You're not getting dressed up for a day at the office, but you still have a full day of chasing kids and working from home. So what do you wear as a stay-at-home mom? What you need is a mom uniform -- a go-to set of wardrobe items that showcase your personality, make you feel your best, and inspire a day of productivity.
Why You Need a Mom Uniform
We're just going to come right out and say it -- this is something you can do just for you as a mom. Your comfy mom clothes should be comfy, yes. But they should also make you feel amazing all through the day.
Stepping into a mom uniform helps you shift into productive mode and feel prepared to tackle all the to-dos -- and all the kids -- on your list. Whether you rock the full-time mom gig or work from home while juggling parenting duties, a structured and comfortable outfit sets the tone for your day.
Influencer and mom, Angela Braniff, explains why she embraced the mom uniform and how you can build your own go-to uniform on her popular YouTube channel.
Ideas to Build Your Go-To Mom Outfits
A mom uniform doesn't need to be complicated or fancy. In fact, part of the point of the mom uniform is to provide easy-to-wear outfits that take all the guesswork out of getting ready for a day spent at home. Stick to what makes you feel beautiful, works with the pace of your life, and is easy to assemble at the start of your day.
If you find something specific you really like (like an amazing fitted tank that's just right alone or perfect for layering) stock up on multiples or in several colors so you have some great go-to items even when your laundry schedule gets a little off.
Choose Jeans & Tee Combos for Classic Styles
Like we said, mom uniforms don't need to have all the trendy bells and whistles. They can be simple and classy. Jeans and tees can look effortless and still feel pretty comfy throughout the day.
The key here is to find jeans that you actually like wearing. You only need a few pairs to rotate throughout the week. Maybe try one light wash and one dark wash option or include a neutral like black or white denim in your lineup.
Once you've invested in a reliable pair of jeans, all you have to do is choose a top each day. For a full week of outfits, you just need five tees. Reach for the colors you love most, the prints that inspire you, and the styles that best fit your personality. Graphic tees, long sleeve tees, collared shirts, and knit tops are all stylish options.
We love the way jeans and a tee can be easily upgraded to a an outfit you can wear on a date night. Charlotte Betts is giving us all the inspiration with this simple blazer outfit.
With semi-structured mom uniforms you can skip the panic that sets in when you have an unexpected virtual meeting for work. You already look put-together and professional!
Try Athletic Wear for Comfy & Practical Looks
Maybe you love to add a workout to your day or maybe you just know that chasing a toddler is easier in stretchy pants. Either way, the rise of athleisure wear over the past few years has made this mom uniform option a trendy choice.
Leggings, athletic shorts, and tennis skorts help you stay on the move comfortably. You can pair them with snug athletic tops, cozy pullovers, or breathable tanks. A pair of biker shorts with an oversized tee is just as popular in street style these days as it is for comfort-seeking moms. You'll fit right in with the latest trends and still be dressed for school pickup.
Look for Dresses With Effortless Style
Let's be honest, dresses are the best way to skip pants and still look put together. If you feel the most like yourself in a flowy dress, then embrace it! You can wear dresses as a stay at home or work from home mom. The trick is to find the length, cut, and style that suits your aesthetic and lifestyle.
Flowy summer dresses might be your go-to and they look trendy with a pair of sneakers when you're running errands. If you prefer structured styles, you might try a shirtdress or a shift. Go maxi or go mini -- either way, you'll look like you put a ton of effort into your outfit without really trying.
New mom, Tara Sun Snyder, gives us the sweetest style inspo with her lovely dresses.
Layered outfits can be lifesavers for busy moms. Having lightweight sweaters, button-up tops, and even zip-up casual hoodies make it easy to stay comfortable in any situation. Plus, whether you add a casual jacket to your dress or pair a sweatshirt with your jumpsuit, layering pieces can instantly change up the look of your entire outfit.
Wear Matching Sets & Jumpsuits for Ultra-Easy Outfits
Can we have a moment to appreciate the ongoing trend of matching lounge and formal sets? Plus the jumpsuits that have been trending for the past few years. These have changed the comfy mom outfit game!
Matching sets and jumpsuits are similar in that they require absolutely no thought whatsoever when it comes to making sure your outfit pieces match. You can just grab and go with these items. If you need quick and comfortable outfits for your day at home with the kids or a busy day of running errands, these pieces look trendy and maintain practicality.
We're living for the mom influencers who share effortless and comfy matching sets, like Rachel Timmerman.
No outfit is complete without shoes. Try cute sneakers, simple sandals, and stylish slides to keep your look casual and comfy.
Easily Elevate Your Mom Look
We've given you the basics for a mom uniform -- and basics are exactly what you want for an easy outfit assembly. But, there are tons of ways you can elevate those basics. Make these simple additions or swaps for play dates, doctor appointments, or days you just need an extra boost of confidence.
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Swap a basic t-shirt for a button down top or trendy sweater.
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Linen trousers are a breezy alternative to jeans and leggings with just as much -- if not more -- comfort.
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Trading casual distressed jeans for structured, non-distressed jeans gives you an instant style boost.
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Trendy joggers are as cozy as sweats but still look stylish for a trip to the store.
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Cardigans, denim jackets, and dusters elevate basic outfit elements.
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One or two dainty jewelry pieces bring a touch of subtle elegance.
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You can use hats -- think baseball caps and sun hats -- to add extra flair to your fit and help you push hair washing day back an extra 24 hours.
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A quick styling of your hair and a five-minute face of makeup give you that put-together feeling you're aiming for.
You don't have to get a whole new wardrobe to elevate your look, but getting a few new pieces throughout the year can help. When the kids go back to school or the seasons change, get yourself something new too. It will give you some new ways to change up your look with blowing your budget.
Make Your Mom Style Your Own
There are going to be days when you just swap pajamas for more pajamas and the sweatpants call your name. We all have days like that. But on the days you want to show up for yourself -- and show off a little too -- a trusty mom uniform is helpful. Remember, you deserve to feel beautiful in whatever way feels most comfortable to you.
