Notes on Motherhood and Style

Any style advice for mothers trying to keep up with trends? 

The oversized loose fit shift that's been happening for a while now is a trend I was reluctant to try, but I'm starting to dabble in it and Wow! So comfy, fun, casual and cool. Definitely mom life approved. But I would also add; Don't overlook your basics. Trends are fun to add in here or there. But a solid pair of jeans and a few good tanks, tees and tops are the base you need to make getting dressed everyday fun and effortless. I avoided basics for a long time and chased all the cute statement pieces but often still couldn't pull together outfits. And it's because I didn't have the solid foundation for my closet to build on. 

How about for expecting mamas trying to find pieces to wear through pregnancy? 

Woooh! Pregnancy is full of just so many emotions - all the warm fuzzy feelings and love for your precious baby, but then the rapid changes to your body that can make you feel a little out of control. Luckily, the current trend toward more oversized fits is super bump friendly and will allow you to shop outside the maternity section. 

I wish I had invested in a couple of well fitting basics during my pregnancies instead of trying to make do with clothes I had that kept getting tighter and random hand-me-downs that didn't feel true to my style. Even though it's only 9 months, it's a really important time to feel comfortable and confident. I know for me all the feelings about my changing body were compounded by poorly-fitting maternity clothes. 

You don't need a whole lot, but a great pair of leggings, maternity jeans, a loose button down shirt, and some easy breezy dresses will see you through really well. 

Any other tips to all the moms out there? 

It probably sounds silly, but one of the harder parts of becoming a mama for me was accepting my changing body and all the squishy newness of pregnancy and postpartum. If I could go back, I would try to reframe my perspective for one of grace toward my body and appreciation of the literal miracle she was housing. Instead of judging every new stretch mark and pound, I would tell myself that this is a season not forever. It's okay to have an extra chin because the tiny person growing inside is worth it. And even now that I'm past breastfeeding and sleep training days, my body is still changing. But it's okay that potty training is hard work (and I'm convinced literally bringing in silver hairs) because the payoff is absolutely worth it. 

Outfit by Thread and Seed

Photos by Diana Rose Photography