Fall Fashion for Mommies :: Steal vs. Splurge

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fall fashionI have always been addicted to fashion. When the September issues of the fashion magazines pop up I get excited in the supermarket checkout lines. I pour over each and every page and flag the styles I can’t wait to try on and purchase for my fall wardrobe. As a teacher, I have always looked at the fall as a new start – a new school year equals a new chance to try out all of the new styles. Since becoming a mom I have never let that role get in the way of my fashion sense or style.

I want to show all the mommies out there how easy it is to be fashion-forward this fall, while also being comfortable and not breaking the bank. Here are my top style tips for making your fall fashion the most stylish yet.  

**Steal pics are on the left, Splurge on the right. Click on the pictures for links.

Invest in basic pieces that can be worn with multiple things.

I always invest in a good pair of  black pants. I like the look of a slightly cropped style because then you can wear them with flats or sandals when the weather’s still warm, and then transition to booties as the weather gets cooler. The steal pair from OldNavy are the very popular pixie style that come in a variety of colors and are very versatile. The splurge pair are from J.Crew and although a bit pricey they will last forever and go with everything!
          

 

You cannot go wrong with a tried and true pair of jeans.

It’s all about the fit and comfort level. After years of denim shopping I feel like I have finally found what works on my body type. Once you have the style that fits your body, it takes the guessing out of shopping for jeans. High rise fit are popular with moms because then you aren’t pulling up your jeans all day and worried about your underwear showing! A dark wash is always flattering and slimming. The steal option below is from American Eagle and they fit like leggings, you will thank me later! This pair is made with Lycra for super stretch and a great fit. The splurge is a pair of AG from Nordstrom, these are the holy grail of denim. They are pricey but fit so well and are great quality.  

                

*If the jegging fit is not for you, check out the brands above in different styles and washes. Each brand offers so many options from boyfriend-cut to flare leg, they are all very fashion- forward at great price points.

A flowy top or tunic can be used in so many ways for your fall wardrobe.

You can wear it alone when the weather is still warm or add a cute jacket or cardigan over it for the colder temps. Adding lace to the details also makes this style functional and stylish. Plus, who doesn’t love a flowy top to hide all of that BBQ and ice cream inhaled over the summer! Flowy tunic tops are also great for work or a night out, so very versatile. The steal option is from Old Navy and encompasses so many Fall fashion trends: embroidery, lace up detail, chambray, and at a great price! The splurge is from one of my favorite stores, Anthropologie and will never go out of style.

                    

 It’s always good to have at least one “going out” shirt for each season.

I’m sure most of you focus your wardrobe on one area since having kids; either work or comfort. Then you look in your closet and realize you have nothing to wear for date nightOff the shoulder tops  have been all the rage for the last year and this style is not going away. It can be very flattering because a woman’s décolletage is very sexy without showing too much skin! As the weather gets cooler, you can find long sleeve versions or even sweater styles. The steal style is from Target! This off the shoulder beauty, which also comes in a lovely peach color, looks identical to other tops double the price. The splurge is from Loft and would look amazing with a bold statement necklace.

             

A versatile jacket is a must-have for fall.

Some of my favorite styles are the military cargo jacket, the bomber jacket, or the always in style denim jacket. All of these styles are great to throw over a tunic, dress or shirt and to add a bit of edge to your overall style. The steal style is from Target (once again!) and looks great over dresses or with jeans. The splurge style is a suede moto jacket from BlankNYC at Nordstrom.  This jacket comes in a variety of colors and was one of the top sellers in the anniversary sale.  It looks great with a dress or jeans and will last many seasons!

                

Athleisure is the newest trend to hit all the stores.

Wearing yoga pants and leggings all day is actually in style! The key is to find pieces that are fashionable and comfortable without looking like you just rolled out of bed. The steal pair are from Kohls and come in a variety of colors. These are very similar to a pair they sell at Old Navy as well. The splurge pair are from Zella at Nordstom. These leggings are called “Live In” leggings for a reason! They look great at the gym but also with a tunic or a cute dress and come in black as well for a more basic look. They are very good quality and will last a long time, so definitely worth the investment.  

              

What would Fall be without a great pair of booties?

Booties are a great way to add style to your fall wardrobe without going out of your comfort zone. They add a touch of style to any outfit whether it’s pants, a dress or skirt and with a low heel, booties are super comfortable to wear to work or chase after the kids! The steal pair are from Dolce Vita for Target and look a lot more expensive than their $38 price tag! The splurge pair are Blondo at Nordstrom. The most amazing thing about this pair and all Blondo boots is that they are waterproof, so they can take you through the entire winter season!

 I find that fitting fashion into a busy moms schedule does not have to be an extra task on your to- do list. If you have the basics to last throughout all seasons, just add a few trendy pieces here and there, and they don’t have to cost a fortune. Most of the pieces I’ve shown here are versatile and can be worn to work, to lunch or on a date. Fashion is a passion of mine and I hope I can inspire some of you to step up your mommy fashion game as well. We all have a little fashionista in us somewhere!

If you need any help or have styling tips to share comment below!

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