I’ll let you in on a little secret—before I was a mom, I was a fashion design major. I spent my days sketching silhouettes, studying fabrics, and dreaming up beautiful, thoughtful outfits. Style felt second nature to me.
But somewhere along the way, between caring for my daughter and the fullness of everyday life, I started to feel a little out of touch—not just with trends, but with your own personal style.
And if you’re a mom, you know how this usually goes.
The kids get new sandals, new swimsuits, new everything… while you’re still holding onto that one top from five summers ago thinking, “It still works… right?”
Because somehow, kids manage to outgrow clothes after wearing them approximately one time, and we’re over here just trying to make last year’s wardrobe stretch one more season.
While it’s second nature to prioritize what everyone else needs first, it can be really refreshing to take a little time to update a few things for yourself too. It doesn’t have to be overwhelming or expensive—just thoughtful, simple changes that help you feel a little more like you again.
So if you’ve been feeling a bit disconnected from your wardrobe, here are some helpful tips for making small, seasonal updates in a way that feels easy, intentional, and even enjoyable.
Start in Your Own Closet
Before buying anything new, start with what you already have.
Take some time to go through your closet piece by piece and ask:
- Do I actually wear this?
- Do I feel good in it?
- Does it fit my life right now?
A helpful rule of thumb: if you haven’t worn something in the past two years, chances are you’re not going to. And that’s okay—your style and your season of life have likely shifted.
One simple trick is to turn all your hangers backward. As you wear items, turn them the right way. After a year, anything still hanging backward is a clear sign it’s time to donate. It removes the guesswork and makes decisions easier.
Creating space in your closet makes room for pieces you truly love.
Gather Inspiration (and Reconnect With Your Style)
If your style feels a little unclear, start by noticing what you’re drawn to.
Spend time on Pinterest or Instagram and save outfits that catch your eye. Not to copy exactly, but to recognize patterns in what you like.
Consider:
- A character in a movie whose outfits feel effortless
- A celebrity with a casual, wearable style
- A clothing brand you consistently gravitate toward
Over time, you’ll begin to see common threads—colors, shapes, fabrics—that help define your personal style in a way that feels authentic.
Make a List (Because Mom Brain Is Real)
Before heading out to shop, make a list of what you actually need.
Without a list, it’s easy to get distracted, forget what you came for, and end up with pieces that don’t really fill the gaps in your wardrobe. A little “mom brain” doesn’t help here either.
A list keeps things focused and intentional.
It might include:
- A pair of everyday shorts
- A lightweight dress
- A few versatile tops
Shopping with a plan helps you avoid impulse buys and ensures that what you bring home actually works with what you already own.
Make It a Fun Outing
Shopping doesn’t have to feel like a chore.
Try visiting a new store or turning it into a fun outing with friends. Grab coffee, take your time, and enjoy the process.
And when those fitting room mirrors start to feel a little questionable (because they often do), having a trusted friend there can make all the difference. They’ll give you honest feedback and help you see what truly works.
Look for Hidden Gems
Updating your wardrobe doesn’t have to mean spending a lot.
Thrift stores can be full of hidden gems if you’re willing to take the time to look. You can often find unique, high-quality pieces—especially for spring and summer.
Online resale platforms like Poshmark and ThredUp are also great options for finding items at a lower price.
You might even consider selling a few of your own pieces as you clean out your closet.
Or make it social—host a clothing swap with friends. It’s a fun way to refresh your wardrobe and brings back that lighthearted feeling of sharing clothes, just like when you were younger.
Let Go of the Pressure to Follow Trends
Not every trend needs to be part of your wardrobe.
At this stage of life, you likely already know what you feel good in—and that matters more than what’s currently trending.
Trends come and go. If something doesn’t fit your style, it’s okay to skip it.
If barrel pants aren’t your thing, no need to worry—something else (hello, skinny jeans) will come back around in time.
The goal isn’t to keep up with every trend—it’s to build a wardrobe that feels like you.
A Gentle Reminder
It’s easy to put your own needs on the back burner, especially as a mom. There’s always something else that feels more important.
But taking a little time to refresh your wardrobe—to choose pieces that make you feel comfortable and confident—isn’t selfish. It’s meaningful.
Even small updates can help you feel more like yourself again.
And sometimes, stepping into that space might feel a little unfamiliar—but it’s worth it.
“Let your light shine before others, that they may see your good deeds and glorify your Father in heaven.” — Matthew 5:16
You were made to shine—in every season. And sometimes, that begins with something as simple as wearing what makes you feel like yourself again.
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Read more of Joanna’s contributions to AllMomDoes here.
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