I’ll be the first to admit that I very easily slipped into mindless casual dressing once I was on maternity leave. In my defence, I started my leave when I was 38 weeks pregnant and the size of a house, so sack dresses were the only thing that fit me but once baby left the building, I pretty much gave up on being any form of stylish. You know the drill – tracksuits, oversized (and pilled) varsity hoodies, activewear (with no intention of exercising).
It is so easy to get into a funk when you’re at home for extended periods but having now had two stints of maternity leave, I know firsthand how looking a little polished can really lift your spirits on what can be a monotonous day.
Put in a little effort
It doesn’t matter if you’re just dropping the kids off at school or making a quick run to the shops, if you’re in public you should be thoughtfully dressed. Even if you spend the majority of time at home (ahem I’m speaking to you stay at home parents and freelancers), you should still put a bit of effort into your outfit.
Besides – putting together a casual outfit isn’t really that much harder than pulling on your trackie dacks and a hoodie – but you’ll feel a million times better.
Add some structure
I like to include at least one structured piece – like a pair of jeans or a button up shirt – I find it makes me look more polished. My goal is to still look comfortable and cool, even if I just rolled out of bed!
I make the effort to get out of the house daily with my youngest, usually just a walk to the shops to grab a few groceries or to pick up our older boys from school and daycare.
Take this outfit I’m wearing here – a pair of jeans and a simple knit – which is how I’ve typically pitched my looks whilst being on maternity leave. To spruce up my outfit, I’ve accessorised with a pair of leather boots that are flat and comfortable for our daily walks. These particular boots are made in a variety of calf sizes, from narrow to wide. I’m wearing the Kestrel style in cigar brown leather, which is cut lower on the leg (so perfectly suited to the vertically challenged like yours truly).
Shop my outfit
Knit jumper (similar here)
Jeans (here | similar here, here and here)
Boots (here)
Baby carrier (here)
Baby (not for sale ;))
Thank you to Duoboots who kindly gifted me these boots.
