Rediscovering My Style In Motherhood: 6 Easy Outfit Hacks

Last Updated on May 14, 2025 by Amy

When I first started this blog, it was all about skincare and makeup—the little rituals that helped me feel like me again during the fog of early motherhood. A swipe of mascara, a quick cleanse, it was never about looking perfect, but about finding a moment of calm and self-connection in the chaos.

Now that my youngest is nearly three, I’m fighting the sudden urge to donate everything I own and reinvent my style from the ground up. After five years of living in leggings, oversized sweatshirts, and slightly scuffed trainers, I’m craving outfits that make me feel confident, comfortable, and like myself again.

The tricky part? I’m not entirely sure what my style is anymore. My body has changed. My routine has changed. And so has my idea of what “put together” looks like.

Beauty will always be the heart of this blog, but if you’re also coming up for air and starting to enjoy getting dressed again, I’d love for you to come along on this journey with me. I’m not a fashion expert—just a millennial mum navigating the world of outfits that fit real life (and still involve chasing a toddler around). No runway looks here—yes, I’m still loyal to my skinny jeans—but I am testing what’s actually wearable, stylish, and makes the morning rush a little easier.

Here are six outfit (and beauty) hacks I’ve been using lately to feel more like myself, without spending hours getting ready:

1. The Mum Uniform, Upgraded

Athleisure has been my go-to for years—and honestly, I’ve probably spent 80% of the past five years in leggings! It’s the ultimate busy-mum uniform: comfy, practical, and, with the right pieces, surprisingly chic. Now I think it’s time to find outfits that feel more intentional, still easy to throw on, but with a bit more polish. Perfect for the school run!

How to make it work:

Invest in a matching set (like leggings and a hoodie) in a trendy shade. Neutral tones are still in for 2025, but bright pops of red, butter yellow and green are very on trend.
The ‘Balletcore’ trend is huge this spring/summer. I’ll leave the tutus for my toddler, but I’m loving some of these wrap knitwear pieces:

Layer with a sleek bomber jacket or a structured wool coat to add polish.
Swap worn-out trainers for clean, minimalist sneakers or a chic pair of loafers.

Quick tip: Want to ditch leggings? Try wide-leg joggers or relaxed-fit trousers—they’re just as comfy, but feel a little more trendy.

2. Go for a Monochromatic Outfit

Wearing one colour from head to toe is the easiest way to look instantly pulled together. It’s flattering, simple, and makes getting dressed a breeze.

How to make it work:

Start with a base colour you love—neutrals like black, navy, mocha, or soft greige always look chic. Or bring in spring with pastels like sage green or lilac.
Mix textures (cotton tee + knitted cardigan) to keep it from feeling flat.
Opt for clean, well-fitting shapes like slim trousers with a tucked-in top or a knit dress with boots.

Quick tip: Add contrast with accessories—a gold necklace, statement earrings, or a colourful crossbody can elevate the whole look.

3. Use Statement Accessories to Dress Up Basics

When you’re working with a simple outfit (hello, jeans and a tee), accessories are the easiest way to make it feel stylish and intentional.

How to make it work:

Throw on a statement silk scarf (yes, they are back in fashion!), leopard print flats, or chunky gold hoops for instant polish.
Keep an oversized tote or chic crossbody by the door so it’s easy to grab on the way out.
Sunglasses, a structured handbag, or simple jewellery can take your look up a notch with zero effort.

Quick tip: Leopard print totally counts as a neutral—don’t be afraid to use it as a fun accent.

4. Choose Stylish Yet Comfortable Footwear

Shoes are where I struggle most. My pre-kids collection of strappy sandals and stilettos has been gathering dust, and while I still live in trainers, I’ve been exploring some more polished (yet still practical) options.

How to make it work:

Ballet flats are making a comeback; choose a pair with a pointed or square toe for a grown-up twist.
Loafers dress up jeans, or leggings in seconds.
White trainers go with everything; just stick to a clean, minimalist design.

Quick tip: Keep your everyday pairs by the door so you’re not scrambling when it’s time to go.

5. Have a Go-To Dress for Instant Style

Dresses are the ultimate time-saver. One piece. No matching. Done.

How to make it work:

Look for midi dresses in soft, easy fabrics. They’re comfortable, flattering, and great for layering.
Add a denim jacket or a faux-leather biker for that casual-cool balance.
Stick to timeless prints like stripes or floral, or go monochrome for minimal effort.

Quick tip: A dress with pockets? Yes, please. Practical and stylish.

6. Bonus Tip: Master the 2-Minute Beauty Routine

Looking put together isn’t just about clothes; fresh skin and well-kept hair make a huge difference.

How to do it:

Use a tinted moisturiser or BB cream for a quick, fresh-faced look.
Brush up your brows with a tinted gel to frame your face effortlessly.
Keep a multi-use product (like a lip and cheek tint) handy for a quick pop of colour.
Hair in need of a refresh? A sleek ponytail, claw clip updo, or a quick spritz of dry shampoo does the trick.

Check out my Beauty Hacks for Busy Mums post for more ideas!

I hope you have enjoyed my first fashion post! Subscribe to my newsletter for more beauty and fashion tips in your inbox.