Redefining My Style (as a toddler mom)

Outfit details: JCrew Shorts, JCrew Factory Top (old, similar)

With body changes post pregnancy and being in a new stage of life chasing a toddler around, my wardrobe really needs an update. I want things that fit well and are comfortable, but want to select them carefully—I’m seeing this as a time to redefine my style and purchase things that are better quality and a little less “fast fashion”. I could never be a minimalist, but I do like the idea of purging my closet, getting rid of the old and worn, ill-fitting clothes and even things I just can’t imagine wearing again at this stage of life. As I rebuild my wardrobe, I want to be more intentional with my purchases and maybe fill my closet up slightly less, instead, focusing on quality pieces I LOVE over quantity for the sake of that “something new” feeling. I’m still figuring out what my style will really be, gathering inspiration to figure out what will make me feel good, but also be realistic for my daily life. I’ve also been really looking at what colors I should keep in my closet. I’ve never shied away from color before, but have been more and more intrigued by the idea of figuring out what “my” colors are. I’ve been seeing people talk about getting their colors done all over social media. And while I don’t think that you have to stick with the colors you might get assigned if there’s something that you love to wear despite them not being in your “color season”, I do think it’s good to keep in mind what really makes you shine.

Let’s talk shorts. I’m looking for comfortable, not too short, can be dressed up or dressed down shorts. I’m not opposed to denim, but I think mostly I’m looking at other materials, both for the comfort and for them looking a little more elevated. I ordered these in both white and red and have been loving them. Being a little wider around the bottom means they don’t ride up and is more flattering on your leg. For a classic short, I went with this 5 inch chino style in navy and have also found them ultra comfortable. The front pockets on these make them feel a little different. I liked a lot of the colors, but went with the light blue and added this belt to dress them up.

Casual tops, but make them a little more interesting. Comfort is a theme here. Having an almost 2-year-old means I don’t have time to be adjusting my clothes or to not feel comfortable. But I don’t always want to wear yoga pants and plain t-shirts. I’ve found quite a few casual shirts that have a fun little interest added to them to take them up a notch from the casual tank or tee like this lavender flutter sleeve tshirt or this one which is similar but has a lovely eyelet detail on the sleeve.

Dresses have always been my summertime go-to. They’re easy to throw on and make you look put together when really all you did was put on one item of clothing. My closet is full of them and so while I always like adding to my collection, it’s not currently a top priority. Things I look for in my ideal summer dress would be a lightweight fabric and no zipper (I’ve been loving things with a slight elastic waist)—I often look for a little flutter or cap sleeve too, but it depends on just how hot it is. This blue floral dress has a classic print and can be worn for many seasons and dressed up or down. I’ve had my eye on this gorgeous Hill House dress forever and it comes in too many prints to choose from!

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