If you're a mum, I probably don't need to explain the specific anguish of trying to get dressed in the morning — especially when a toddler is tugging on your leg.
Putting together an outfit you like, let alone love, feels completely out of reach. So you turn to the same tired staples and just get on with it.
Meanwhile, we allow our toddlers to pick their own clothes, embellishing them with tutus and dinosaur tails and whatever they reach for to express themselves.
Funny, huh?
On that note, we talked about the postpartum style shift on Nothing To Wear. Post continues below.
I recently came across an Instagram reel by Laura Jackson, creative director and co- founder of digital lifestyle magazine Glassette, who explained the power that dressing intentionally can have on our brains.
It's a concept psychologists refer to as "enclothed cognition", and the crux of it is that putting a little more effort into your outfit can help you think and act more strategically.
When you feel good in your clothes, you're more switched on. It's literally science.
Now, I know we're all struggling to find an extra few minutes to make ourselves toast, let alone pull together a full look, but that's where a bit of prep comes in.
On a recent episode of Nothing To Wear, I spoke to stylist and former Vogue China fashion director Grace Lam about how to dress with confidence, and she suggested we actually pre-package our outfits in our wardrobes — much like you would if you were meal prepping.
I realised I already do this subconsciously, and it takes so much of the legwork out of getting dressed.
I have three go-to outfit formulas that make me feel fashionable, comfortable and capable. Feel free to borrow them.
Formula 1. Oversized shirt + textured pant.
A toddler-proof outfit I still feel good in. Target shirt, Araminta James pants. Image: Supplied.
Roomy collared shirts are one of the most utilised styles in my wardrobe. Incredibly versatile and easy to wear, they're such a handy staple for mum life because they look cool, while also keeping you covered at playgrounds and bike tracks.
Denim shirts can also sub in here, especially in the cooler months. And for summer, you could do an oversized t-shirt.
Left: Mael shirt and H&M knit pants. Right: Bassike shirt with Nude Lucy pants and Vestirsi bag. Images: Supplied.
Rather than deferring to jeans or leggings, I always pair my shirting with pants that offer a contrasting texture: crochet, terry towelling, knit or something silky.
Together, they make for a combination that feels elevated, but still effortless.
Here are some pieces I'm loving the look of lately.
Dissh Rhea 2.0 Cream Oversized Shirt, $140.
Image: Dissh.
Target Lily Loves Denim Oversized Shirt, $60.
Image: Target.
Best and Less Womens Straight Leg Terry Trackpant, $25.
Image: Best and Less.
Vrg Grl Raya Pants Umber, $119.
Image: Vrg Grl.
Formula 2. Smock dress and slides.
Wearing a smock dress simplifies getting dressed. Especially with a busy two-year-old. Image: Supplied.
There are certain days when you just want to throw on one piece and be done with it.
This is where my collection of 'throw-on-and-go' smock dresses comes in. I have short ones, midis and maxis, and in summer I basically live in them.
Wearing a smock from the markets with a Madewell bag and Billini shoes. Image: Supplied.
I literally chuck on my leather thongs or sandals, some layered gold jewellery and I'm out the door.
If your style tends to lean a bit more bohemian or beachy, this combo might be for you.
Shop throw-on-and-go dresses below.
The Lullaby Club Maxi Avalon Smock Dress, $140.
Image: The Lullaby Club.
Daughters of India Dahlia Mini Dress, $249.
Image: Daughters of India.
Formula 3. Comfortable co-ords.
One of my favourite striped sets by Friend of Audrey. Image: Supplied.
What did I wear before matching sets came along? Thank goodness this trend appears to be sticking around for another year.
I find it's an easy way to feel put together without needing to overthink it.
There are endless options on the market, but I love a linen shell top with matching pants, a striped shirt and shorts, or soft cotton co-ords.
Left: Ciao Ciao Vacation set. Right: Nude Lucy set. Images: Supplied.
Accessories can completely change the look — add some polish with minimal sandals and a structured bag, or keep it casual with suede sneakers and a crossbody.
You can find great linen and cotton sets on a budget at Target and Best & Less, or spend a little more at Australian brands like Aere, Nude Lucy and Dissh.
Nude Lucy Sutton Tee, $70, and Sutton pant, $100.
Image: Nude Lucy.
Best and Less Short Sleeve Boxy Shirt, $25, and Linen Blend Shorts, $20.
Image: Best and Less.
For more helpful style advice and shopping recommendations, subscribe to the weekly Nothing to Wear Substack, listen to the Nothing to Wear podcast or watch Nothing to Wear on YouTube.
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Feature image: Supplied/Instagram @_tamaradavis_.
