5 ESSENTIALS FOR THE WORKING MOM’S WARDROBE
Being stylish is simple with the right basics
Going back to work after having had your baby can be a daunting thought, on so many levels. Emotionally, there is a lot to process. Then there are the practical considerations, such as that question: What will I actually wear to the office? You may not have thought about it yet, or you’re freaking out about it already but haven’t had the time or head space to do much about it. Plus your body has changed in so many ways. But don’t worry, help is at hand!
Here are five key basics that you can incorporate into your work wardrobe. Having the basics at your disposal is essential. By mixing and matching them with existing items in your wardrobe, you can create a number of office-ready outfits.
A JACKET
A jacket instantly elevates your look. You can be wearing a casual weekend blouse or basic tee, but throw a jacket on over your outfit and you’re instantly “meeting-ready”.
Get a jacket that you can wear with at least three pairs of pants or skirts. Most people think that a black jacket is a must-have. While this is definitely something to aim to have in your wardrobe, if your budget only allows the purchase of one jacket for now, look at a more versatile colour. Now you’re thinking – what could be more versatile than black, right? Remember that you can’t wear a black jacket with black pants or a black skirt unless they’re all part of the same suit i.e. the fabrics need to be the same and they need to match. So rather get a charcoal grey or an offwhite colour. That way you can wear it with black, navy, grey or even printed pants and skirts. Look for a cut that suits your shape and don’t make the mistake of buying it in a size too big. A bulky jacket loses the chic appeal you’re trying to create by wearing one.
A SMART DRESS
Embrace your femininity but keep it office-friendly. A classic shift style is the perfect choice. If you can’t find one to fit your figure shape, try a wrap dress or a shirt-dress. The main thing you need to consider is the structure of the dress. If the fabric or the style is too flouncy and soft you’ll run the risk of looking too casual. Tip – if you’re still breastfeeding and thus using a breastpump at the office, a button-up shirt-dress style gives you easy access.
Make sure the dress is either on or just above the knees. Unless you know how to rock the on-trend midi style, a dress that comes to your mid-calf can look dowdy. Conversely, if it’s too short you can instantly lose credibility with your colleagues and clients.
A PAIR OF PANTS
The key is finding a style that suits you. Higher-waisted trousers are more flattering and help to flatten a post-preggy belly. Buy the best you can afford. In most cases, the better the fabric, the better the fit. A classic straight leg is a good basic to start with, but you can also experiment with skinny or wide legs. Try to steer away from bootleg work pants, as they can be a little dated.
A GREAT PAIR OF HEELS
You can’t go wrong with a classic pair of court shoes. During pregnancy you tend to wear flats more often than not so it’s great to get back into heels again – it does wonders for the confidence! Just make sure you can walk in them, otherwise your newfound confidence will fly out of the window!
If heels are just not an option for you, look for a pair of pointy ballet flats. The point at the front makes them smarter and more office-appropriate than the classic ballet flat.
ACCESSORIES
If shopping for clothes for your post-baby figure is just a downright chore, focus on getting some statement accessories. Like a jacket, they can instantly take your look up a notch. A basic tee and jacket combination can be smarter with the addition of a string of chunky pearls around your neck. A statement watch or a beautifully crafted laptop bag can also have the same effect.