Women are often their own worst enemies. After all, we spend so much time taking care of our husbands, our children, our jobs, our homes -- and even our pets -- that there is little, if any, time left to take care of ourselves. And style? What's that? Who has the time or energy to think about fashion or go shopping for clothing? Besides, style is something for people with major money, right?
WRONG.
Style, in fact, has very little to do with money. It's about making a conscious decision to present yourself to the world in a particular manner.
Take a moment to think about what style you are you presenting to the world right now. Does your personal style say that you live a manic lifestyle, drive a minivan and that your kids rule your life? Or does it show a little personality? A little glimpse into the woman within?
In honor of Mother's Day we've reached out to moms around the country and gotten their feedback on the most significant mistakes that mother's make when it comes to personal style.
- Mom Hair/No Makeup. It is oh-so-easy to fall into this trap. After all, who has time to get all dolled up when you have children to corral? (Especially when it is unbelievably easy to throw your hair in a bun or a ponytail and bolt out the door!) Give yourself a couple of extra minutes in the morning to fuss with the hair and put on a little powder, blush, or lipstick. You'll feel better and radiate confidence.
- Sporting the T-shirt and sweat pants uniform. Don't do it! If there is one look that screams "I just gave up" it is consistently appearing in public sporting sweats and a big boxy T-shirt. Congratulations, you've just become your mother. There are times when sweats are appropriate, however it shouldn't be your mommy uniform. What you wear sends an unspoken message. It says that you take the time to treat yourself well and that others should too.
- Opting for cheap and comfortable. I know that you want to be comfortable, believe me, so do I. But elastic waist band pants from Wal-Mart are never the answer. Dressing in clothing that is too large and/or continuing to wear your maternity clothing after the baby is already walking only serves to make you look larger and gives off a sloppy impression. It's not attractive. And while we are on the subject, sneakers and Crocs do not, in fact, go with everything. Good shoes can be comfortable and make the outfit.
- Dressing too young or in the wrong size. Come to terms with the fact that you are not 19 anymore. Dressing "trendy" is fine but wearing your daughter's skin tight skirts to the office are not. Unless you have attained a Demi Moore-esque killer body then you might want to use a little discretion with regards to figure hugging ensembles. Find clothing that fits you well or hire a tailor. Three things to remember: Appropriate is best. Muffin tops are bad. Spanx are your friend.
- Mom Jeans. Do I even need to mention this? So much has been written on the subject that I wince when viewing offenders in public. Please find jeans that fit you correctly. I can't stress this enough. It will take years off of your look!
In short, take care of YOU. A few extra moments each day can make a world of difference in how you look and how you feel about yourself. You're worth it! ?
