How do I look like a yummy mummy rather than a frumpy mummy? Help!

[TheSmallestOneWasMadeline]

I cringed as I was writing that title but I need HELP! Turned up for a viewing of DD's new nursery school this week and was left feeling like a sack of spuds compared to the other Mums dropping their kids off.

I think 2.5 years of either being in lockdown or at home on maternity leave have completely ridded me of any fashion sense that I once had (which wasn't a lot in all honesty). I work from home a lot now so instead of my nice workwear I'm just in leggings and cheap tops/cardigans most of the time but I'd quite like to put together a new wardrobe of essentials that work for my new life I.e. nursery runs/playgroups/coffee with friends rather than my old blend of very formal for work and glam for going out out.

Could someone suggest some shops/items I should be looking at to achieve that nice, put together but casual mum look please? I'm honestly common as muck but the nursery is in quite a 'posh' area so you all must know the look I'm after 😀

Thanks!!

Oh and simple gold hoops and a gold pendant necklace are also part of my more 'put together' uniform!

And where did you get your jacket from?

That’s very blanket advice.

I’ve tried all sorts of other jeans and they look a bit meh and the fact of the matter remains that I look shit hot in skinnies. They just suit my figure so much more.

The only problem is the shoes. What to wear with them??!

I second pp advice of Vinted too! You can genuinely do a massive overhaul and get loads of good stuff relatively cheaply! Hard as you can’t try on first but I’ve got some amazing stuff including ugg boots for £15, whistles coat for £12 and loads of others!

I'm honestly common as muck but the nursery is in quite a 'posh' area so you all must know the look I'm after

Judging by how often this is said on MN, I just presume everyone is a teeny bit less affluent than they come over. There is definitely a desperation to fit in with more affluent people, it isn't anything new, but I think MN pools 'em all together in one place....
If one has to ask how to fit in, the one simply doesn't

However:
1/ Confidence, how you hold yourself, how comfortable you are in your posture and in conversation.
2/ Unless you are in a thick as mince tory area, then leisurewear and a nod to progressive values will assist you. Think Arc'teryx, trainers, a devil may care approach, but absolutely DON'T purchase Schoffel, Dubarry or F&F (not tesco). Avoid anything that imitates the 'country set' (it's stiff and a bit cringe now) and go for a softer bohemian vibe. You're projecting an obsession with yoga, mindful consumption and environmental awareness.
3/ The less you care to imitate others, the more attractive you will actually be.

Most said tongue in cheek:)

Thinking about it, you can dress anyway you like, but the minute you open your mouth it will be quite clear whether you're posh or not ....... (also said slightly tongue in cheek)!

This is what it'll be. If your hair is done well and if you're skin is looking good, you will look more pristine even if the clothes are baggy or nothing special. Ironed clothes help as well to give that extra crisp effect....but seriously, just wear what makes you feel good, what you'll be happy to see when you look in the mirror.

So... my Mom style jeans from Zara have turned up and I LOVE them. Thank you to the posters who suggested them, I was a bit sceptical when they turned up as they looked massive but they really suit me (according to my husband anyway!).

I'm wearing them today with a plain black top tucked in and my hair in a messy bun that took absolutely ages to look effortlessly messy wtf and feel somehow magically a bit more put together! I also put in some gold drop earrings that DH bought me that I usually wear if we are going out. But we dont go out that often and they've helped with the look as well.

Of course, it also helps that its Sunday and so DH was entertaining our toddler while I faffed around with my hair and clothes 🤣 Tomorrow when it's back to work will be a different story I'm sure!!

I have a relative who is a sham to 4 children. She would not have a lot of money to spend on clothes but likes to look well on the school run, going to school events or on social occasions. She is about 5foot 3 and 12-14 top and a 14 bottom.

She does not wear leggings instead she wears well cut jeans or trousers.
She has a few nice independent ladies clothes shop near her and before their sales she has a look to see what they have. On the 1st day of their sales she will buy things then.
She looks for items that are well cut, suit her shape and are not just in that fashion season must have like very bright colours or mad patterns.

She looks for good quality plain items or things without mad patterns that she can mix and match with things she already has. She buys expensive dressy dress that are well reduced in in sales so if she has an occasion she has something to wear.

Also go to charity shops in more expensive areas as they can often have expensive/classy/good quality stuff at good value. Look out for a classic shape coat in black or navy which you can dress up with a nice scarf.
Have a look in Tesco ect for clothes because sometimes they can have nice things that are not expensive. Tesco can have nice long cardigans and dresses. Marks and Spencer have long sleeve cotton tops in plain colours that wash without going out of shape and they are good for layering.

If your not happy with your hair ask other woman whose hair styles you like who does their hair. It amazing the difference a good hair cut can make because you hair just sits better and you don't need to spend ages drying or styling it. Get your hair done every few weeks and use colour if your hair is going grey.

OP, it sounds like today has been successful - well done! Can you link the Zara mom jeans you ordered?

@Coffeepot72 I got these!

www.zara.com/uk/en/comfort-fit-mom-jeans-p09213231.html

😊

She was very clear on what she meant. If you didn’t understand then that’s your issue, but don’t be so aggressive over your own misunderstanding.

The misunderstanding was nearly three months ago, I'm long over it