High-waisted, pleated, stone-washed, tapered-leg, cinched at the waist? Yep, those are Mom jeans. See Video. Now be honest have you committed this fashion sin? If you have, there is still time to redeem yourself. Start by getting rid of those jeans, and while you’re at it, for goodness sakes, get rid of those 1990′s aerobic shoes with lime green sides that you keep trying to wear with jeans.
What are some of those not so trendy pieces of clothing you don’t want to get rid of? For me, it would be my two piece velour pants and hooded jacket. I know it screams “suburban mom” but it’s so comfy and perfect to wear around the house, I can also run errands and pick up the kids without having to change.
Many women think, “Well, I would rather look like an out of style mama, than a hoochie mama.” One mom shares “I am not a sexy young thing anymore, I don’t need to be showing off my junk everytime I bend over.” Yes, I agree. No one should be “showing off their junk everytime they bend over” but that doesn’t mean you need to go off the deep end and commit the number one mom fashion sin: mom jeans.
Now these days you can find a happy medium. Jeans are now made to taylor every kind of body and budget: medium rise, boot cut, slim cut, flare . . . I know it’s work to find a good pair of jeans, but it’s so worth it when you do, because you can get a lot of mileage on them by dressing them up or down. Walmart carries brands like Signature by Levi and Rider jeans that are affordable and stylish. Look for a just-below-the-navel waistband for a contemporary look. And nix trendy low cut jeans, those are for your teens.
Sheknows.com says “If skinny jeans aren’t for you, pick out a pair of flattering, slim bootcut jeans instead. Bootcut jeans can balance out wide hips and elongate the look of your legs.” Don’t be afraid to try on different sizes. Depending on the brand and cut, jeans are sized differently.
Accesorizing is Key
Dressing down your jeans can be done without the oversized sweat shirt or your favorite old t-shirt. Accesories and shoes are key when you are trying to figure out if you want casual or dressy! For example, here is a simple white tee and jeans set, but the accesories & shoes make all the difference!
- Out at the zoo with the kids: jeans, shirt, scarf and flats, awesome. If you would have had this on with athletic shoes, not so awesome! Athletic shoes should only be worn with workout clothes. Shoes can make or break an outfit so find a nice casual but versatile pair of comfy shoes.
- PTO meeting or Bible Study – add the cardigan!
- Girls nite out or date night with hubby - bring on the bling!
Picture credits: SNL video, Gap jeans, tracy-althouse at Polyvore, Julesgirl84 at Polyvore
Lol…oh, mom jeans. I just hate them! I’ve found some great jeans at Old Navy and Express that are flattering but appropriate. I’m glad you shared these tips at Shine on Fridays!
Amy,
I like Old Navy jeans esp. when they are on the sale rack!
Totally remember that SNL skit…hilarious!! This is such a great post and I totally agree with your take on mom fashion.
Thanks so much for sharing this at Inspiration Friday this week!
Vanessa
Vanessa, thanks for the kind words and I am glad I am not alone on my fashion views.
Awesome post!
Kelli @ TheTurquoisePiano.blogspot.com
Kelli, thanks for stopping by and commenting!
Love the first photo, so funny! Have you read Rachel’s post about Mom Jeans at Grasping for Objectivity? I think you would really appreciate it. I like your ideas on accessorizing.
Karen,
No, I haven’t been to that site before but I will have to check it out. Yes, the first photo is hilarious!
great tips. I love a comfy pair of jeans with a scarf and ballet flats. The cutest! Thanks so much for linking up and sharing!
http://www.blissfulanddomestic.blogspot.com
Danielle, I wish my wide feet could do ballet flats
because I agree they are cute.
haha I remember those mom jeans comments! your post is informative and encouraging for me, a mom!!
Mom to 8,
I love sweet notes, thanks!
Why does my mom continue to insist on the mom jean? Ugh!
A few blogger friends and I have collectively introduced a fun challenge for January. It would be so awesome if you want to participate! http://thespacebetweenblog.wordpress.com/2012/01/09/imagine-the-impossibilities-challenge/
Karah @ thespacebetweenblog
Karah,
I am pretty sure my does but she hides it with long shirts over the jeans, lol. I will definitely stop by and check out your challenge.
Haha, I’ll be honest, I commit the shoes sin pretty often.:)
Shiloh, Your too funny! I am sure I commit many fashion faux paux, myself.
The first photo is hilarious and brings but memories I don’t want to remember! thanks for posting an informative post. Now I’m encouraged to not do the momma jeans again! Also like you accessories ideas. Thanks for sharing at Sunday’s Best and all your inspiration!
Cathy,
LOL, memories of our past fashion trends. Gosh there are some pictures from my past I wouldn’t mind getting rid of.
I love my velour jump suit too! My husband hates it! It’s so comfy, and great to run errands in!
Yes, I know, I know. COMFY!!!!
Lol! – love it
I wear jeans from the juniors department( but not the low cut ones) They just fit better than the misses sizes. Thanks for linking up at FNF!
Courtney,
I have some petite friends who also shop in the Jr. section. Back in the day I shopped there too. It’s actually a lot cheaper than the grown up clothes.
Great Post! Thank you for linking up to Strut Your Stuff Saturday. We would love to have you come back next Saturday and share more of your incredible ideas. -The Sisters
I can;’t get rid of my college hooded sweatshirts! They probably make me look like a teen mom, but they’re just so comfy and perfect for lazy days!
That’s one of my fave SNL skits! And I had already pinned that pretty pale pink outfit on Pinterest, so funny. Thanks for linking up to Refresh Your Nest Friday!