A Theory and Some Essentials — by Guest Mom Joslyn Taylor
I have this theory, and I’ll be the first to admit it’s not based on any sort of empirical scientific evidence, but it was first formed on a handful of my high school girlfriends and is further proved out every time I’m shopping and see a mother/daughter duo. Here goes…
Lacking a relatively stylish mother to emulate, I think our daughters risk resorting to the media as they seek out a style role model. And let’s face it, while things are getting a little better in that regard (in all my informal polls of teenage girls, Rachel Bilson seems to consistently outscore Paris Hilton in the style department); the stripper aesthetic is still an ever-present “look”.
I’m definitely not suggesting that we become style-obsessed. In fact, I think that backfires as well, encouraging a materialistic little army of trend bots who value looks above all else. But, looking modern, slapping on some lip gloss, a dress or a decent pair of jeans (pleats and plumber’s crack are equally offensive) and giving our daughters a touchstone for what looks good (and our sons a touchstone for the type of girls they want to hang out with) goes a long way.
Here are a few staples that have pulled me out of a rut every time.
Jeans That Fit
Reasoning that the price per wear ends up pretty low, jeans are one of the items I’ll consider splurging on. That said, I have equal affection for my cheapo Flirt jeans from Old Navy (above) and my pair from Paige Premium Denim.
A Great Dress or Two
My love for a good dress really has no parallel. I think it’s one of the few clothing items that can create an aura of pulled-togetherness with almost no effort. I typically go for a simple, solid dress that’s as appropriate for work as for a parent teacher conference or date night. J. Crew and Anthropologie consistently turn out excellent dresses, but there’s truly no shortage of great affordable ones out there. Currently I’m smitten with this frock from Top Shop.
A Smart Jacket
Shrug one on and you instantly elevate even the most basic jeans and t shirt. This fall has produced lots of interesting jackets with unusual proportions and fun sleeves, so I would probably opt for a classic standby and a more fun version. I’ve been coveting this one from Forever 21, and the price will make it slightly less traumatic when it gets totally “gunked up”, as it inevitably will.
A Multi-use Carryall
While they’ve gotten infinitely cuter, I’m still not a big fan of traditional diaper bags. With both of my daughters, I managed to find a tote that easily morphed into a diaper bag with the addition of a few large Ziplocs. This approach doesn’t work for everyone, but somehow I feel a little more like myself, and a little less like I’m schlepping around the entire world (even if I am), when I’m carrying a streamlined bag. My current favorite is from Alexis Hudson. The sides have zippers that allow you to make it really flat for when you’re just toting the essentials or HUGE for when you’ve jammed in a few diapers, some wipes, a toy or two, goldfish, etc… It also converts into a messenger-style bag with a nice long strap. Strangers have literally stopped me on the street to gush over it.
Bracelets via J. Crew
Necklace via Banana Republic
A Go-To Piece of Jewelry
I love the idea of wearing a signature piece of jewelry every day, especially if it’s a hand me down or a vintage locket with pictures of your kiddos. An interesting piece is one of the best ways to add character to a simple outfit. Fortunately, if you don’t have a generous grandmother bestowing her cast-off jewels to you, there’s no shortage of lovely, affordable pieces available. But if you’re going to splurge a bit, I love the gorgeous, handcrafted pieces from Amy Nordstrom.
Lacking a relatively stylish mother to emulate, I think our daughters risk resorting to the media as they seek out a style role model. And let’s face it, while things are getting a little better in that regard (in all my informal polls of teenage girls, Rachel Bilson seems to consistently outscore Paris Hilton in the style department); the stripper aesthetic is still an ever-present “look”.
I’m definitely not suggesting that we become style-obsessed. In fact, I think that backfires as well, encouraging a materialistic little army of trend bots who value looks above all else. But, looking modern, slapping on some lip gloss, a dress or a decent pair of jeans (pleats and plumber’s crack are equally offensive) and giving our daughters a touchstone for what looks good (and our sons a touchstone for the type of girls they want to hang out with) goes a long way.
Here are a few staples that have pulled me out of a rut every time.
Reasoning that the price per wear ends up pretty low, jeans are one of the items I’ll consider splurging on. That said, I have equal affection for my cheapo Flirt jeans from Old Navy (above) and my pair from Paige Premium Denim.
My love for a good dress really has no parallel. I think it’s one of the few clothing items that can create an aura of pulled-togetherness with almost no effort. I typically go for a simple, solid dress that’s as appropriate for work as for a parent teacher conference or date night. J. Crew and Anthropologie consistently turn out excellent dresses, but there’s truly no shortage of great affordable ones out there. Currently I’m smitten with this frock from Top Shop.
Shrug one on and you instantly elevate even the most basic jeans and t shirt. This fall has produced lots of interesting jackets with unusual proportions and fun sleeves, so I would probably opt for a classic standby and a more fun version. I’ve been coveting this one from Forever 21, and the price will make it slightly less traumatic when it gets totally “gunked up”, as it inevitably will.
While they’ve gotten infinitely cuter, I’m still not a big fan of traditional diaper bags. With both of my daughters, I managed to find a tote that easily morphed into a diaper bag with the addition of a few large Ziplocs. This approach doesn’t work for everyone, but somehow I feel a little more like myself, and a little less like I’m schlepping around the entire world (even if I am), when I’m carrying a streamlined bag. My current favorite is from Alexis Hudson. The sides have zippers that allow you to make it really flat for when you’re just toting the essentials or HUGE for when you’ve jammed in a few diapers, some wipes, a toy or two, goldfish, etc… It also converts into a messenger-style bag with a nice long strap. Strangers have literally stopped me on the street to gush over it.
Bracelets via J. Crew
A Go-To Piece of Jewelry
I love the idea of wearing a signature piece of jewelry every day, especially if it’s a hand me down or a vintage locket with pictures of your kiddos. An interesting piece is one of the best ways to add character to a simple outfit. Fortunately, if you don’t have a generous grandmother bestowing her cast-off jewels to you, there’s no shortage of lovely, affordable pieces available. But if you’re going to splurge a bit, I love the gorgeous, handcrafted pieces from Amy Nordstrom.
posted by Gabrielle of Design Mom at Monday, November 05, 2007
9 Comments:
great post, good points about being a good role model for our kids. i never thought of it that way.
I love the dresses/ skirts at jcrew as well, they tend to bring in trends but in a subtle way that makes it more on the timeless side so it's worth the cost.
This is a great list of mom basics. Thanks Joslyn.
Liz: I’ve been on a bit of a J Crew kick lately...the prices are a little high, but i wear my stuff from them for years so I agree...definitely worth it.
I always find things I like at the cheaper chain stores, but honestly they end up being "disposable clothes", which makes me feel worse than spending the money in the first place!
Awesome reminder. I think you hit the nail on the head with your theory! Thanks so much for all the links too.
Great, great list of basics.
As the mother of six daughters I've learned that paying extra money for well-made clothes that lasts through four children rather than 4 washes is so worth it. It's also worth it for me to have well made clothes for me that can be washed over and over again because of all the spills from my baby.
As a friend of Joslyn's, let me be the first to tell you that she looks great in anything she puts on! She has the innate ability to match just the right piece of jewelry with the outfit she is wearing! Thanks Joslyn for the pointers! Looking forward to futher posts!
Great point Gabby. I need to try to stop going the shorts and t-shirt route and give my three sons a touchstone of style as well. As it stands they consider me a "Rub the jade Buddha's belly" type of touchstone. : )
I am a new mom to a boy, this couldn't have come at a better time as I'm trying to streamline my wardrobe but also maintain some semblance of style. Your recommendation of the Old Navy Flirt jeans sent me to the store to try them on. These are perfect for me! As a mom there is a lot of bending over, and most of my pre-baby jeans just were not cutting it in that department if you get my drift! I love how these have a higher waist but aren't mom jeans. I love the $25 price tag -- I don't feel bad when my son spits up on them. Thanks for this!
Robin: excellent...i'm so glad the jeans worked! man it's hard to find good post-baby jeans.
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