Friday, June 15, 2012

the tops

I have been eyeing a few tops that look great for nursing that I plan to get next month (birthday month!)

When I said in my last post that I "usually" wear a trapeze top or shirt tail sweater, I meant that I alternate between those two EVERY DAY. While I get great satisfaction out of really wearing my clothes, neither wardrobe item is an inspired choice for a dinner party or museum exhibit. So here are the tops that TOP my list. (Yes, that was painful for me too).

petal window tee ($38; anthro)
directional dolman ($68; anthro)
my mantra short sleeve tee ($58; lululemon)



As an aside, all nursing tops seem to be either wrap shirts (pretty, but not me), maternity shirts (because being pregnant and getting dressed was AWESOME), or super expensive.

As another aside, I have never purchased anything from lululemon before, so this adorable top may be my first. Lululemon makes gorgeous, excellent quality gear. Unfortunately, since my workout clothes consist of a leotard, over-sized faded shirts and sweats, and weird 80's running shorts, I hesitate to dip my toe in the pool of expensive/attractive ones. Lord knows I cannot buy a whole new 'exercise wardrobe.'

Did I mention that the ONLY exercise I do is walking?

Saturday, June 9, 2012

mom jeans

Since my last post I became a mom. I can't believe our little Ralphie is nearly six months old!

I've noticed that there's an unfortunate dearth of positive words describing moms and mom-style.

There's 'mom jeans.' And of course 'mom hair.' And the ever cliched 'soccer mom.' All sound harmless but are actually pretty loaded if you ask me.

Over the last half year, I have struggled with the myriad challenges of motherhood (specifically stay-at-home motherhood), in which what I wear plays a pivotal role.

Certainly I have less time to get dressed. And to be sure my son loves me not-an-ounce-less if I look crappy.

But now more than ever, I've learned that dressing like I care (because I do) and like I matter (because I do!!) makes a huge difference in my attitude. And starting the day with a positive outlook is crucial (especially when my husband working 24 or 48 hours in a row)!

My favorite easy outfit is a navy blue romper that can be worn with or without a belt and is comfortable and appropriately funky at the same time.

My other go-to's are essentially what I wore B.R. (before Ralph): tight (but comfy) AG skinnies, a trapeze top or sweater (for easy nursing access), and converse low-tops or Minnetonka moccasins.

While I am not winning any style awards, having a uniform that is practical and fits my body and personality means that I can get ready for the day in a pinch and feel confident - and visible! - when Ralph and I hit the town.