What to wear as young mum

by Anna
(Western Australia)

I've asked this through the questionnaire that I just filled in for you however, I thought it might be a better idea to post this question here.

I am a 23-year-old mum of two. I find it difficult to dress, as I am still young and would love to be able to dress in gorgeous, fashionable clothes however, I feel I can't because of my image as a mother.

One of the biggest problems for me is my budget. My wardrobe is so outdated it's not funny but, I can't afford to go out and replace everything. At the same time, I feel like even if I did have an unlimited budget, after this many years without following fashion, I'd be lost if I went on a shopping spree.

What are some key items, so to say 'must-haves', I should purchase to create a base for style? And what are some small bits and pieces that will make me look my age, feel great and sexy (which my current clothes do not!) and still be comfortable and appropriate when running after a two-year-old in a shopping centre?

Thank you in advance!
Anna

PS: I am attaching a photo to give you an idea of my body. I would appreciate it doesn't get published however, I do understand and consent if it does - I have read the submission guidelines :) Thank you.

Jane's answer... Hi Anna. Thanks for responding to my style survey and for your question. I'm glad you asked it here -- I had no way to reply to individual questions through the survey.

You can, and should, still dress attractively as a young mum! Though you will want to base your main wardrobe selections on practical, hard wearing, easy wash and wear clothes. With careful planning you don't have to spend a fortune. With a few core pieces you can create a seeming large mix and match wardrobe.

My "6 steps to style" (see the right hand column "Start here" information) still apply to you. The trick for you is to master one aspect at a time so you don't become overwhelmed. To get started assess what you already know and which steps you need to learn more about. I have articles on my site that introduce you to each of the steps.

Assess your wardrobe using my wardrobe makeover articles to help you.

Then look at my latest trend watch update to start to understand key fashion trends. Look at pictures of current outfits in 1 or 2 recent style magazines (you might find current style mags at your local library) or online (such as the Trends links on the Westfield website).

Note the looks that appeal to you. Note how these outfits are put together in the pictures. What colors? What accessories?

Think about the activities in your life you need to address most urgently. Do you have one or more skirt, pair of pants or shorts, or a dress that currently works well for you? If so start with these items. Can you make them look anything like the looks you like using items you already have? If not, can you identify an accessory to add to create the look you like? Accessorizing is the cheapest way to update your look.

A great way to build a working wardrobe is to create capsules of mix and match clothing to suit your various lifestyle activities. Read my Wardrobe Basics article here to learn how to do this.

I have deleted your photo, as requested. It showed me you have a great figure and that many styles will suit you.

I hope this helps you get started. It really is worth taking a bit of time to understand the 6 steps to style. The knowledge will be valid throughout your life allowing you to periodically assess where you're currently at and how to make any adjustments.