Being a new mom is hard for many reasons outside of your control, but dressing shouldn’t be one of them. I think the issue is that the market caters to moms in an overly utilitarian way, not at all considering that one might want to also look cute? I don’t know, just a thought. I was determined to not succumb to how the algorithm views me and spent quite a bit of time studying outfit formulas that are both simple and stylish for us new moms.
Some things I considered when putting these outfits together are easy access for breastfeeding moms, the ability to "throw it on,” mix-and-match pieces, and the effortless '90s mom aesthetic. If you’re in the trenches and don’t have time to think about your next outfit, keep scrolling. I rounded up five outfit formulas that you’ll able to replicate piece by piece, bar by bar.
Crew-Neck Sweater + Bermuda Shorts + Dress Shoes
It doesn't get much easier than this outfit formula! A fuzzy sweater is more special than a regular cardigan and immediately upgrades your outfit. Pair it with longline jorts like the ones pictured here or with elevated sweats for a casual but still put-together look. Last, short socks and dress shoes really make the outfit and give it a more refined look.
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This color plus the chunky knit are divine.
Brown is definitely a trending color, and this pattern is sick. Reminds me of a Rorschach test.
So fuzzy and festive.
It's hard finding jorts that are this long and still fit around the waist. These are winners.
Try these with a cute top for mama's night out.
Those shoes you one day tell your kids "are older than you!"
Button-Down + Midi Skirt + Classic Accessories
If there's one thing I'll lean into, it'll be the '90s-mom aesthetic. Think Julia Roberts in Stepmom. It's the perfect aesthetic in my opinion: clean lines, luxuriously comfortable, and giving "I have eyes on the back of my head" energy. Matilda does it so well here by combining a classic '90s-mom silhouette with red flats to modernize the look.
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Loving this cropped shape!
Pinstripes will always give off the coolest, undone vibe.
This skirt provides more mobility for chasing after your baby.
There are a million denim skirts out there at the moment, but this one nails it. Everything from the shade to the slit that's not too high is perfect. Dress it up with kitten heels as pictured for a nighttime look, or wear it with a sweater and flats for everyday.
I need not say much about these sunglasses—10/10.
A red ballet flat is so chic, especially as it ages.
Statement Pieces + Casual Jacket
Perhaps the easiest way to stay current, not only as a mom, is to invest in statement accessories. Low risk, high reward. The best companion to trend-forward pieces is a casual jean jacket or similar. I love this look because it defies what the algorithm wants us moms to look like.
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The detail of this fabric is über-cool.
Pair this playful hat with more serious, tailored pieces for a whimsical surprise.
We love a cropped trench.
Can't go wrong with this jacket.
Soccer mom.
Part-time circus act, part-time mom.
I'd wear this with all my baggy, ripped tees.
Maxi Skirt + Cozy Cardigan
Adding a beautiful maxi skirt to an otherwise laid-back 'fit is the ultimate mom-outfit hack. A maxi skirt is arguably just as comfortable as your favorite sweats and packs such a big punch. Cardigans are another fave of mine because they are more put-together than a sweatshirt but also just as comfortable.
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Double zips have my heart.
Feeling like Lynn from Girlfriends in this one.
This skirt is a lifer.
Tuck in your favorite white T-shirt, and you have an outfit in less than 10 seconds.
I think black denim skirts are making a comeback.
Front-Open Top + Low-Rise Pants
If you're a breastfeeding mom, you know that finding cute tops that open in the front is an Olympic sport. This one fits the bill and, when paired with low-rise jeans, feels so youthful. I will be replicating this look over and over again.
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How fabulous.
The little peek of midriff is very flattering.
These are sold out everywhere! Hold up, buying a pair for myself…
Bury me in corduroy.
The fabric weight, the bagginess, the fit… These look ideal.
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