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In my former blog life, I used to post semi-regular “What I Wore” style posts. I liked these posts because they encouraged me to shop my closet to find new ways to wear things. They also helped me to get rid of pieces that I didn’t wear often and identify gaps in my wardrobe.
That said, I never would have identified myself as a fashionista. And I definitely don’t identify that way now. I spend most of my days between home, playgrounds, story time, and grocery stores, so I need clothes that are simple, no fuss, but still stylish.
As a stay-at-home mom, it can be tough to find the motivation to get dressed in anything other than athletic shorts some days. (Before you think I’m hating on athletic wear, know that I live in it a good chunk of the time.) But, I’ve found that I often feel better and more productive when I take the time to put on clothes that I feel great in when I start my day.
What Mama Wore – Because Getting Dressed Doesn’t Have to be Hard
I’d like to introduce a new series here on Live Well Play Together called “What Mama Wore”. This idea came to me when I did my first style post here with eShakti. Since then, that little WMW catchphrase has been bouncing around in my head. I want to share some of the outfits that I love with you all in hopes that you’ll find a little inspiration in your own wardrobe.
I also want to encourage you that dressing well doesn’t have to cost a fortune. We like to save money over here (and Hubs says, “amen!”) so a lot of the clothes you’ll see were purchased either second hand or on deep discounts. I’ll try to find similar items online though so you’ll be able to shop the look if you’d like.
[ctt template=”2″ link=”5mbe8″ via=”yes” ]What Mama Wore: Budget Friendly Style Ideas for the Busy Mama[/ctt]
The Outfit
Today’s outfit is one that I have really loved lately. I used to think that wedges were taboo with shorts, but that changed last year for me. I think it’s because I started wearing longer shorts. I’ve got long legs anyway so I usually buy 4-5″ shorts. These tend to be short enough for me, but still modest enough that I don’t feel self-conscious when we go out. Modest is hottest, people.
The longer shorts also allow me to wear wedges confidently with them. I love the way a simple pair of wedges immediately dress up an outfit. Seriously. Try it.
This ruffle tank is new to my closet this year from a local thrift store that works to provide counseling services for families impacted by domestic violence and sexual assault/abuse. (Lots of non-profits have thrift stores to support their programs. This can be a great way to find upscale clothing at bargain prices as well as support some great causes in your community.) It’s originally from LOFT, which is of course one of my favorite brands to wear.
The tank top is polyester and can really be dressed up or down. The simple black and white pattern is classic and not overbearing, which I like. It’s a piece that I’ll get lots of use out of.
Finally, the wedges are Esprit brand via Clothes Mentor (aka my go-to place to shop) that I got last summer. They’ve quickly become favorites in my closet.
This outfit was for a day visiting my parents, but I’ve also worn it out to lunch and dinner with friends. It has quickly found it’s way into my rotation.
I’d love to know your go-to pieces for the summer. Mama or not, tell me what you’re loving these days!
Finally, for more style inspiration, check out Caitlin’s Simple Mom Outfits over on Confessions of a Northern Belle. I love her whole wardrobe, so I’m sure you will, too!
Such an awesome outfit and some great tips. With summer here, it’s definitely worth it.
Thanks; I really appreciate you stopping by!
Ah you look great – really summery! I try and put things together without always buying new stuff. It’s nice to look and feel good too. Thanks for sharing with #bestandworst x
Yes – it is so nice to be able to shop your own closet and feel well put together!
Great casual outfit! I love shopping in thrift stores and have found some amazing bargains in them. Thanks for linking up!
Emma xxx
http://www.style-splash.com
Thanks! I almost always shop second hand when it comes to clothes. I often find great pieces and great prices, which I’m happy about!
I love the top, great picks! #bestandworst
Thanks so much!
I love this outfit. Perfect for the summer. The top is amazing. #bestandworst
Thanks!
Seriously loving this tiered ruffle tank! It looks great with your shorts and wedges. I am a shorty, so I am all about wedges and shorts. Haha. Thanks for linking up with Fabulous Friday! Hope to see you back this week.
Jennie – A Pocketful of Polka Dots
Thanks so much; it is fun to wear and really versatile!
This outfit looks really cute & comfy! Perfect for chasing kids! I just realized I have those shoes too, don’t ask the last time I wore them.
Thanks! I like it. You should break the shoes out again – they are some of my favorites!
You look comfortable, yet put together. This is what I am going for as a work-from-home mom, but I usually look more like an extra from The Walking Dead. As you said, getting dressed does not have to be hard, but I think that I put so much energy getting my toddler dressed that I have nothing left over for myself. It is my new mission, so I will be following your series!
I feel you! It helps me sometimes to think through what I’m wearing the next day. And I do about nothing for makeup for that helps, too!
I love this outfit! Comfy but stylish! I need to work on getting some more simple pieces into my wardrobe (as I have a goal not to repeat an outfit each month).
That’s what I love most about this outfit! It looks nice, but is so comfy and versatile!
Love how you styled this simple + cute outfit! And hooray for going green by buying secondhand! 🙂
Thank you so much! I know – I’ve been seeing so much lately about the huge amounts of waste created by the textile industry, so I feel even more compelled to shop second hand these days!
I’m a huge fan of casual dresses. Can’t wait for the other posts in the series.
Same! I’m hoping to add to the series monthly, so we should have another post in a few weeks!
I love that top, it is super cute. I have two little ones that are very much in that sticky finger phase, so easy wash is essential for me.
Yes – the sticky finger phase! I bet your shirt, or pants, or just you in general is probably the best place for wiping off those hands, too, right? Easy wash is definitely a must!
Love that shirt. The ruffles add a great touch to it!
Thanks! It is fun to wear!
Such a cute outfit! I find so many cute things at the Clothes Mentor and enjoy bargain shopping. With 5 kids, I don’t enjoy spending a ton of money to clothe us all.
I actually just found a loft dress at Good Will and was super excited!
That is great! I try to buy most of my clothes second hand! Same for Little as well! I tend to find really great things in local consignment and thrift stores!
Such a great outfit for running around with kids in the warm weather! I am a huge fan of wedges this season because they elevate my mom style but I can still chase the children! Your wedges are adorable. I need a pair in a neutral/nude tone.
Shelbee
http://www.shelbeeontheedge.com
Yes – literally elevate! 🙂 I was glad to have found these. I can’t find the exact ones online anymore, but I always keep my eyes open for neutral wedges because they are so versatile!
Love this effortless casual look! Thanks for sharing at the Moda Thursday linkup!
Christine
http://www.bonchicstyle.com
Thanks so much!
Great summer look. Thanks for joining the Top of the World Style linkup party.
Thanks so much!
I love this look! It’s so cute but doesn’t hinder you from being able to be active. Plus I can see how the top can be so versatile – always a good piece to have in your closet!
Thanks! It is really fun to wear and I feel like I can run around the playground or go out to lunch, which is really nice!
This is so cute! I need longer shorts. I haven’t worn any of mine in probably two years because they feel so short but I’ve yet to find any I love. Thanks for the recommendation!
It makes a big difference. I got rid of all of my shorter shorts because I never wore them.
That looks so cute! I love your style.
Thank you so much; I appreciate it!
I love your top, looks so flattering! Great summer style.
Thanks so much, Ashley; I really appreciate it!
Modest is hottest – love it! I’ve been living in dresses lately and leggings for work. But structured leggings that have a thicker waistband and overall thicker material.
I don’t remember where I heard it, but I will never forget it! I want to get some leggings like you are describing! I’m also all about comfort!
You’re so right, it’s so much fun to get creative with the clothes you already have! One of my biggest inspiration sites is wornontv.com. Maybe something for you to check out? Warning, it can get addicting 😉
Thanks, Louisa! I might have to check it out!
Love! There is so much to be said about finding combinations of pieces that are versatile and fit into a rotation to take out the decision making of getting dressed.
Also, I never thought about wedges and shorts not going together!
I totally agree! I think it’s because I have longer legs that I didn’t try them before. But I really love them especially with longer shorts!
Love that shirt!
Thanks!
That thrift store sounds amazing! Love a good cause like that. Adorable outfit.
I agree – it’s really great to be able to help a great cause while updating your wardrobe!
Love this outfit! It looks great on you, stylish while remaining practical. I am in process of doing the same with my wardrobe, it’s time to find clothes that flatter and keep up with my 3-year-old adventurer. Looking forward to following this series!
Thanks so much! I am looking forward to the series too! I’m hoping to post in it at least once/month – that feels feasible to me! I appreciate you following along!