Whether you're about to go back to work following maternity leave, or after a kid-filled summer, the shift from mumming to work is massive.
There's such a lot going on. But even putting aside the anxiety/fear/guilt/confidence issues/panic/excitement (you can have a wee on your own!) that comes with it, there's the issue of what to wear.
Finding smart, stylish workwear isn’t easy in any case, let alone when you’ve spent the past however long in casual, child-proof clothes and can't remember how to put on anything but jeans and leggings.
The identity crisis that can come from such a change in (wardrobe) pace shouldn't be underestimated. Who even is work you? What does she dress like?
But there's a lot to be excited about, too. You can wear impractical pale colours - or black - without risk of getting snot smears all over it. You can wear dry clean only (hello silk shirts!) and use a handbag that doesn't need to fit hundreds of snacks inside.
I put a call out last week for your biggest workwear dilemmas and here are the most asked questions answered.
Work trousers that look current and stylish - and the shoes to go with them
As with jeans, a pair of trousers in a modern shape is going to bring your work look up-to-date.
Tailored, wide trousers are still the thing and give smart pieces a cooler edge. However, if you’ve spent the first decade of your working life wearing slim, cigarette trousers (aka you’re 35 and over - hi!), a wider silhouette can be an adjustment. I find a higher-waist and flat-ish front (as opposed to something with lots of pleats) makes me feel more streamlined.
As for which shoes, a wider leg looks good with something chunky. Or go more elegant with a ballet flat or Mary Jane - a squarer toe works better than round. Or! If your office dress code permits, a sleek pair of trainers.
The rules of proportion say that wide bottoms need a fitted top. BUT if that’s not you, try a boxier top or jacket where the hem hits the waistband of your trousers. Like…
Uniqlo trousers, £49.90 - these are from the capsule collection designed by Clare Waight Keller (former creative director of Chloé and Givenchy) available 5th Sept.
Rothy’s Mary Janes, £175 - these are pricey but I've heard such amazing things about their comfort levels AND they're washable.
If you prefer a slimmer leg, a tapered or barrel-cut still feels current. Like these…
Everlane, £62 - I’m so intrigued by these - jogging bottom fabric in a smart cut. A great WFH option.
Non-iron smart tops
Clearly there's no time to get the iron out first thing, so unless you can be bothered to prep the night before, it's all about shirt alternatives.
Lightweight knits are a good direction to head in - collars always looks smart. A knitted T-shirt looks more luxe than a basic tee but will still make tailored trousers feel less corporate. Or do a waistcoat - they're still going strong.
If you can't bear to be without a shirt (so crisp!) get yourself a Steamery mini steamer, which heats up quickly and is powerful. And hang your shirt on a hanger as soon as it comes out of the wash to minimise creases.
Aligne waistcoat, £119 - there are loads of waistcoats around, but the nipped waist and longer line of this is so incredibly flattering, which in my eyes makes the extra spend worthwhile. You can mix it up with a white/grey T-shirt underneath, too.
Marks & Spencer cashmere T-shirt, £49.50 - wear this as a smarter version of a T-shirt or layer it under the matching cardigan as a cute twinset.
With Nothing Underneath shirt, £120 - this is actually made from wrinkle-resistant Tencel, which gives it a more draped look. And no iron!
Reasonably priced non-mum handbags
A bag all for yourself! No raisin boxes! No nappies! No need for it to be wipe clean! What joy.
Even a decent high-street bag is going to cost you three figures, so to make sure it's got longevity, I’d suggest going for leather (suitable for all weather/seasons) and a goes-with-everything dark neutral. Because my mum-bags are casual, I’m drawn to more polished, grown-up styles for work.
Jigsaw, £220 - I have this in black and it's such a useful not-too big size that still fits everything in.
Cos, £135 - this is styled as a clutch on the website, but comes with a long shoulder strap.
Arket, £279 - a luxe version of your laptop tote.
Sandqvist, £99.50 - the sleekest backpack I can find for those who bike to work/want a hands-free commuting experience.
Jackets that elevate jeans
If you can wear jeans to work then, hurray! (Dark denim or off-white looks smartest.) You might want something that elevates them a bit, especially if you've been wearing them a lot with the kids.
A tailored jacket and jeans is such a hit - it's that high/low formula that works so well.
Sézane, £175 - the perfect non-boring grey blazer that also work with jeans at the weekend.
Aligne, £175 - what a great shape! This comes in black and red as well as the check.
Sézane, £130 - this is actually a cardigan but the sharp silhouette is going to smarten up jeans AND soften tailored trousers.
What to wear to a work dinner that isn’t too saucy - or frumpy!
How to do smart evening wear that still make you feel hot and chic? A matching set gives the same one-and-done ease of a dress, but you’ve got added versatility as the styling can be mixed up more.
For example, layer the below waistcoat/trouser set with a shirt and add loafers for the day. Or team the trousers with a cashmere jumper. Then wear the top with smart black or cream jeans/a black satin skirt (this!) for evening.
Slinky knits are a great way to feel sexy but still covered. Again, wear the top with your nice work trousers, put a silk shirt with the skirt.
Augustinus Bader x Sophia Coppola lip balm, £33 - a posh, lovely thing that wont get ruined by the kids and can be applied on the tube. Use to add a sheer pop of colour to lips and cheeks.
Uniqlo ribbed knit top £34.90 and skirt £39.90 - another pick from the upcoming Uniqlo:C collection.
A few extras I found along the way
Dress up/dress down trousers. (I have these. They’re so comfy and lightweight - but not floaty. The olive green looks great with white/grey/navy/black)
One more thing…
I found going to my first work event after having my daughter so daunting, I panic booked a spray tan to make myself feel better. If a bronzed face/manicured nails/glossy blow-dry sounds like your kind of confidence-boost, use code MUMISH for 15% off at-home treatments on Lucie App. Valid until the end of September.
That's all for now. You're doing great, Frankie x
Love the waistcoat, but what do you wear on the bottom??! I always struggle with this.
Good question! I've worn a very similar one with bot straight and wide-leg trousers/jeans which worked! X