Mommy Style

Next up in mommy fashion we head to J. Crew! (Or J.Crew online for the added convenience.) The chosen item is the woman’s “Boy Shirt” in Indian voile (that’s cotton!), specifically in bright emerald because it’s a universally flattering color that will carry you through into spring.

The shirt is a lightweight button down oxford with sleeves you can roll up or leave down. It’s in their classic men’s shape but with seams at the bust to keep it ladylike and fitted which is perfect for when you’re looking for comfort but don’t actually want to borrow a man’s clothing.

The shirt is sophisticated enough to wear in a formal or business situation, but since it’s a lightweight cotton it’s also an easy fit at home. Tuck it in, belt it, or leave it unbuttoned with a tank for an even more casual experience. It won’t feel stiff when you bend your arms like a traditional button down can, think more like a comfy flannel but half the weight.

It’s available in numerical sizes 00-16 and in a couple other jewel tone colors. Supposedly they run a bit large so don’t leave too much room for growth/movement, or whatever else you need space for in there. At $69.50, it’s a reasonable way to add a go-to staple to your day-to-day collection.

-By guest blogger Kate Ferguson

Mommy Style

If you’ve been searching for a midway point between denim and leggings, the ‘Riding Pant’ from American Apparel is a perfect choice! It has all the substance of a jean with the movement of your favorite yoga pants, but won’t ever surprise you with any sheer moments when you bend to swoop up toddlers, groceries, or both at the same time.

The Spandex/Nylon blend keeps its shape intact (and yours) with a form-fitting high waist and zipper plus dual button closure on the fly. Reminiscent of a girdle, minus the girdle. There won’t be any stretching out here so buy the size that fits you best as is, we don’t want it slipping around or stealing your breath.

Style wise we’ve got a small verticle ribbing like what you’d find on a corduroy pant and a patch on the inside of each leg like a real riding pant. The pant comes in eight colors including grey and black which are great basics, or try the village green to add some vibrancy while remaining understated and easy to match. The earthy tones are easy to pair with other neutrals in a sweater or jacket, or mix with any bright or printed tee. Awesome with a button down blouse or flannel. The leg is fitted with a tiny taper so it can stand alone with a heel, slip into a boot, or make friends with your favorite TOMS.

Sizes are available from XS-XL and a size chart on the American Apparel website makes online ordering super easy. Plus, there’s free shipping over $80 so throw on a nail polish or scarf to your $74.00 pants order and they’re as good as at your door!

P.S. You can sometimes grab discounts from being on their mailing list and every so often a great deal pops up on GROUPON!

-By guest blogger Kate Ferguson

Mommy Style

There’s no denying fall now, and the chunky sweater is back and ready for it. Cozy time! This year the sweater is staying fresh with back cutouts and unique detailing on looser knits that are great for layering over tees and under jackets, which is key for any outing. The last thing you need is to be out with the kids and not have an easy way to transition between weather changes or activity level! Throw on a basic tee for the first layer and you’re good to go. 

Some stitch details on a panel of a sweater will keep it fashionable while remaining functional, like this Laguna Coast V-Neck Pullover Knit from Free People. No loose ties to get in the way or excess bagginess, and yet nothing boring about it. It comes in three earthy colors that would be perfect with leggings or denim, and can easily be dressed up thrown over a black dress with boots.

-By guest blogger Kate Ferguson