With warm Texas weather upon us (finally!), we are ready to venture back out into the world with some fun fashion flair that had been hiding in our dark closets. After being a homebody for a year there is more reason to ditch the sweatpants and leggings, and find some ready-to-wear outfits that spark you the most joy. Don’t worry, we’ll send over some Marie Kondo organization tips over, too!
Being pregnant and a stay-at-home mom who still rallies the kids 24/7 at home I wanted to refresh my fashion game, even though some days I feel quite alright staying in my pajamas. I found myself consulting with my bestie who lives in New York City and breathes the fashion industry. The best advice she gave me to start my post-pandemic fashion journey is to invest in pieces you can use multiple times and multiple ways vs. fast fashion that represents trends right now.
These days there are no rules to where you can, or can’t shop. Most brands have an online presence, or app to shop from the comfort of your phone, which makes shopping easy if you’re familiar with the sizing and fit. Just make sure you always take note of the return and exchange policies. Also, she mentioned that sustainability is growing popularity amongst designers. Even if you have an expendable income there is no shame in buying on resale websites, or going vintage shopping. Greta Thunberg would be so proud! Overall, steering to online shopping is the way to go with better assortment and offerings.
Here are some places where you can find fun, practical, sustainable and affordable fashion finds:
Target
As if it wasn’t hard enough to get in and out of Target already, Target should be on your top list to shop for some new threads. Their array of clothing choices allows you to refresh your style at an affordable price, and the convenience is a huge factor the next time you’re shopping for detergent, diapers and lip gloss. From brands like: A New Day, JoyLab, Denizen, Who What Wear, Wild Fable you should be able to find outfits that fit your frame for those outings you’ve been waiting all year to indulge in. Denizen by Levi’s can automatically update your jean look, while JoyLab gives you more stylish athletic lounge options. There are a ton of dress styles, fabrics and colors amongst A New Day and Who What Wear, while Wild Fable offers some everyday casual wear. Can’t find your size in store? Download Target’s app, scan the barcode and view the available sizes, and possible colors your item comes in.
Amazon
Like Target, Amazon is easy to splurge on while shopping for all those things you think you need. But, unlike Target, Amazon provides a platform for major fashion companies, like Kate Spade, BCBGMaxAzria, and Michael Kors, and began developed its in-house private label brands. Lark & Ro’s focus is polished and professional but with modern flair that keeps it looking trendy, while Daily Ritual and Amazon Essentials offers some simple casual staples for your wardrobe that compete in both quality and price. From boho maxi dresses, undergarments, athleisure wear to handbags, jewelry and shoes, you can find anything you want on Amazon. If you’re a Prime member, you have access to the Prime Wardrobe Try before you buy, plus free returns and personal shoppers for you mamas that need a little more help. Say ‘Hi’ to the Amazon delivery drivers for me!
Classic Store Brands
Sticking to the classics, like Gap, Inc; Ann Taylor Brands and J.Crew Brands can be worth your time, especially if you’re looking for an in-person shopping experience, and like trying on clothes before you buy. I like to pop into these stores every once in awhile and check out their new arrivals and sale racks to see what gems I could find. Ann Taylor LOFT has a great assortment of dresses, casual wear and a lounge line, Lou & Grey which is some ofthe softest material you’ll want to lounge in all day. J.Crew Factory had practical and casual staples for the upcoming warm weather and summer vacation wear that is quickly approaching. All stores have a larger assortment and size availability of clothing online, but found the better sale deals to be in-store. These classic name-brand stores have a vast selection of maternity, plus size and gender-neutral clothing, if you’re specifically searching for those options. You can also peek at Zara, H&M, or Nordstrom to expand your search for more trendy, yet practical pieces.
Both local and online specialty stores have a solid understanding what women want to wear and keep budget and practicality in mind. As you head into your next shopping journey, here are some tips for you to keep in mind:
- Make sure to sign-up and join their email list to receive an initial percentage off, or future emails of upcoming sales
- Get an idea of what items you have/don’t have in your closet before you go crazy adding items to your cart
- It’s a good idea to scroll through the store website/app before heading out to the store to see if they have an item in-stock, on sale, or online only items
- If you’re insta-saavy and follow a few influencers that you fancy their style, download the LiketoKnow.it app to get specific sites and links to that specific product
