Category Archives: Spring
Spring Trends Moms Can Rock: White Lace
By Lisa Miller Is it me, or is white lace cropping up everywhere? If your children are older and there’s less risk of little fingerprint stains, run with it. White lace comes back time and again and can be season-proofed by adding layers. If your kids are young, trying taking this trend in a different… Read More
25 Stylish Ways To Wear A Scarf
By Kristin Hull As our loyal readers know, we here at The Mommy Stylist are big proponents of scarves. They’re inexpensive and versatile, and will amp up almost any outfit. And when old man winter rears his ugly head, or when the air conditioning at the office is going full force, they’ll help keep you… Read More
Editor’s Note: New Year’s Fashion Resolutions
By Lisa Miller Each year I set a fashion goal for myself. Four years ago, I decided to confidently dress my maternity and post-baby body. Three years ago I created my personal style board in Power Point. (Today, I use Pinterest.) Two years ago I started incorporating color into my wardrobe. Last year, I set about getting… Read More
How to Wear: Denim Shirts
By Kristin Hull The chambray/denim/blue jean shirt – whatever you call it, it’s infinitely cool, comfortable and versatile. They’re great on their own but can also be fantastic layering pieces. Try one over a dress or under a blazer, with just about any color, or peeking out from beneath a sweater or another shirt. You’ll wear… Read More
Ask TMS: Which Items Should A Mom Splurge On?
By Kristin Hull Recently, we’ve had several requests asking which wardrobe items a mom should splurge on. Fortunately, lower-cost items are looking pretty good and lasting surprisingly long these days so there really aren’t too many pieces that require an investment. But, the few that do are things we can’t live without because, simply put, they… Read More
How to Wear: Layers
By Lisa Miller Layering is creative way to add interest (and warmth!) to an outfit, a lethal fashion combination for the fall and winter seasons. Even better is that when done correctly, layers can be slimming – whether you want to emphasize a tiny waist or pull the eye away from problem areas like the thighs and stomach. What’s not… Read More
Get the Look: Simple and Sleek
By Kristin Hull First, a quick note to readers: As you know, one of the goals here at The Mommy Stylist is to make fashion quick and easy for moms. To that end, we’ve decided that when we provide outfit suggestions we will make all attempts to stick to one store for the entire outfit… Read More
What to Wear: Summer Evening Wedding
By Lisa Miller Along with summer weddings come travel, parties, showers, receptions, and the ever dreaded dress code. During all other seasons, wedding attire is straightforward: a formal dress, heels, a classic bag, a red lip and light eye makeup. In the summer, however, the warm weather throws the rule book out the window. With… Read More
Functional And Fashionable Swim Cover-Ups For Moms
By Lisa Miller I took my kids swimming, now what? You’re fresh out of the water, the little ones are shivering and the big kids take off down the beach to flirt with the cute new lifeguard. The afternoon dip was fantastic. Now it’s time to snap back to reality as you mentally prepare to… Read More
How To Wear: Tribal Prints
By Lisa Miller I remember hearing once, perhaps in a history of fashion class, that after traumatic national events (like 9/11 or the most recent recession) fashion tends to lean toward neutral colors and solid fabrics. A few years after, pops of red and other primary hues begin a scattered appearance. Eventually, as these events… Read More
How to Wear: Full Skirts
Mom’s Spring Shopping List
Brighten Your Wardrobe With Spring’s Must-Have Hues
By Lisa Miller with Ebony Benson Warm weather is finally on the horizon and spring is on its way. It is time to overhaul that drab winter wardrobe and get into some color. What shades should you invest in this season? How about some of the gorgeous hues in the Spring 2014 Pantone color fashion report?
Ask TMS: Casual Hot Weather Outfit Ideas
By Kristin Hull Dear Mommy Stylist, We recently moved to Dubai. I am loving the warm weather, but I am desperate for some new ideas for clothes. Relocating from France, I have been wearing jeans and tops with scarves for the last few years since I’ve stopped working and had my three kids (six, four… Read More
Our Styling Giveaway Winner’s First Look: City Chic
By Lisa Miller Before and After In the image above, the outfit on the left represents the typical “mommy uniform” worn by Emily Ragsdale, mother of two boys and winner of our Online Styling Session Giveaway. The outfit on the right is my take on how to liven up this cheerful, comfortable dress. Focus on… Read More
Stylist’s Secret: Runway Tips and Tricks for Everyday
By Lisa Miller Who says runway fashion doesn’t apply to real life? Sure, the garments may often be extravagant and expensive, but runway looks inspire the budget-friendly spin-offs that end up in our shopping bags, many of which are more flattering than the originals. Both sometimes need a little help to look their best. Models… Read More
What To Wear: Thanksgiving Day
By Lisa Miller Last year, we featured a dressier Thanksgiving look that was more suited to a formal holiday dinner. It’s still in style, so click the link to get inspired if this is the way your family rolls. However, if your gathering goes the way of sweaters and jeans, we’ve got something just as easy – but… Read More
Outfits For Moms: Business Casual
By Lisa Miller Heading to the office often creates a dilemma for moms – for a couple of reasons. First, the mommy vs. career woman conundrum: on one hand, you want to stay home all day and play with your kids, but on the other, you crave interaction with adults and conversation not centered on… Read More
Ask The Mommy Stylist: Go from retro costume to modern ensemble with one great dress
By Lisa Miller Dear Mommy Stylist, I have been invited to a 1950s retro theme party and have a dilemma. With my fall budget, I don’t want to spend money on something I’ll only wear once. Can you help me find a great outfit with some pieces I can use again? Thanks, Janice Having… Read More
Fall Trends You Can Actually Wear: Moto Jackets
By Kristin Hull If you thought moto jackets were just for punks and bikers, think again. Even the preppiest of moms can have a moto jacket all their own. The style remains the same but the patterns and fabric run the gamut from conservative khaki to feminine lace to everyday denim. No matter what your… Read More
Leggings: A Mom’s Best Friend
By Lisa Miller Let’s face it, moms need freedom of movement. We are always chasing children, picking up the house, getting in and out of the car, and running errands. All I can say is, thank goodness leggings have come back into our lives. Leggings wear well under airy tops, sweaters, and dresses making them… Read More
Get the Look: Button-Downs and Cut-Offs
By Kristin Hull Don’t let the fact that you’re not a twentysomething supermodel keep you from dressing like one. Ok, so maybe you won’t wear the same bathing suit but you certainly can take a cue from Alessandra Ambrosio’s cute everyday mom style. A button-down shirt is always classy and sophisticated, and when paired with… Read More
What To Wear: Working Out
By Lisa Miller As a mother and a martial artist, I realize how important it is to get in a workout during the week. The stress relief and confidence that exercise brings to your routine is indispensable. Whether you’re there for the weights or the eye candy, a solid wardrobe for hitting the gym (or… Read More
Get Glamorous With These Fashion Necessities for Nursing Moms
By Lisa Miller Hello, readers! I am finally returning from maternity leave. My beautiful new daughter is healthy and happy at three months. My wardrobe, however, isn’t. While some of my pre-pregnancy clothes fit, they aren’t functional. My maternity clothes are too big and, again, not functional. It’s tough enough dressing a mom figure, and… Read More
Try the Trend: Ankle Pants
By Kristin Hull Following the trends (in a grown-up and sophisticated way, of course) is one of the best ways to look put-together. One of our favorites this season is the ankle pant. Longer than cropped pants but shorter than regular pants, this versatile style can be worn by any body shape. Even better, they’ll… Read More
Stylish Swimsuits That Flatter and Hide in All The Right Places
By Kristin Hull Well ladies, we’ve once again come upon that dreaded time of year – swimsuit season. But, it needn’t be as bad as you think because we’ve found some figure-flatting and forgiving (i.e. gut- and butt-hiding) styles to make you feel like your nineteen-year-old self again. Remember though, you’ll have to shell out… Read More
Ask The Mommy Stylist: Mixing Color and Pattern
By Lisa Miller Since joining The Mommy Stylist team, I have received several inquiries about how to mix colors and patterns. Often viewed as daunting and tricky, most women tend to shy away from bold outfits while admiring them on others. Climbing out of the safe-zone and into the realm of color and pattern, even… Read More
Ask The Mommy Stylist: What Should I Wear to a Semi-Formal Business Dinner?
By Kristin Hull Dear Mommy Stylist, I need to find a dress to wear to a semi-formal dinner when I accompany my husband on a business trip. It’s a golf weekend in Pebble Beach in June for executives and their spouses. I know how to dress for my job, for being a mom, for hanging… Read More
Mom-to-Mom: What’s in My Diaper Bag
By Lisa Miller A bag may well be one of the most important accessories in every mom’s wardrobe. Whether it’s for lugging around diapers, sports equipment, work documents, school supplies, or just the essentials, we all need something fabulous and functional. In this mom-to-mom series, I’ll show you what’s in my bag and hopefully, inspire… Read More
Ask The Mommy Stylist: How To Quickly and Easily Add Color To Your Wardrobe
By Kristin Hull Dear Mommy Stylist, I wear a lot of black. In fact, my closet is filled with black clothes. I’d like to wear more color but don’t have the budget to go out and buy a whole new wardrobe. How can I brighten things up without spending a fortune? Denise Dear Denise, Have… Read More
What to Wear: Rainy Day
By Lisa Miller Don’t let April showers put a damper on your wardrobe. Instead, embrace the weather by donning fashionable rain gear and hitting the pavement in style. We’ve put together a couple of on-trend outfits perfect for the upcoming deluge. Enjoy keeping dry while looking fabulous! Outfit 1: Metallic Fringe Scarf ($8.80/Forever 21 – free shipping… Read More
What to Wear: Graduation Ceremony
By Kristin Hull Graduation parties often run the gamut from casual get-togethers to sassy soirées, but graduation ceremonies almost always fall into the dressier category. We’re not talking cocktail attire but rather, a pretty daytime ensemble that would also work for a shower or luncheon. Think sundresses with high-heeled sandals or a pair of bright-colored ankle… Read More
Spring Trends Moms Can Get on Board With: Ruffles
By Lisa Miller A longtime staple on little girls’ clothes, ruffles often get the bad rap of being too young, cutesy, and frilly to be taken seriously. These grown-up sexy ruffles, however, are nothing of the sort. They’ll add a flirty, feminine touch to your spring closet. From summery organza dresses to fun accessories, keeping… Read More
Spring Trends Moms Can Get on Board With: Florals
By Kristin Hull Before you dismiss florals as too frou-frou or too “old lady” take a look at our picks and you may just change your mind. From vintage prints to modern, there’s something for everyone. Florals come in varying sizes, colors, patterns and styles; they work on all body types and will last through… Read More
Spring Trends Moms Can Get on Board With: Stripes
By Lisa Miller Love stripes? Then, lucky for you because all types, widths, and colors are on trend this spring. Stock up, but save big with these Mommy Stylist-approved (see the TMS Mission Statement) pieces. Wearing stripes can be tricky; thick horizontal stripes can make you look wider while thin ones won’t. Multi-directional stripes can be… Read More
Spring Trends Moms Can Get on Board With: Brights
By Kristin Hull Do you always see other women wearing color and envy them? Do you wonder if you can pull it off? Well, you can. This spring one of the hottest trends is bright colors so now is the perfect time to step out of your comfort zone and dive in. One of… Read More
Spring Trends Moms Can Get On Board With: Sheers
By Lisa Miller Don’t be afraid to try sheers this spring. Sheer fabric can make an outfit look, and feel, a bit breezier; add interest to that otherwise plain top; or give a little peek of skin without going tank-top-teen-trashy. They’ll add softness and femininity to leather and create a free, bohemian look with jeans.… Read More
Spring Trends Mom Can Get On Board With: Colored Lace
By Kristin Hull Sometimes, when people think of lace they think of grandmothers and bygone eras. But the truth is, that when done right, lace is lovely, super-feminine – and yes, even fashionable. This spring the classic fabric has been modernized with color. Blues, reds, pinks, greens, oranges and yellows abound. And it doesn’t always… Read More
Ask The Mommy Stylist: Look Put-Together In 5 Minutes
By Lisa Miller As moms, fitting everything into the day and looking good is a challenge. There is always something to clean, cook, mend, prepare, etc. Remember, taking at least five minutes for you is important for your mental health and physical stamina. Ever notice how you feel better, stronger when you look your best?… Read More
Spring Fashion: Trends That Will Work For Moms
By Kristin Hull Even though some of you are still bundled up in a winter coat, spring will be here before we know it. So, now is the perfect time to familiarize yourself with the upcoming trends. I know, I know, you’ve already got enough on your mind. But, don’t worry; we’re here to give… Read More
Ask The Mommy Stylist: How To Keep Your Husband From Cramping Your Style
By Lisa Miller In response to our recent post on looking fashionable in sports apparel, we received a request for a special dad feature and thought, why not? I mean, his style can certainly affect your style. And if you’re working so hard on yours then maybe we should get him polished up a bit too… Dear Mommy Stylist,… Read More
Mom to Mom: The Best Jeans Ever #2
By Lisa Miller A few months after my daughter was born, I found I was spending all of my extra time and money on her. Selfless as it sounds, I have to admit a big part of me was trying to avoid dressing my new body. I kept trying to put off purchasing clothes, justifying… Read More
A Fall Trend Moms Can Use: Blazers
By Kristin Hull Blazers are a huge trend right now and will continue to be into fall. They are a fantastic to have on hand when you want to look classy but not like you’re trying too hard. They can be casual and worn with jeans or dressy when paired with a skirt or dress.… Read More
What to Wear: Summer Picnic
By Kristin Hull It’s hard to look cute at a picnic. Whether it’s a holiday barbecue or a company outing, you want an outfit that will allow you stay cool, move easily and sit on the ground or at a picnic table. For most people that means a pair of shorts and a top. There’s nothing wrong… Read More
What I Wore: Easy Casual or Dressy Summer Look
By Kristin Hull I got this dress at Target a few days ago for $24.99). It is a high-low dress so it’s a bit longer in the back. This type of dress is a hot trend right now and was all over the runways. If you are short like me make sure the “high” part… Read More
Mom Spring Must-Haves: Pastels
By Kristin Hull Spring fashion is in full bloom so it’s time to get on board with some of the new trends. Over the next few weeks I’ll let you know what those trends are and do the shopping for you. Keeping up with the latest fashions creates a more youthful appearance. It keeps us looking… Read More
What I Wore: Lazy Sunday
By Kristin Hull Last Sunday, my husband and I were having a lazy day but we needed to go out and get a few things done. I did not feel like getting all gussied up for Bed, Bath and Beyond or Home Depot but I didn’t want to feel gross and pray I wasn’t going… Read More
Accessorize Me: Lunch Outfit
By Kristin Hull As I’ve been studying outfits on everyday people the one thing I see that most women are lacking is accessories. Most outfits only need a little bit of accessorizing to make them a lot more stylish. So, I thought it might be fun for you guys to send in photos of yourselves… Read More
What to Wear: Running Errands #2
By Kristin Hull Looks like the folks at People StyleWatch appreciate drapey sweaters as much as I do. Neither of the women in the photos are wearing anything particularly interesting underneath – but they don’t need to because when a drapey sweater is added, voila, instant style. It’s as easy as that. Take the ensemble… Read More
Need Some Cute Everyday Tops? Try These.
By Kristin Hull While perusing the latest catalog from Alloy, I found several tops that fit the “mom criteria” of inexpensive, stylish, versatile and figure-flattering so I thought I’d share them with you. Any of them will be a good investment because they can be worn either casually or dressed up and they’ll work year-round… Read More
What to Wear: Christmas Day
By Kristin Hull If your family is like mine, Christmas day is fairly casual. But we still try to look a little special and festive and my guess is that you do too. So I put together an outfit that I’m not only suggesting you wear, but that I’ll wear as well. Unfortunately, Target doesn’t… Read More
What to Wear: Holiday Party Dresses
Everyone loves to get all gussied up for the holidays but who wants to spend a ton of money on a something you may only wear a few times? Not me. So, I’ve scoured the stores to find you some great dresses that are reasonably priced, that can be worn again for other occasions, that… Read More
What to Wear: Thanksgiving Day
By Kristin Hull What to wear on Thanksgiving is a tough one. You want it to be a special but comfortable, too. It must work for cooking as well as eating. You have to be able to sit on the floor and play a game with the kids, and also sit at the table looking… Read More
Outfit Ideas From The Mommy Stylist Event
By Kristin Hull In case you didn’t see the post on our Facebook page, I recently had a Mommy Stylist event at Movida, a boutique in Dallas. For the party, I styled three mannequins with clothing from the store and indicated what kinds of mommy occasions they’d be good for. Although most of the pieces… Read More
Ask The Mommy Stylist: Outfits For Vegas Business Trip
By Kristin Hull Dear Mommy Stylist, I am a married working mom with two babies at home. I have a conference for work in Vegas in a few weeks (mid-November so kind of chilly). I work in the technology industry (conservative, technical, geeky industry). 🙂 I am looking for ideas for outfits that can work for… Read More
Fall Essentials: Rain Gear
By Kristin Hull There are lots of great raincoats out there but both of these will suit moms particularly well. They are casual enough to wear on the soccer field yet dressy enough for a business lunch. And because they’re black they’ll go with anything (the reversible one is great for when you want some… Read More
What I’m Wearing Today: I Don’t Feel Like Getting Dressed Casual
By Kristin Hull Today I went out of the house for the first time in six days. I’ve been in bed with a horrible cold for an entire week. And frankly, I really didn’t feel up to going out but I was low on food when I got sick and during the week managed to… Read More
Stylist’s Secret: Hats (Yes, you can!)
By Kristin Hull If you’re going to be a stylish mom you must get over your fear of hats. One of the easiest ways to instantly add panache to even the most ordinary outfit is with a hat. But not just any hat. It has to be a fashionable hat (see photos above). And there… Read More
What I’m Wearing Today: The PTA Meeting Outfit
By Kristin HUll I realized as I was walking out the door this morning that the outfit I am wearing today is really close to the one I put together for the PTA meeting post. So I thought I’d snap a pic and show it to you to illustrate how it all looks on a… Read More
What to Wear: PTA Meeting (Or Any Parent-Only School Function)
By Kristin Hull In case you’re wondering, the pieces in these outfits are meant to be worn together. You can always just utilize parts of it but beware that if you just buy this purse and wear it with a frumpy dress, the frumpy dress will suck all the fashion life out of the purse.… Read More