One of the reasons new pieces have a hard time making the cut is because many just cannot stand up to my list of demands! We all have some basic rules when it comes to jeans, tops, even bras. It has to fit a certain way, accentuate this or keep that from spilling out. Now, I have babies hanging on me and my list has been amended.
My original criteria for clothing was based on my body type. I am medium height, medium build, nothing fancy. I like boot cut jeans, long tops and fun shoes. As of July 20th, the following requirements have been added:
1. No more dry-cleaning. Who has time to create extra errands? Any clothing on a mother of young children will meet the same unfortunate demise: stuffed into the laundry hamper covered in spit-up. If its lucky enough, we miss what was secretly wiped on our shoulder and throw it on again, only to have it pointed out in the middle of a crowded grocery store. Public, don't tell us its there, just ignore it and understand its a hazard of the job.
2. Kid-friendly. After you baby-proof your house, its time to baby-proof your wardrobe. We have all been there. You are talking to a stranger and the little darling you are holding grabs ahold of your top and whamo- you have a Janet Jackson-type wardrobe malfunction on your hands. Usually, one can quickly compensate with the free hand. In my case, with twins, there are no hands left. Its either drop a baby or pretend my bra and all its contents are not joining in on the conversation. If we pretend its not happening then there is certainly no need to take off running!
3. Forgiving. Now, before I elaborate, I must explain something. I have some mom-friends who do NOT need this category. 6 weeks after giving birth, they are ready for bikini season. To those hot-mamas, I salute you (and am oh-so jealous!). To those of us who need a bit more time, we need a wardrobe to match. I need tops that simultaneously give me some shape yet don't cling to every curve. I don't want to look like I am still sporting maternity wear but I need some forgiveness.
4. Adaptable. With multiple children, laundry and cooking, I don't have time for costume changes. I need pieces that can move from daytime errands to dinner with friends, throw on some accessories and be ready for date night with the hubs.
I think that about encompasses it all. I have already been given some great suggestions and am putting together some ideas as I type. Please feel free to comment below and share some secrets you may have for meeting these requirements.
