Ask Angie: wardrobe staples

chicchic

I am trying to replace an outdated/grown wardrobe and need advice on some basic staple pieces to add to. I am a stay at home mom but I do sometime go out in public and don't want to look like a stay at home mom.

17 years ago

Dressing

6 replies

Latest reply was from jwomack

Angie

(website)

Fashion Stylist

Hi chic chic and welcome!

There are many stylish SAHM's and working mothers on this forum. I am sure they will serve as a helpful inspiration. But a visual of yourself is very helpful. Think you can manage that?

17 years ago

sinead

Active Member

Hi chic chic,

I'll tell you what has helped me in slowly trying to build a wardrobe after years of either neglecting it- or running out desperately, spending money on things I would then never wear.

-Angie's advice on pretty non-t-shirt tops. I discovered I feel so much better about myself in a pretty top or blouse as opposed to a blah t-shirt.
-Great jeans.
-casual shoes that aren't sneakers, but you can still play in. This has been hardest for me. I fell into the easy-on clogs rut, and I'm still weaning myself off of them.
-depending on where you live, a wonderful outerwear piece. I'm in Seattle, and a good all weather coat is a basic. Might as well be one that looks fab.

I would get into trouble when an event would come up and I'd have nothing to wear to it. I'd end up with a panic piece bought the day before, spent more than I should, and it would never get worn again. So, my goal is to have the pieces already there for: date night, day wedding, dressy auction event, etc. Less stress, better style!
Good luck!

17 years ago

Louise

Veteran

Would also add only buy pieces you love. A few pieces you love are better than a wardrobe full of ok stuff x

17 years ago

Dani

Veteran

Hi chic chic. I'm a SAHM and have found that a great pair of jeans (or two), cute shoes/boots, interesting tops for layering, and washable cardigans are a great start for me. I'm also loving dresses but as Angie mentioned in her worst of the past fashion season, there weren't many winter options this past year. I get a lot of wear out of my denim skirt and I will be purchasing another pair of knee-high boots next year for versatility (I own chestnut knee high boots and got a lot of wear out of them this past winter). I am planning to add to my blazers and layering shirts in the next year but I managed fairly well this winter (even if I do say so myself :)).

Also, don't underestimate the effect of a couple of great purses (not necessarily expensive but striking...TJ Maxx is my go to place for those!) and a great winter coat.

You can look under the "What I Wore Today" tab on the forum to get ideas from everyone. I find inspiration from everyone (those who work or are students) and just incorporate them into my style as best suits my lifestyle. Hope that helped!

17 years ago

Angie

(website)

Fashion Stylist

Bless you Sinead. YOU have made my day:

"Angie's advice on pretty non-t-shirt tops. I discovered I feel so much better about myself in a pretty top or blouse as opposed to a blah t-shirt".

I'm cloning you.

17 years ago

jwomack

Active Member

Hi chicchic. I am a SAHM who just recently got into fashion in the last couple of years. I find that my go to items right now are jeans with layering tees/shirts and cardigans and/or sweaters. You need a few pair of jeans with different lengths -- one for flat shoes and another for heels. I have really built up my wardrobe without spending a ton by shopping at stores like Target. I am now the master of taking a little time and scouring clearance racks. (Of course it helps that I have some free days when all the kids are in schools -- this is a lot harder with little ones in tow). I cannot tell you how many great sweaters, jackets and layering shirts I have found for under $10 there.

Also, I have really started to build up my wardrobe with jewelry, belts and purses. Belts can really up the chic factor on an otherwise boring sweater, etc. and same with jewelry and bags. Again, I find great deals at Target and totally agree the TJ Maxx is a great source for purses. I have had a good luck with belts at Kohls. My newest thing is scarves. Keep reading Angie's blog, it will help sooo much. It has really helped changed the way I approach clothing purchases.

17 years ago

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