Have you been to the mall lately? Wow, the stores are packed with new looks. It’s so refreshing to see so many great pieces that can really enhance a mom’s closet. However, buyer beware! Some of this season’s hottest trends just do not work in a mom’s world. I’ve identified this Summer’s hits and misses for moms below and if you still want more style news and views, please join me at my new site:
Here we go…
GREEN LIGHT – GO FOR THE FOLLOWING!
Bermudas – Cuter than capris and more sensible than shorts, Bermudas are back bigtime and are in my opinion a must-have for moms. Why? Because the knee-skimming length (like a knee-length skirt) suits just about everyone, no matter your body type. They look just as great with T’s and flats, as heels and shirts, and can even be dressed up for smarter occasions. And, all this can be achieved in comfort and with your modesty in tact. Here are casual denim Bermudas from The Gap and a dress up or down, white version from Esprit.
The long top – At last! Tops meet our pants, skirts, shorts etc and covers the mom mid section! (Brittney, apparently, has not yet heard of this trend.) Yes, I know that the new long top can be a little overwhelming for petites. If you can’t find a good selection in the petites section, try a chain or other loose belt just below the waist and wear it as a tunic (also a hot look and flattering on most body types.) These examples are from Old Navy, (don’t forget the cami or tank under the plunging v neck.)
With their flowing designs, "baby-doll" styles can also be a great mom option. Just be careful that the amount of flowing fabric is not too overwhelming for your proportions. This design also tends to look most flattering on small to medium busts, because the lower portion of the top lies flatter. (On large busts, the lower part of the top may be "inflated" and can look like maternity wear all over again!) Goddess-style in chocolate from The Gap. Pink "hottie" from American Eagle.
The jersey dress – When the summer heat hits, what could be simpler for a time-strapped mom than slipping on a dress and a pair of sandals? Answer: the no-fuss, jersey dress. It’s soft, makes movement easy (translation: chasing kids), is easy care, and can be dressed up or down. This Gap dress would work equally well with heels for an evening out or under a jacket at the office. The sporty American Eagle version will help you keep (your) cool all day.
Fantastic footwear – I’m sure that I’ve never seen such a great selection of mom-friendly footwear! (I shiver with excitement as I write.) From flats to heels in every design, colour, pattern and price-range. I know we have heel and flat fans out there, and everything in between, so here’s a little something for everyone and why I think they work in a mom’s world.
Wear these floral flats from the Shoe Company with plain pants, capris, Bermuda’s or denim or add a little sophistication with these cool, thong sandals from Lands’ End.
Fans of medium heels (yours truly included) need look no further than this espadrille version of the flip flop from the Shoe Company (perfect with pants, capris, Bermudas, long or knee-length skirts) or these mini-heeled slip-ons from Payless.
If you are head over heels about, well…heels, these wedge sandals from American Eagle and Payless look comfortable and sturdy enough to give chase to a toddler and still accent that summer dress perfectly.
The terrific tankini – Another great idea for us moms and our midsections, but often in limited options. No more. The tankini has turned mainstream and there are great choices from mix n’ match tops and bottoms, to colours, patterns and innovative designs. I love the new look neckline on this sleek version from Lands’ End. Check-out SportChek for a variety of reasonably priced tops and bottoms, like this pink floral.
RED LIGHT: STOP RIGHT THERE!
Short shorts and skimpy minis – Sorry ladies. While we are hip, cool and trendy moms, I’m afraid our days of "shorter than short" are over. Even if you survived pregnancy without varicose veins, cellulite, lines of various colours, dents, dimples, pimples, etc. on your legs, leave these to the teens and tweens. Anyway, they’re not comfortable and with all that tugging and standing/sitting just-so, they are too much hassle. Because we are hip, cool, trendy moms, we know this makes sense. Go for Bermuda’s, mid thigh shorts or knee length skirts instead. This flirty mini from American Eagle is a no. Go for something similar to this soft pleated skirt from Banana Republic.
Transparent bags – I don’t now about you, but I don’t want to give the outside world such a clear view into the contents of my life, ummm… I mean bag. What are the designers thinking? Who wants to have a half eaten bagel, clump of Kleenex, dirty sippy cup and Tampax on show? If you like the transparent trend, salute it in another way with a piece of clear jewellry. Lands’ End has a great selction of totes, this just wouldn’t be my choice. The clear beaded necklace is from Victoria’s Secret online store.
Tube Tops – Dangerous, very dangerous! One yank from a tantrumming todler or catch it on the shelf in the grocery store and there could be a lot more on display in aisle #4 than you bargained for. No, leave these for child-free occasions. (And, always wear with a great strapless bra beneath.) Alternatively, take a look at other designs that provide a similar look, but with the benefit of a safety strap. These are both from American Eagle.
I hope the above provides some useful ideas for surviving the summer in style. Do share your own tips, talk about the trends you love and send in your style questions.
Hello – Thanks for your comments. It seems that legs are cornering the comments so here are a couple of leg ideas. Want to show off your great legs? Also consider skinny pants, straight legged jeans and capris and knee-length pencil skirts. (Don’t forget the heels!) To take the focus away from legs, go for darker colours on the bottom and lights and brights on top. Also consider cool, wideleg pants (linen or linen blend make a great summer staple,) long floaty skirts and chic capris. Most of all – feel good about what you are wearing and yourself.
I’m one of those rare people who cannot wear bermudas. They draw way too much attention to thick legs. Thank God I can find mid thigh shorts this year – could not find them anywhere last year!!! Love the goddess style top from the Gap! Also the pink american eagle one. I’m afraid to go into american eagle. I thought it was for teenagers!!
i have a few short skirts and actually really like them. i think my legs are my best asset. i borrow clothes from my teenage daughter. she hates it and says i look silly but they are stylish and flattering, imo. if you got it, flaunt it! your never too old.
I LOVE the Bermudas! I have them in a huge range of colours and wear them to work with heels and a blouse and to the park.
I also love jersey dresses…have a bunch of them too. Hmmm…I think I have a problem 😉