With the cooler breezes giving a chill at the bus stop this month, fall fashions are on my mind. We are busy moms who need a versatile and functional style. I don’t want to think too hard when picking out what to wear each day. It’s like making dinner, I ask myself, “Do I have to make these decisions every single day?!”
I want to look cute, be comfortable, and have practical footwear. Let’s talk about some mix-and-match style for fall, making life easier and allowing us to head out the door with confidence.
Basic Tops
Some basic tops to keep in your closet this fall include a white blouse with some interesting details, a solid colored lace detail top, and a printed top. Interesting details can include ruffles, a tie, puff sleeves, or something along those lines to elevate a simple top. Solid colors, like navy or chocolate brown, in short sleeves, with a touch of these details, allow your basic tops to feel less basic. I love having one fun, printed top (I have a dog-printed one!). It gives a bit of whimsy and personality while still allowing for mixing and matching.
Classic Blazers
Blazers are a big trend at the moment, and I think rightfully so. I’ve had a black blazer in my closet for years and can toss it over almost anything. Dress, skirt outfit, work pants, jeans, it goes with everything. The trend at the moment is for a boxy fit and using a belt or wrap tie to give the blazer structure when needed. A black blazer is a mix-and-match queen piece.
Denim Jackets
Long live denim jackets! Another item that can be placed on top of anything, but with a less business-like vibe. At one point, I won’t be afraid to admit I had four in my closet. A white one, a cropped one, a “regular” one, and a dark denim one. My cropped one can be seen on this past style post I wrote. Currently, the only denim jacket I wear is my Old Navy one from a couple of years ago, the “regular.” Learn from me, this isn’t an item you need to spend a lot of money on.
Neutral Separates
In addition to the black blazer and white blouse we have already discussed, let’s talk about versatile natural separates. For early autumn and into actual cooler autumn, a natural cardigan is perfect. I have a lightweight gray one I can wear as a layered piece or just over a tank top when I know I want to have on a longer sleeve all day.
Another great neutral separate is a printed skirt. I know that sounds like a conundrum, but I assure you it isn’t. For autumn, a plaid skirt is perfect. Stick with a plaid that includes the colors of your basic tops. A skirt can be dressed up or down, with sneakers, flats, or boots. It’s so versatile! Here is a look at how I’m styling mine on Pinterest. (You can also see my white ruffle top there.)
A wide-leg pant (that’s not a jean) is a great mix-and-match style for fall that will go with any of your basic tops, with your blazer or denim jacket, and can be worn with any of the flats we will discuss next.
Practical Footwear
Ballet flats are the shoe to wear right now! I love the Mary Jane style and have a black pair and a fuzzy brown pair. Either one matches everything I’d wear on a day-to-day basis. Having one with a texture to it gives you a trendy look as well. Shoes are something I do recommend spending the time to find. I need good arch support, and I always make sure my flats have that. There are expensive ones out there with no support, and wallet-friendly ones that are great. Spend the time to find what works for you. Happy feet, happy Mom.
I’ve always been a fan of knee-high boots, and as the weather starts to change, they are the footwear of choice with any skirt or dress. Not as functional and versatile, but a stylish boot will give you an extra pep in your awesome step.
Time-Saving Accessories
I have learned that my bags need to allow me to be hands-free. Crossbody bags, belt bags, and backpacks are my go-tos. I’m fortunate I can wear a hat any day, and they save me from bad hair days! If you cannot wear hats, I suggest a cute hair bun combined with a stylish headband. For jewelry, it’s always good to have one longer necklace that matches with any top you own, as well as a nice pair of medium-sized hoop earrings.
