I’ve always been interested in fashion, and putting together outfits has been a favorite hobby of mine for years (you can see regular style posts on my personal blog, Shea Lennon). However, after having a baby and going back to work, getting dressed became something I dreaded rather than looked forward to.
My wardrobe was an odd mix of things that worked for me before I got pregnant, as well as items in various styles and sizes that I tried to make work for my new and improved (ha!) post-baby body. I went through a lot of trial-and-error before I found a few pieces that worked for me time and again.
Here are a few versatile staples that would go a long way in a working mom’s wardrobe.
{one} a solid colored cardigan. This is a great layering piece, and it adds both warmth and interest to any outfit. One trick for looking put-together is the “rule of three,” which means in addition to a top and bottom, you need a third “completer” piece to finish your look. This cardigan is the perfect example of such a piece.
{two} a chambray shirt. A chambray shirt is one of the most versatile shirts I own. It can easily be dressed up or down, and because of its neutral color it goes with pretty much anything. Also, it can be layered underneath sweaters or worn open like a jacket.
{three} a denim jacket. A denim jacket is another great option for a layering piece, and it works well with skirts, dresses, and pants alike.
{four} black pants. Personally, I love black ponte knit pants, because they feel like leggings but the fabric is substantial enough to make them pants. They’re what I wear when I feel like wearing jeans but need to look a bit more dressed up.
{five} a colorful scarf. A scarf is an easy thing to throw on to make it look like you put thought into your look, even if you didn’t. It’s another piece that easily adds a finishing touch to an outfit.
{six} a striped dress. I love having a few go-to dresses in my wardrobe that can be dressed up or down. I love a striped version because the pattern stands alone well, but also mixes well with other patterns. Nursing and pumping moms, a shirt-dress or wrap-style dress would probably be more functional for you.
Here are five outfit combinations you can make with those six pieces.
What are your wardrobe staples? If you’re a stay-at-home or work-from-home mom, I’d love to hear your staples as well.
What a great round up! The only thing I’m missing is the dress!
Thanks Becky! I have a striped dress but wear it so much I think I need another 🙂
This is soooo true! Of course I do love me some prints here and there. All of these basic pieces really hold a wardrobe together. I have to admit my denim jacket has seen better days. (; Perhaps this is the year I splurge on a replacement!