Sin-Sational Style: Some Traditional Taboos To Avoid

Save to notebook Email article Print article More articles

By Mia Bolaris-Forget

It happens to the best of us. Even the most fashion savvy femmes can falter in their fashion-appeal when life and motherhood take the front seat to our daily routine. Let’s face it, it’s just as easy to run out of the house in our comfort clothes as it is to try to pull ourselves together, only to have our toddler or child, slowly but surely unravel our raving look.

And, according to mom’s and experts alike what that translates into for many moms a diminished sense of style that starts out as practical for “parenting” (around the house) and ends up by actually heading out in public, even to the office in similar, stretch but comfortable attire, that most say should quickly be retired.

Here is a look at six common fashion faux pas that most moms make and how to avoid them.

1. Making the backpack part of your signature style: Sure moms need to tote around lots of baby belongings and the knapsack is both comfortable and convenient. But, according to experts, mod moms shouldn’t look like their trekking through Europe. On the other hand a dashing diaper bag can be the stylish solution you’re looking for. Not only does it help you keep your hands free and offers a place for all your and baby’s necessities but many come in lots of stain-resistant fabrics and patterns for red-hot moms.

2. Pant Peeves: It’s a “horrible” “housewives” habit, to run about in comfort clothes, especially stretchy slacks that are often stretched out, faded, creased, perhaps even stained and that are often “too short”, frayed, or “too tight”, and often “out of style”.

Experts suggest that there’s no reason you can’t be comfortable and chic as well. And, a look experts' love, especially for moms in the workforce is denim slacks and trousers. Not only are they flattering for most figures, but are easy to wash and upkeep and can look great with anything from a tee to a business blouse and blazer or an after-hours hoodie. Pair them with some professional pumps or loafers for the office or some slip on sneakers or sandals after hours. Just remember, they may be “too” casual for a classically corporate office and environment.

3. Un-tidy whities: You know what we’re talking about; that pair of sneakers with the Velcro that you bought back in the 90s and have worn in (to your comfort level) and continue to wear out (of the home) ever since.

According to experts these outdated comfort shoes scream “I don’t care anymore” just as loud as elastic waist pants and mom jeans. Consider replacing them with some terrifically trendy footwear such as Vintage-style runners that are likely to never go out of style.

4. Jeaneology: PLEASE discard of those high-waisted, acid-washed, tapered leg jeans that are often parodied as the ultimate in “I don’t care” looks. Instead, opt for jeans with a straight or slightly flared boot-leg cut that tend to be classic and always in good taste and style. Also, look for a just beneath your waistband pair that also don’t ride too low. Remember, you’re likely going to need to do a lot of bending and squatting and you don’t want to let it all hang out. By the way, experts suggest avoiding, unless you’ve worked off the baby weight, stylish skinny pants that may or may not be in style a year from now.

5. Big and not so beautiful clothes: Wearing oversized clothes like your husband’s sweats or sweaters is anything but contemporary, classic, or chic. Instead consider splurging on some “comfort (athletic) clothes” that suit your (new) figure and your (new) lifestyle. And, while prints and patters can be charming, save the silly and over the top logos for kids.

6. Pony Up: This fashion faux pas of pulling hair back into a stringy, ponytail can go from cute to catastrophic if your hair doesn’t look healthy and shinny.

Experts suggest paying a visit to a qualified stylist that you like and trust and getting a “cut” that’s good for your and your new duties and daily routing. And, make sure it’s relatively maintenance-free. Lifeless hair may require some highlights to add depth and you should also consider a deep-conditioning treatment afterward. Keep hair healthy by washing it every other day rather than daily, and try to always use conditioner. By the way, refrain from damaging hair by brushing it while it’s still wet or damp. And, don’t forget to consult your stylist about which styling methods and products are best for you.