As a stay at home mum, you’re so focused on making sure everyone else is dressed that you can easily forget to dress yourself. Who’s thrown on the nearest sweatpants and old sneakers to leave the house? It’s not hard to fall into the trap of wearing the same old comfortable clothes every day. We know from experience that after a while you can feel like you’ve lost your identity and it can feel a little sad. But who has the time to search for style when you’ve got so much else going on? Fear no more, mama! Here’s your 2023 essentials list to refresh your SAHM wardrobe so you always feel put together and confident, no matter what kind of morning you’ve had.
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Pram walk and playground leggings
Whether you’re taking your little one out in the pram or simply heading out for some fresh air, you’ll need a go-to outfit – or a few. Keep things simple with a pair of trusty black leggings you can dress up. The absolute top of the range in terms of comfort and style are the Lululemon Align leggings.
For a matching, foolproof, easy to throw on outfit, look no further than H&M‘s set right here. Pair with high ankle socks, white sneakers and you’re ready to go.
Mama 2-Piece Cotton Set Black
If you’re postpartum, we recommend the SRC Health support and recovery leggings. These are designed to be worn as often as possible after birth to aid and assist in your recovery. They are strong on compression but they look great.
SRC Recovery Leggings
Jeans for a change
Remember how you used to wear jeans all the time? Neither do I. But today, swap your leggings for a pair of uber comfy boyfriend jeans, trendy sneakers and a maternity tee that’s designed to hug your curves and watch your confidence skyrocket. Here’s your go-to jeans look:
Sweater on hand to run outside if needed
“This is the BEST sweater I have ever purchased,” says Mel, The Mama Style stylist and mum-of-one. “Firstly, it feels incredible. Secondly, it’s easy – it goes with absolutely everything. And third? It’s amazing quality. Honestly, I can’t say enough about this sweater except you need it.”
The Organic Cotton Ribbed Turtleneck Canvas
The Organic Cotton Ribbed Turtleneck Black
Your fave sneakers
You can’t go wrong with timeless white sneakers that are also comfortable for walking. Especially when your baby needs a few more laps around the block before she’ll sleep. The Veja campos have been redesigned to be extremely comfortable and are timeless in terms of white sneakers for short walks.
“I love these in tan and black for an effortless look that makes every outfit look just that little bit better. They wear in well and last for ages,” says Sarah Hamilton, new mama and stylist.
Campo Sneaker In Extra White & Black Extra White Black
For medium to long walks, choose New Balance. They’re firmly back in style, and everyone is wearing them! The dad sneaker trend is definitely interesting, but we’re not complaining. After all, anything that encourages people to wear comfortable shoes is a good thing. The New Balance 530s and 574s are two of the most popular styles right now. They’re both stylish and comfortable, and they’re perfect for everyday wear. Whether you’re running errands, running around town, or just running late (seriously, anyone who can make it on time with kids deserves a medal), New Balance has you covered.
530 beige with angora and incense
574 core nimbus cloud with white
Running and walking shoes for sweating it all out
ON shoes are super stylish, incredibly high quality and trusted by athletes around the world so you know you’re making a good purchase decision. They’re great for working out or walking it out.
Cloudnova Sneaker In Phantom & White Phantom White
For long walks, you want to wear something designed to look after your feet. We love black ASICS for both running and walking. Pair with black Lululemon leggings and a white tee for effortless style.
ASICS Women’s Gt-2000 11 – Black/Black
That comfy but stunning coat
The camel coat or light colored trench are timeless pieces that will never go out of style. Stylists recommend investing in a high-quality wool coat that you can wear for years to come. These two types of coats can be dressed up or down, and they can instantly elevate any outfit and make you feel amazing. Even when you’re running on no sleep, a wool coat or light colored trench can help you look and feel fabulous.
The gathered drape trench Brown
Dylan coat in camel
A puffer jacket is a must in cooler weather and is super easy to throw on for a sporty look. Everlane does amazing puffer jackets that look stylish and beat the cold. Pair with leggings and running sneakers for a sporty look.
The Renew Long Puffer Kalamata
Invest in a cashmere scarf for cooler days. An instant outfit pick-me-up, cashmere is luxurious, kind on your skin and always looks amazing.
Versatile dress in case it’s hot
From personal experience, a simple flattering dress will see you through just about any situation.
- Feeling bloated and gross but have to head to the office? Put this on with a nice blazer and great shoes.
- Got dinner or a movie and nothing to wear? Pair with strappy sandals and a gold necklace for an instant uplift.
- Heading out for the day? A pair of slides and a crossbody bag is all you need to elevate this.
- Feeling self conscious? Add a light cardigan or denim jacket.
Theo sleeveless midi dress Loden
Light Blue Square Neck Smocked Maternity Midi Dress
For a tighter fit or to show off your bump, you can’t go wrong with bodycon:
Comfy sandals
Birkenstocks are the most comfortable sandals around. You’ll hardly go a day without seeing these on some of the most stylish people, as they are simply timeless in their comfort. Lately we’re seeing a lot of the Boston Clogs around, worn on their own or even with socks, but the Arizona is a timeless choice.
Arizona big buckle sandal in black
Boston soft footbed clog in black
Ginza Leather Platform Flip Flops Sand
Sunglasses
Feel immediately stylish and stay sun smart while hiding any trace of sleepless nights with a pair of classic Ray Bans.
Erika Classic Polished Black
Cat eye glasses are still the rage and can add an edginess to your look.
Mica cat-eye acetate sunglasses Black
Cap
Our fave cap is a simple black baseball cap that goes with anything. It’s your savior on days when dirty hair will have to do.
Relaxed Mini Logo Hat Brown
That bag that never lets you down.
Every mama needs a trusty tote that fits EVERYTHING. For a great quality and relatively more affordable option check out Arket or put in your request for a push present and splurge on a beautiful leather.
Shopper Large Textured-Leather Tote Black
Landscape leather tote Burgundy
Curved Leather Bag Black
Your go-to basics that you simply can’t live without
The foundation of every wardrobe is a selection of versatile basics. The trick to stocking up on basics? High quality. H&M is one of our favorite affordable but impressively high quality brands, while Hatch has a stunning range of basics designed to last from bump to baby and they feel AMAZING.
Mama 2-pack nursing tops Powder beige/white
“I have these ones,” Mel says, “They’re super stretchy and affordable. You can wear them with leggings and a coat on, or jeans and boots and a blazer.”
Rib Turtleneck Top Light Beige
Rib Turtleneck Top Black