I’ve shared a little bit about my journey when it comes to losing my baby weight, and while I’m actively parenting every day, exercising about 5 days a week, and watching what I eat [ok, except for pizza night and a glass or two of wine at night], I came to the realization that about a quarter to half of my wardrobe doesn’t fit. Probably just shrank, right?! Ha! Wishful thinking. Bodies change after having babies. Heck, bodies change as we age! And because I felt like a clean sweep of my style would do me a little good, I took the plunged and cleaned out my closet. And guess what? It felt damn good! Good not only for the people who will benefit from my donation, but good for my soul. And here’s why:
My closet was FILLED with clothes, yet I couldn’t find anything to wear. I would stand at my closet door and pretty much grabbed the same pair of yoga pants, tank top, and sweatshirt to wear every day. When I finally had a night out with a girlfriend, I sat at the opening of that same closet with tears in my eyes thinking, “I can’t show up in yoga pants!!” I did find a top to wear and a pair of black leggings, but it was a realization to me that I needed to clean out the pre-baby closet and buy a few staples that I feel good in!
I’ve essentially been wearing maternity clothes for the past 4 years and it’s about time I revamp my wardrobe. Yep, I LOVE me a pair of maternity leggings, tanks, and tunic tops. But guess what? It looks a little silly on when you aren’t pregnant! Styles change, and honestly, I’m not hip with the times in the fashion category. So I think it’s time I take some time and shop for some new staples! And you know what? If I don’t like what’s “in” right now, you better believe I’ve saved a few of my maternity outfits to get me through winter! Just kidding Mom…. [I know she’s reading this and suggested we go shopping].
My favorite tanks are from Old Navy. I also really liked wearing the Jessica Simpson maternity t-shirts and tops I found at Macy’s. As far as leggings go, I’m a fan of Bump Start, which I’ve found on Amazon and at Destination Maternity [they might be sold out because I couldn’t find any to link to online].
My body has changed, and so has my style. 3 babies in 3 years [HECK one baby in one year] and my hips are a little wider. My chest is a little ummm, ehhh, whatever you want to call it. Just different! And you know what? The clothes I found in my closet that I had worn 5 years ago not only doesn’t fit, it doesn’t look right. Let’s just say a little hot pink dress with ruffles and lace that I wore on our honeymoon isn’t exactly something I want to wear tomorrow. Or next year! Unless we go back to the Florida Keys… [hint to Ted, if he’s reading this].
I want MORE of what I wear all the time. Ok. So I need a few dressy pieces for church, the holidays, occasional date nights, weddings, conferences I’ll actually attend in 2 years, etc. But you know what I want more of? Non-maternity yoga pants, comfy t-shirts and tops, and oh yes, sweatshirts. As I mentioned before, I’m a creature of style habit and feel good about my body when I’m comfy, and wearing casual comfy clothes. I’ve even found a little trick to dress them up: a little mascara, hair that’s blown out, and some lipstick.
And just in case you are in need of making your yoga pants look a little sassy… I’ve got you covered:
My favorite blow dryer
My favorite mascara
My favorite athletic wear [currently] is Zella from Nordstrom and of course, North Face fleeces and pullovers.
Oh and I just bought these every day comfortable shoes that I love because they are quick to get off and on and perfect for a brisk fall day!
Want to know what else felt really good about cleaning out my closet? I ditched all of my jeans. I HATE jeans. My 10-year-old self never liked them either. Why own a piece of clothing you think you should wear and like?!
Let me leave you with this: A wise woman [my mother] once told me if you haven’t worn something in over a year, then it’s time to pitch or donate it. Makes sense, right?!
Anyone want to go shopping??!
