On WTF do I wear now that I'm a mom?!
Top of Mind 11.16.23
“Style is something each of us already has, all we need to do is find it.”
- Diane von Fürstenberg
Currently….
Is it just me, or are you utterly confused on how to dress yourself?
Amidst the pandemic, the work-from-home norm, body changes from pregnancy and postpartum twice, and the general whirlwind of mom-life, I found myself retreating into the comfort of athleisure, while my "real" clothes gathered dust and grew outdated (hello stack of skinny jeans).
I tried to make sense of the latest trends by scrolling through social media, but the whole "yes to athletic sneakers with pants, no to cropped jean jackets" narrative left me even more disoriented. My closet was in desperate need of a refresh.
I chose to tackle this issue systematically rather than impulsively. Fortunately, Allison Bornstein's new book, "Wear It Well," became my guide. If you're in a style slump, grab this book - it's a game changer. She breaks down the nine universal pieces you need in your closet, even explains how to dress when you WFH, and of course helps you define her coined "three word method." It helped me map out my style using three words: 'Minimal,' referring to my love for neutrals and simplicity; 'Textured,' which is my nod to materials with dimension and fine detail; and 'Effortless,' because who doesn't want to feel comfortable, chic, and relaxed?
Next I needed to clear out all those items in my closet I just couldn’t part with over the years. I actually did this as an attempt to step away from being glued to my phone doomscrolling the devastation of the war and the terrifying acts happening here in the US. I shut the door and started purging clothes that no longer served my style or fit properly. I fully embraced the mantra "less is more."
Now I needed to visualize what my three words actually translated to in style. So I turned to Instagram to find style icons whose fashion sense aligned with my 'Minimal, Textured, Effortless' vibe. I saved their outfit ideas into a special folder for inspiration, remembering that my ideal wardrobe should compliment my life, not complicate it. Some of my favorites include @leasy_inparis, @jordannasharp, @igawysocka, @_ssiana, @jodielapetitefrenchie, @thegraydetails, @lifewithjazz, @chloemaymcginley, and @ashleykane, amongst others.
I then found potential items to purchase, compared my options and made my picks.
Over the last couple of months I went from feeling lost in my own closet to building my personal style - which is still very much a work in progress. And here’s what I now know: your style is an extension of your identity, and learning to express it confidently is a powerful journey, much like the beautiful path of motherhood. It’s worth your attention.
All The Things
I’m almost an exclusive online shopper, but found myself in the Mission and couldn’t resist the opportunity to try on clothes in person at Everlane. Here’s everything I bought.
Supima Form Crew Neck The perfect chocolate brown fitted tee
The Way-High Jean Finally found a pair of washed black jeans I love
The Way-High Drape Pant Dress these up or down for an effortless look
Organic Cotton Box Cut Tee Box cut tee with unique seam detail from collar to underarm, 3 for $60
The Way-High Sailor Jean Wide but not too wide leg jeans, size down
What’s New
My latest favorites
Thanks for the continued support on this journey,
Barbara Mighdoll