Fashion can be a great form of self care for moms.
The “uniform of motherhood” has been associated with frumpy mom fashion for far too long. Putting time and effort into functional, comfortable fashion is not a sign of vanity but actually a way that moms can practice self care. Not only does it allow a mother to focus on herself for a change, but it can encourage good self-esteem and boost a mom’s confidence, which is great for her mental health.
Check out some of these tips for avoiding frumpy mom fashion this spring.

Comfortable can still mean fashionable, there is no need to sport frumpy mom fashion this season. If you are looking for an easy way to spruce up your mom wardrobe here are a few things to try!
“Ath-Leisure” Style
This look is my favorite new trend we are seeing everywhere and it’s already what most moms are wearing anyway.
Think workout clothes minus the actual working out.
It consists of super-soft, comfy, cozy, throw on and go pieces such as leggings and sweatshirts, hoodies and runners. (Awesome right?!)
But “athleisure” is not just for errands. These grown up play clothes can easily transition to casual dinners out, coffee with the girls, and perfect for travelling comfortably and still in style. It’s an easy way to replace the frumpy mom fashion, without losing any amount of comfort.
These super soft shirts from Shine the Light On are perfect for the athleisure style. And by wearing them, you’re helping to spread awareness about mental health! Get 15% off using the code RUNINTRIANGLES15.

To implement this look or update your current pieces, look for:
- Striped, color blocked or patterned tights.
- A flattering shaped hoodie. (I personally love a slightly cropped boxy hoodie in a super soft fleece.)
- A classic notched v sweatshirt. (Either plain or something with a saying is also pretty on trend.)
- A windbreaker. (Yes, you read that right but this little extra layer is everywhere right now, and its such an easy piece to replace when you would wear a jean jacket.)
- The fashion sneaker is still a great basic. (Choose either a fabric mix or a slip on.)

Switch From a Purse to a Backpack Bag
It’s been just over 6 months since I converted from a cross-body bag to my leather backpack and let me tell you, there is no going back! Since my youngest is still in diapers, my purse doubles as a diaper bag and endless snack sack. I love that I can throw everything I need in it and wear it comfortably while I chase my kids around. Backpacks are still very popular and I love the convenience.

Avoid frumpy mom fashion by choosing the right bag so that you can look trendy and still be functional. My recommendation would be to find one with good zippers and padded straps. Having an outside pocket is also handy to have easy access to keys and cellphone.

Updated Footwear
Jump in Puddles
The slushy season is about to start (fingers crossed our huge snow hills will actually melt) with that comes PUDDLES! There is almost nothing I hate quite as much as the feeling of wet socks! Our kids love tromping around in their bright colored rain boots, and what’s better than being able to join them? I find the taller, standard boots to be too bulky and can come off as frumpy mom fashion. So instead, I love the look of this sleek shorter rain boot as a transition shoe for the spring.

Sneakers Are fashionable
Tying back in the “athleisure” style, sneakers are perfect with any look. Pair them with, of course jeans or leggings, but don’t be scared to wear them with a dress for a total cool girl vibe (read: I’m not a regular mom, I’m a cool mom). You can never go wrong with a classic pair of Vans.
Loafers Are The New Ballet Flat
Move over ballet flat, the loafer is going to be your new BFF. In place of ballet flats for a slightly dressier look, these comfortable shoes go great with a pair of skinny jeans!

Switch Up Your Jewelry
Hoops
For a super long time I was strictly a stud girl when it came to earrings but lately I am addicted to hoops! I feel like they are the ultimate “lazy girl who wants to look put together” life hack.
Wearing leggings and a t-shirt but don’t want to look like you are going to the gym? Hoops.
Wearing a printed dress that feels a little too cutesy and you want to give it a little oomph? Hoops!
Small hoops, medium hoops or big ones, I think they look good on everyone. This is also a super easy way to look dressed up when your hair is tied back in that mom bun or ponytail. Throw on some hoops and lipstick and you are good to go!
Bar Necklaces
I personally have never been a fan of traditional “mom” jewelry. You know which ones I mean, the hearts with MOM in the center or the rings with everyone’s birthstone. I feel like they fall into the frumpy mom fashion category.
But this “be kind” bar necklace takes the trend of dainty and delicate jewelry and personalizes it. The simple message can make a mental health fashion statement so that you look good on the outside and feel good on the inside. It’s a great piece to wear with just a T-shirt or layer it with other chains for a fancier look.
Plus, get 15% off with coupon code FRIENDS15 at sincerelysilver.co

I hope that any of these tips or ideas inspire you to try something new this spring season.
Many of us spend time and money making sure our kids have the appropriate clothing and shoes for the new season, but it’s time to put ourselves on that list too. Find out how to create a self care routine so that you prioritize yourself too.

Jess Sankar is a happily married stay-at-home mother of two young daughters. She currently manages the Running in Triangles Instagram page @running_in_triangles, where she shares self care tips for moms and creates beautiful content for both the blog and social media. To learn more about Jess, click here.