will become your go-to shoe for the next several months – especially because they can work for the office, the playground or just running errands. Here we have a denim pair by Steve Madden ($59.60) and a neutral camel color from Forever 21 ($19.80).
Pastels: Pastels are back and we love they way they look with just about every neutral. From grey to khaki to black there’s just something about pastels that compliment these hues. If you want to look stylish running errands after a workout, this jacket from H&M ($39.95) will do the trick. Put it over any old, sweaty t-shirt and you’ll suddenly look trendy and stylish. Or, if you’d prefer something a little dressier, try this gorgeous top from Joe Fresh ($24).
A Bucket Bag: Bucket bags are the “it” back of the season. The good news for moms is that they are spacious and most have a long strap so you can wear it as a cross-body when you’re trying to carry a little one and sports gear all at once. This neutral color from Zara ($35.99) is so versatile it can be used on a daily basis.
A Shirtdress: If there was ever a perfect dress style for moms it would be the shirtdress. Try it with sneakers and you’re ready to cheer on the baseball team; add a blazer and pumps, high-heeled sandals or wedges for a cool office look. We chose two fun striped versions but they are available in almost every color and pattern imaginable. Yes, horizontal stripes can make one look bigger but the smaller the width of the stripes the less likely that is to happen. That’s why we chose this black and white version from The Gap ($55.96). And the yellow-striped dress from Target ($27.99) was just too fun to pass up. But, if you’d prefer, it also comes in a floral and an animal print.
Skater shoes: Don’t let the youthful name of these shoes scare you off or you’ll really be missing out. This style is THE shoe of the season. It’s versatile, functional, cool and comfortable. What more could a mom want? They come in hundreds of colors and patterns and almost every store has a pair to offer. We love this funky “Yellow Submarine” version from Vans ($65) as well as the classic leopard print style from H&M ($14.95).
A Full Skirt: The good news about skirts this year is that there are no limits on length. Minis, knee-length, midi and maxis are all on trend. One of the most popular though is the full skirt. They’re fun, flirty, comfortable and they hide the gut, the butt and the thighs! Dress ’em up or down easily. We love wearing ours with a plain tee and a pair of d’orsay flats. This black and white one from Zara ($59.90) will allow you to sit on the ground or bleachers without showing any dirt. For something more colorful, we like this one from Modcloth ($54.99)
The yellow and white shirtdress is eye-cathcing, yet totally effortless. It’s a fun, summer look that would look great with a short denim jacket! The reviews on Target’s website aren’t very good though…I will keep my eye out for a similar look that is higher quality.
Lovelylesley7, So glad you like the dress! And you are doing exactly what we want moms to do – to be inspired by what we post so if a piece doesn’t work for them in particular, they can keep an eye out for something similar. And yes, always read the reviews! They can be very helpful. And you’re correct, that dress would look great with a denim jacket!
I love this! But I am disappointed that you missed an opportunity to Rick Roll. Never, ever, pass up that opportunity! Serious question though– full skirt on short, slightly chubby mom– would you go longer or shorter in skirt length?
Hi Trophy Mom! Rick Roll? If you are going to wear it with flats or sneakers, go shorter. You can get away with a below the knee one if you wear it with a heel or wedge but since you’re short (like me) I’d go for shorter because that can work with both heels and flats.
I love all those items!