Out of the Closet

We know, you have nothing to wear. It’s a serious female condition that afflicts us all despite our overstuffed closets. And it can definitely be tough to find flattering, age appropriate outfits that are fun and functional for daily mommy wear.

But, according to local stylist, entrepreneur and publisher of Mommy Wear Daily and savvymom, Kim Flanagan, you too can be the sexy, stylish and fun woman you knew before the belly bump, nursing bra and sensible shoes. Turn over a new leaf this spring and take Kim’s advice with her top wardrobe strategies for moms right now.

1. Get a good bra and supportive underwear. Spanx is a Flanagan fave but take yourself to a good lingerie store and get fitted properly. Your body has changed since the last time you bought yourself a really nice bra.
2. Invest in a good pair of jeans for your body type. Try a store that sells a wide variety and try on a lot of styles—and read the label. If they have 2% Lycra, they will stretch out a full size after a few wearings so keep that in mind.
3. Pick up a structured jacket you love and wear it with everything you own including jeans, skirts and shorts.
4. 2009 is the year to buy fun go-with-anything metallic shoes and purses. If you are buying just one pair of shoes this year (aren’t we all?), make them gunmetal.

5. Avoid 100% cotton tees. Stick to synthetics or cotton blends with bamboo. They will hang better and look more sophististicated, while still being comfy.
6. Add color to your wardrobe. Chocolate mauve or aubergine is a great neutral this year. If you are uncomfortable wearing a lot of color, look to your shoes, handbag or accessories.
7. Think all season. Layer a summer tank under a wrap sweater or wear your denim skirt with boots and leggings in the winter.
8. Don’t wait for weight. Buy what looks good on you now rather than waiting until you are the “right” size. Be honest about your size (either larger or smaller) and remember that you might wear different sizes at different stores.

If you would like to go a step further and get a little hands-on help, you can even schedule a closet consultation with Mommy Wear Daily. Flanagan will come out to your home, empty your closet, organize your clothing and help you create outfits from your existing wardrobe. From there she will make suggestions and help you shop for clothing she thinks will accent you and your closet.

It doesn’t have to cost a lot to update your wardrobe and recover from the nothing-to-wear syndrome. Go with a trusted friend and have fun.

Savvy Special: Enjoy $40 off Mommy Wear Daily’s consulting services when you mention you are a SavvyMom subscriber.

Comments