Whether you’re a new mom, an experienced mom, or not a mom at all; it’s easy to get into a fashion rut. If you’re a mother, you know it’s even more difficult to juggle children, a career, and a social life; while still giving yourself that all important “me” time. Even a career alone can infringe on the “life” portion of the “work/life balance” equation; not leaving much time to address things, like your own personal style. One day it seems easy to keep up with the latest fashion trends; then suddenly you realize your wardrobe has become tired and outdated. Here’s how to avoid the top 5 fashion pitfalls:
1. Not keeping up with trends – As we age, we tend to get stuck in a time warp. I still favor the music I listened to in high school and college, especially when all those songs are at my fingertips in an iPod. But if I don’t keep up with the latest music, I’m going to be like my parents who think music from the early 60’s is still “hip.” Same with your wardrobe. You don’t have to revamp your entire closet; but adding the latest jacket, denim style, or accessories keeps your look fresh without breaking the bank.
2. Wearing only trendy clothing – On the other side of the spectrum, wearing the latest trend also means it has to work with your lifestyle and who you are. Not every trendy look meshes with your personality (Not everyone likes or can pull off the Bohemian look. Flats may be in but if you hate flats, why wear them?). So be true to yourself and wear what makes you comfortable.
3. Routinely wearing the same outfits – This has happened to me before. I’ll buy a cute top, and then suddenly find myself wearing it all the time because it’s comfortable or matches everything. Showing up in the same outfit frequently doesn’t benefit you though. Sure, maybe you’ll spend a few minutes less trying to put together an outfit, but it makes you less receptive to trying out new looks. Plus, where’s the fun in dressing the same every day?
4. Not dressing for your body type – I don’t care how trendy an item of clothing is, if it isn’t flattering on you, please do not wear it. One notable example of this pitfall is wearing ultra-low rise jeans with a fitted or cropped top, and not having the right figure to pull this look off.
5. Not investing in good quality, timeless clothing – Every girl should own some quality, timeless basics that will last for years to come. Black trouser or boot cut pants, a white button down top, a cardigan sweater in a basic color are just some examples. A timeless piece can be integrated with the latest trends and accessorized in various ways to create several looks.
I hope these tips will help you avoid any fashion pitfalls, keep your wardrobe looking fresh, and you looking your best.
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This post was written for the CRAVE company by Nancy Cooper, the creator/editor-in-chief of Violet Revolution, a website bringing style and shopping advice to Chicago women and beyond. The site features weekly articles on what to wear, lookbooks of outfits, answers to fashion questions readers submit; as well as coverage of local boutiques, fashion shows and events, plus general fashion news. Check out Nancy’s website here.
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September 26th, 2010 at 12:28 pm
Loved the advice thanks. I’ll try to avoid the low rise jeams and crop top mistake I’ve been making. So embarassed, literally.
September 28th, 2010 at 7:18 am
Great advice! wonderful article!