One of our favorite parts of launching The Local Moms Network has been discovering talented mamas across the country, finding projects that are meaningful to them while raising their families. One of our recent fave finds? Ashley DeJong, the beautiful and real Iowa-based mom behind fashion and lifestyle Lady and Red. We asked Ashley for the mom uniform that lets her run after her 5-year-old daughter Rowan—here’s what she shared.
To be honest, I don’t believe there is a “uniform” for a mom. I say wear whatever you are comfortable in. If you look at my Instagram feed, @ladyandrestyle, you will see that my style varies based on the event. Just because we are moms doesn’t mean we need to dress like we are as lame as our kids think we are! There is definitely a time and place for every outfit, and below I will highlight my favorite pieces that can transition from playground to date night.
I am looking forward to ORANGE being the newest Fall color on trend. I think it pairs well with black or brown and obviously I couldn’t wait to wear it as I already painted my nails orange…ha!
Click the blue links below to take you straight to where you can purchase the item shown. Happy shopping friends. Don’t forget to tag me on Instagram so I can see how you style your outfit based on my inspiration below!! **If you are new to my page, at the end of this post is a little “about me” section!
Closet Staple #1: Cardigan
This covers the booty so you can wear it with leggings or a short dress too! I sized down and if you don’t love brown, it comes in several colors under $20.
Closet staple #2: Graphic Tee
I am wearing a small and would say it runs TTS. The colors go with everything, it is cheeky, and it’s embellished for a little spice. Plus it is only $9. Easy to wear with my favorite $12 joggers found HERE or dress it up with a leather skirt for a night out with the ladies found HERE.
Closet Staple #3: Girlfriend Jeans
Flattering for most body types and forgiving. I typically size down in these so they are less “crotchy” if that makes sense! I also love this PAIR if you want them to be less distressed. Both are affordable, making it an easier purchase if you are unsure you will love this trend. I also love dressing them up with a heel and cami for a date night. Don’t be afraid to step out of your comfort zone. It’s fashion—it’s supposed to be fun!
Closet Staple #4: Hat
Day #5 hair = hat day—ha, at least in my house. But really, they are so chic and an easy way to look dressed up with little effort. I love this one because it comes in several colors, it’s adjustable to fit my noggin, and it holds its shape so well. HERE is another best selling hat for this season too! It comes in black and burgundy.
Closet Staple #5: Belt ( I linked this exact belt…it’s $11)
Do ya see this outfit? The girlfriend jeans, a hat, and a belt. BINGO! I look put together but step into my house and it’s probably a crap show (and that’s the PG version…it’s called #momlife!).
My favorite $20 Gucci belt dupe linked HERE
Authentic Gucci belt linked HERE and worth every penny.
Closet Staple #6: OTK Boots
I realize that these are not everyone’s cup of tea, but if they are, you need these! Add them to your cart. They come in 3 colors and run TTS, but wait for the store to run 40% off before you pull the trigger, because why spend more than you have to? We have lattes to buy!
These booties are linked HERE and they come in black and brown leather as well as leopard print! I don’t own these but this is a classic bootie for Fall.
Closet staple #7: Joggers. AKA sweatpants with jazz, ha!
I sized down in these because when you wear them and stretch them out, I don’t like when they get too saggy in the rear. Black is best because it goes with everything and people say it’s slimming…I wanna be slim and comfy too. These are only $12.
Closet Staple #9: Dark Denim.
My favorite is the first photo with the latte in hand per usual! They are linked HERE. I would say they run TTS and they are perfect for any occasion, including dressy attire because they are dark, skinny, with no rips. They hold up really well but have a higher price point.
My second most worn skinny jeans are THESE. These are now on sale under $40 and wear well.
Closet Staple #10: Chambray Shirt
I linked this exact shirt above. It is the perfect piece to transition to ALL seasons and it is timeless. Everyone needs one in their closet. White denim, shorts, Canadian tuxedo, or paired under sweaters for the Winter months.
HERE is another budget friendly option.
About Me: Lady and Red
I am lady and RED is my daughter’s initials! When I started this blog it was all about being a mom and cooking, because those are 2 other things I enjoy alongside fashion! I am a labor and delivery nurse by trade and miss my patient interactions so much, but that is where Instagram comes into play. I absolutely love my followers! I link everything I can with LiketoKnow.it. You can download the free app and follow me to shop all of my looks including my house decor! Basically this blog is a mixed bag because who wants to be limited to just one vice? I hope you loved my top closet staples and stick around for more Fall to Winter fashion!