*Collaborative post
Being a mother is more than a full-time job. What with the daily juggling act of getting children ready for school, feeding them, supervising their homework, and attending their weekend activities, on top of your own work and family commitments, taking time out for self-care often takes a back seat. Your personal sense of style is often one of the first things to go. You stop dressing up and putting outfits together because you simply don’t have the time or energy. But it doesn’t have to be this way. There are easy ways to regain and then maintain your sense of style as a busy mum. Let’s take a look:
Building the right wardrobe
When shopping for clothes, think about what actually suits your lifestyle. Fill your wardrobe with items that help you feel comfortable, confident, and beautiful. If you’re constantly on the go, look for stylish clothes that you can easily throw on quickly without much thought. Luckily, stylish but comfy clothing is becoming much more popular. Look for brands like SKIMS that deliberately combine comfort, simplicity, and style.
It’s often a good idea to go for timeless, versatile items like a classic white shirt, a pair of well-fitting jeans, stylish flats and a chic leather bag. You can mix and match these pieces to create a range of stylish looks. Choose comfortable athleisure if you’re constantly on the go.
Investing in quality over quantity
Buying lots of cheap, trendy clothes might feel tempting, but investing in high-quality, timeless pieces is a smarter choice. High-quality clothes not only last longer; they also look better. Choose clothes that suit your daily routine while still looking stylish, and you’ll find it much easier to maintain your sense of style. You’ll also save money in the long term if you opt for quality over quantity. The maths of Cost Per Wear (CPW) doesn’t lie – a £50 blouse that you can wear 50 times before it wears out is much better value for money than a £20 blouse that you can only wear 10 times before it shows wear and tear.
Accessorising
Add accessories to change the look of an ordinary outfit. A necklace, scarf, belt, or well-chosen handbag can completely change the look of a simple dress. Likewise, brightly coloured shoes or a handbag can lift a plain outfit. Then there’s jewellery. Something as simple as a pendant on a slim chain can add a touch of elegance to any top, and rings and bracelets will help you to feel stylish without cluttering the clean lines of your outfit.
The importance of self-care
Looking stylish isn’t only about the clothes you wear. Looking after your skin and hair matters too. Set aside regular time for skincare and beauty routines. You’ll look after your appearance while giving yourself some valuable ‘me-time’, which can help you protect your mental wellbeing. Include a simple skincare routine and a few easy hairstyles that fit into your busy schedule.
Opting for professional styling
Sometimes, you just need a little help. A professional stylist can create a personalised style guide that suits your body type, preferences and lifestyle. The guide can simplify your shopping and help you buy clothes that suit you. Many online platforms now offer virtual styling services, making professional advice much easier for busy mums to access.
Conclusion
Finding your style as a busy mum takes planning, prioritising and self-care. Remember that your role as a mum is incredibly important, but don’t let it overshadow your individuality and personal style. Follow these simple tips, and you can feel confident and stylish every day, proving that being a mum and being fashionable are not mutually exclusive.