My dear friend once explained to me that upon becoming a mother, she no longer bothered to put clean clothes on in the morning. I can remember smugly thinking to myself (I was quietly in the early days with my first), that I would never let my standards drop…

So now I confess to you that twice this week, I have considered taking something out of the dirty wash basket to wear. Both times, unbeknown to me during my planning thought process, the item I had planned to wear had failed to make it through the wash. And I hate diverting from a plan. Hence the basket was opened, items were located and inspected to see if there was any possibility of wearing them. Both times, they were found to be in a wearable condition.  Both times, said items were placed back in the wash basket. And both times I had to come up with an alternative. I just couldn’t do it.

I’m sure I’m not alone when I say as fashion is not my main focus in life, and as I have many more important things to prioritise, clothes are often thrown on after a super speedy shower. And I don’t have a ridiculously vast wardrobe full of amazing jeans etc. So how on earth can I or anyone who is time poor with perspective about clothes leave the house feeling confident and put together when there is sometimes not even time to check yourself our in full length mirror?

I’m thinking the following:

1. Your shoes and final layer can make a huge different to your overall look. This week I’ve had some dull moments but my leopard print faux fur coat, leather jacket, pink trainers and scandi wool cardi have saved the day and transformed the truly dull to interesting, at least for me.
2. Thinking ahead even a little bit can save time in the morning. But make sure the thing you think you are going to wear is not in the dirty wash basket or hanging out to dry… That is really annoying.
3. If you have the time, have a little search on Pinterest for inspiration on how to style and item you have. I did this with my biker boots last week which inspired me to wear them more.
4. Ensure you really like anything you buy and have fewer items of clothing. There is no point having tonnes of clothes if hardly any get worn and it can confuse the issue when you’re trying to get ready in a hurry. I’m discovering the clear winners in my wardrobe and plan to Marie Kondo my closet in the New Year.
5. When you buy something, make sure you love it. And that it fits. And that it actually goes with stuff in your wardrobe.  Then, when you’re in a rush, or can’t be bothered to think too much about it, you can throw clothes on in a combo you know works and feel good to go.
6. Invest in key pieces that you love – I’ve read this so many times but only ever invested (what classes as an investment is surely relative?!) in a couple of things – my leather jacket and a handbag. Thanks to nappies and baby wipes, I’ve not pulled out my lovely handbag for a while. But I’ve enjoyed my jacket and know it looks good. So next year, when I can shop, I’ll definitely consider spending more in a bid to have fewer things that last well.
7. Have perspective. I mean they’re just clothes. And even as I write this it just seems so self involved and superficial. But I really think it’s OK to want to look your best and feel confident in what you wear.
8. Just go for it. Remember your beauty isn’t outward anyway.

I didn’t have a particular favourite outfit this week. But have been loving the red lip along with the bikers.  Let’s see what this week brings.

Have a great week all.

Anna x