Yummy Mummy

Seven Style Mistakes Mums Make

Like most mums, my first priority is my children. Mother guilt plays a huge role in my life and trying to balance work and family life is a constant struggle. As a mother to three teenagers and step-mother to three adult children, I’m good at putting myself last. In the past by not taking the time to look after me, I unknowingly made many fashion faux pas including some of the ones listed below. 

Mistake #1 Wearing active wear all day (especially if you never exercise!)

Gym gear has its place in every wardrobe but it should not be made up entirely of active wear. It might be easy and comfortable but it's far from stylish. 

The simple solution is to have a shower and get changed after your morning gym session. The added bonus is you won’t be walking around the rest of the day smelling sweaty. Alternatively if you are due to go to the gym later in the day take your active wear with you and get changed when you arrive. 

Mistake #2 Wearing baggy clothes

Our body changes considerably after pregnancy. Unfortunately we don’t all have personal trainers and dieticians to help us get our pre baby body back within three months. In fact it can take up to two years after the birth for your figure to be somewhat back to normal. Many women end up hiding their body in clothes that are too big and baggy. Some mums continue to wear maternity wear even though their baby is 12 months old. 

Don’t rely on the label to tell you your size, always try things on. What a size 12 is in one store might be a size 14 in another. Well-fitted items are not too tight and not too loose. 

Mistake #3 Wearing a mummy uniform

A mum uniform is white (sometimes black) ¾ pants and a T-shirt. This outfit is worn everyday of the week. Comfort and practicality are key ingredients to every mum’s wardrobe, but this can leave you  looking drab and boring. 

Mix up your outfits by wearing a brightly coloured top or a fun print. Swap out your ¾ pants for fitted jeans or create a feminine look by wearing skirts and dresses. 

Mistake #4 Avoiding accessories 

Many mums avoid jewellery for fear of little exploring hands yanking out dangly earrings or pulling on long necklaces. 

You can still add personality to your wardrobe with a pair of coloured studs or some inexpensive bangles. Instead of a boring nappy bag, opt for a modern oversized tote that will fit yours and your child’s needs. 
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​​Mistake #5 Wearing dated underwear

Are you still wearing maternity bras even though you are no longer breast-feeding? Not updating underwear can lead to ill-fitting clothing. Your underwear is the foundation to your outfit. Wearing the right fit can make a big difference to the outer silhouette of your garments. 

I recommend bras be refitted by an expert every 12 months to ensure correct fit. Buy undies one size bigger than your pant size to avoid creating extra undie-lines. Invest in a body shaper to hide any lumps and bumps. These are particularly great for special events when you want to create a smooth finish to a dress.  

Mistake #6 Wearing worn out footwear

When was the last time you bought a pair of new shoes? Not only does our body change size when we are pregnant, our feet change size too! 

Purchasing new shoes every six months will instantly update your look. Choose comfy stylish options such as low wedges, Converse styles, sandals and ballet flats.

Mistake #7 Forgetting about hair and makeup

Do the words hair and makeup seem like a luxury? After spending 30 minutes dressing children, doing your hair and makeup is probably not high on the priority list.

You don’t have to spend an hour in front of the mirror, your hair and makeup routine should take about 15 minutes max. Wash and blow-dry your hair at night to save you time in the morning. A little bit of makeup goes a long way; start small with a tinted moisturiser, mascara and lip gloss. 

I have found that by taking the time to ensure I look and feel great everyone wins. My clients, my husband and my kids benefit from a happy, confident me. ​