I remember my first day back to work after the birth of my daughter like it was yesterday. Chances are if you are a working mom, you do too. What you wear on the inside as a working mom far surpasses any outfit tips I can provide. Here was my blog post the night before returning to work:

I’ve been planning what I will wear to work tomorrow for over 12 weeks. Yes, that is much more intentionality compared to the quick outfits I throw together while hurrying out the door. Tomorrow I will wear what many mothers before me have suited on.

My first day back to work will be so emotionally challenging. I pray I can wear pride, a sense of self, courage, and intelligence. But my accessories will no doubt reflect guilt, doubt, and vulnerability.

Making the choice to be a working mom is one I always knew was right for me, but it doesn’t make it any easier. This article inspired me to remember why I’m making this choice for our family: http://m.huffpost.com/us/entry/3069576 

I hope one day to explain to Emory why I work and how heartbreaking it was to leave her. I hope she understands and feels empowered to make whatever choice best meets the needs of her family and her heart. I hope she is blessed enough to be able to have that decision. There are so many things I wish for my little girl!

Although the details of my outfit are included, it’s what I wear tomorrow and everyday within myself that counts.

So a year later, what have I learned? Being a working mom is HARD WORK! Here are some tips to simplify your life if you want to maintain a sense of fashion despite a busy lifestyle:

Plan Ahead
I used to enjoy trying on several outfits in the morning before heading to work. Now with limited time and a little one who causes a welcome distraction, it’s crucial to plan ahead. When possible, plan your outfit the night before or spend time on Sundays organizing options. Consider diversity in your planning. Wear dresses on Mondays and Wednesday, skirts on Tuesday and Thursday and pants on Friday…or whatever combination works for you. Setting some kind of outfit routine will help you plan looks in a pinch and minimize the anxious am emotion of having nothing to wear. When in doubt, wear all black and pile on the accessories. You’ll look polished and professional.

Shop Online
You spend the week busy at the office and evenings and weekends are booked solid with activities. Who has time to shop? Sneak in some shopping before everyone wakes up with a nice cup of hot coffee or late in the evening with some wine. Think of it as retail therapy in your jammies. Spending money on yourself is tough to justify but set a budget and treat yourself to a few trendy pieces each season. When shopping online, make sure to buy a brand you know you like the fit and quality. You definitely don’t have time to run around making returns. Another great mommy secret is Target. Let’s face it, you are going there this week anyway, why not browse quickly for yourself? They always have fun, fresh styles.

Buy Weekend Wear
Most of your clothing budget probably is allocated to look the part from 9 to 5, but be sure to save some for the weekends. Buy comfy yet stylish looks to run your kiddos to sports and avoid that MOMent where you are caught looking like a hot mess. If you want to spend a little more, Lululemon is great for weekend wear. Otherwise, T.J. Maxx and Old Navy tend to have chic, comfy options. Invest in a fun pair of snazzy sneakers to complete the look like some throwback New Balances or leopard print Nikes. Finally, the hardest thing for me as a working mom is finding the desire to go out on the weekends. This was probably the biggest shift since I used to be the life of the party kinda gal. But there’s a season for everything, and those days are behind me for now. However, when you do decide to go out on the town with grownups, be sure your wardrobe is ready. Leather leggings and a fun top will do the trick.

It’s that time of year again to bundle up and load on the layers. We all remember how cold it was last winter. While most Cincinnatians run to Kroger for milk and bread before the snow falls, I’m hurrying to Kenwood to stock up on winter trends to stay warm this season. With a frigid forecast upon us, get your closet ready for the cold with these winter trends.

Oversized Outerwear & Capes
Outwear is your biggest statement piece in the winter. A warm, fashionable coat is a must-have. This season, Olivia Pope aka Kerry Washington from Scandal is continuing to inspire outwear with the belted look. Of course, my wishlist includes an oversized, colorful belted overcoat. If you’re a bargain shopper, you can find this look at stores like T.J. Maxx or J.Crew Factory.

Capes are also the perfect way to stay warm while looking cute. From errands to the office, capes can be paired with leggings and boots or wool dresses with tights. Capes are cozy and last winter I loved how they flattered my post-baby figure. If you’re going to wear a cape with leggings, make sure it is long enough to cover your backside. I’m a firm believer that if you’re over 16 years old, you can only wear leggings if your top is long enough. Capes with collared shirts, turtlenecks, and scarves are the perfect top layer for winter wear.

Faux fur vests or collars are a classic style for outwear. If you want to stick with a timeless trend, bundle up in a furry piece. It is guaranteed to keep you warm too!

Chunky Sweaters & Scarves
Make these feel a little less bulky by pairing them with fitted pieces like skinny leather pants or fitted jackets. Everyone will be envious of you as you keep warm in the chilly weather with knits. I’d suggest finding winter white sweaters with a flowy fit. Banana Republic offers chunky yet feminine options.

Blanket scarves are also super trendy this season. Just the idea of it makes me less intimidated to weather the cold. Dress it up with a wool blazer or down with boyfriend jeans. Either way, stock up on plaid or print blanket scarves. Target and Forever 21 have affordable options.

Booties
Keep your bootie, I mean feet, warm with the right shoes. Booties are a great alternative to pumps and look adorable with opaque tights or skinny jeans. Tan booties are really in this year. Be sure to spray them to protect them from the elements. Speaking of wet weather, on weekends, you’ll find me in my Uggs or Hunters. Regardless of style, make sure you have at least one pair of boots that are waterproof for when the big storm hits. Snow and salt quickly take a toll on winter footwear. If you haven’t already done so, take your boots to a local shoe repair like the one in Mt. Lookout to get them ready for the long winter.

Remember that being warm is always in style. Be sure to locate your warm socks, knit hat, and tech-friendly gloves so you’re all set for the cold weather. Treat yourself to a cozy robe and some slippers for the days when you decide hibernating indoors is a better option.

Halloween is the ultimate opportunity to dress up. Whether you’re going to a party or handing out candy, make your costume a chance to be silly, spooky, or highlight your personality. The most important tip when planning your costume is to be whimsical yet tasteful. Some women view Halloween as a chance to wear short, tight, or unflattering clothes all in the spirit of the holiday. Although it wasn’t a good look even in your college years, it may have been more socially acceptable. Be the hit of the party with some modest, grown-up costumes.

Fashionista
● The Devil Wears Prada- Even if you don’t own a designer handbag, you can still wear this simple, chic costume. Buy devil horns and a tail to pair with a black outfit. Print or craft a Prada logo to label yourself.
● Audrey Hepburn in Breakfast at Tiffany’s- You already have this classic look in your closet. Grab your LBD, pearls, and sunglasses. Style your hair in a bun and you are basically set. If you happen to own anything from Tiffany’s or have a blue bag, use this to add a little pop of color.
● Kate Spade or Pick a Designer- Wear a preppy outfit or deck yourself out with spade playing cards. Next, add a nametag that says, “Hi, My Name is KATE.” You could also dress as Coco Chanel, Betsey Johnson, or Lilly Pulitzer.

Throwback
● Minnie Mouse- Find pieces with polka dots and incorporate red accessories. Next, purchase mouse ears and wear white gloves to complete the look.
● Cruella Deville- Let’s be honest, this idea involves a lot more effort but is such a classic choice. In order to make this work, you must style your hair or buy a wig to really emphasize this character. Clothes can be simple with a faux fur or some kind of oversized jacket paired with a dress. Wear a hint of red and most importantly bring along your favorite furry pup or stuffed animal. If you’re a mom of a little one, Pottery Barn Kids has an adorable spotted dog costume!
● Flapper or Pick your Favorite Decade- Buy or rent a fringe dress to wear with a head dress and fishnets. Tie a long strand of pearls around your neck and you’re ready. 50s attire is also a fun decade to inspire your costume. If you want to rent something, check out Talk of the Town in Reading. It’s like walking into a wonderful fashion time warp. They have a 60s floral dress that I adore!

Group Effort
● Cast of Characters- Whether it’s your favorite video game like Mario or old school cartoon like The Flintstones, grab a group of your besties and dress up together. You’ll have fun picking out your costumes and several minds are better than one.
● Super Heroes- I’d pick Superwoman but there are so many options. Find a cape and discover your inner super powers.
● Where’s Waldo- If you’re going to a party as a group, this is an easy, fun option. Plus, stripes and statement glasses are super hip right now.

Still scrambling for a last minute look? Rosie the Riveter is a perfect choice for any girl wanting to show off her strength. Grab your chambray shirt and bandana. Be ready to flex!

Regardless of what you wear, have a safe and enjoyable Halloween!

Photo credit: Lauren Conrad

Polka dota & pleats and leater & plaid are go-to favorites.

Contemporary style enables you to mix and match many combinations to find the perfect pair. Before I started blogging, I spent quite a bit of time fretting over whether or not my outfit matched. Now I realize that anything goes and the trick is really finding a good balance of color, texture, and prints. When styling a look, consider partnering fitted with flowy and deals with designer pieces. Looking for a little inspiration? Here are some of my “go-to” favorites:

Polka Dots & Pleats
Since naming my blog after this perfect pair, you see various combinations of both. Big or small, polka dots exemplify preppy yet whimsical attire. Pleated skirts are a great option this season especially if you can find one that looks like leather. Wearing them together is a great option for brunch with the girls.

Leather & Plaid
Vegan leather is EVERYWHERE for fall. It’s tough to walk through the mall without seeing a leather sleeve, jacket or trim. Mix this look with plaid for a cozy yet sophisticated combination. Look chic while enjoying a fall bonfire and continue sporting it into the frigid winter (which none of us are ready to even think about, right?). Leather and plaid works well for the office and can easily be dressed down for weekend wear. Stick with classic prints when buying plaid such as buffalo checks or tartan. Both are super in style now but the fashion forecast suggests they will last several seasons.

Stripes & Floral
You might be thinking that this combo is too loud for your taste. Think again, take a risk and have a little fun. You probably already have both in your closet. If do you plan to wear two prints together, make sure one is delicate and the other one is bold. For example, wear skinny stripes with large floral print or small floral with wider stripes. Look for fall floral fabrics including pants, scarves, jackets, and dresses. Select darker hues to avoid looking like you’re hanging on to summer.

Now it’s your turn! Go ahead and try a few of these pairings. Let us know how it goes. When you’re ready for more inspiration, follow me on Facebook at Polka Dots & Pleats. I look forward to partnering with you on this fashion journey.