EVERY DAY STYLING PART TWO: THE SCHOOL PICK UP

For some of you on school pick up duty, it may be a little frustrating to find something to wear.

I work with so many mothers and it comes as no surprise that they continuously bring up this wardrobe challenge.

Now every one is different, some of you will pick the kids up straight from work or the gym but this blog is targeted to the mothers who are coming from home and have access to their wardrobes pre pick-up.

Before you tell me you have no time, know that I am a mother of four and a stepmother of four and even before I was a personal stylist, I always made the time to put a little thought into my outfit.

Why?

For me – not for other parents which in many cases is the assumption.

Aim to look casual yet presentable when you arrive at the school grounds or the parking area. There is also a good chance that you might strike up a conversation with a teacher or other parents which generally means that you need to get of the car – preferably without your Peter Alexander pyjamas.

 

Now I’m not talking cocktail attire nor do you have to swap your flats for heels before you get out of the car but sloppy, lazy attire will just not do.

 

You name it I’ve seen it: coats over pyjama pants, leggings as regular pants, super short skirts and tracksuits that are really only made for sweat rather than school.

Of course, attire varies from school to school and suburb but I’ve put together a series of style guidelines and outfits for your consideration with an Autumn/Winter vibe:

1. Celebrate casual – clean, tailored denim with a plain t-shirt and accessory (necklace or bangle) or a casual dress layered over tights and a cotton long sleeve top can have you looking classic yet comfortable.

 

2. Gym attire is okay if you’re coming/going to gym although I’m not an advocate for it as regular daywear particularly when you can wear alternative styles including leggings, a dress and long cardigan offer similar flexible comfort but are a whole lot more stylish.

3. In terms of heels – keep them casual. Low heeled boots, wedges or a small-heeled shoe are a better option than stilettos which are not really appropriate for the school pick up or the drive/walk to get there.

4. Now this guideline is always controversial. While you may have a beautiful body and love a sexy look, I would reserve cleavage and anything mid-thigh for outside the school grounds. If anything, remember you’ll be surrounded by young children and this is not the best time to showcase your look.

5. On a beauty note –style your hair effortlessly by brushing it through, tying it back or a blow-dry. Freshen your face and a spray of perfume. If you have the time, apply a day make-up look or a touch of tinted BB cream, a light lip colour and an eyelash curl.

You’ll be amazed how good you feel and the affect you will have on others – you will naturally inspire them to also look after themselves.

On a side note, your daily routine to get ready should be no longer than 30 minutes – shower included. This should be your aim each morning so as you go about your day, you will only need quick touch ups – say 10 to 15 minutes for other every day tasks like grocery shopping or the school pick up.

Of course – an organised wardrobe with lots of pieces that fit you and that you love will aid you tremendously.

While I haven’t touched on the many dads that also do the pickup, similar rules apply: opt for casual and effortless looks.

However, the men’s version of the cleavage mid-thigh guideline relates to their body shape. Men generally carry weight in the tummy area, so no tight singlets or tees – actually no singlets in general. A crisp t-shirt teamed with clean denim or tailored shorts and loafers will give all the other mothers husband style-envy.

So now it’s over to you. What do you wear to the school pick up and do you care? Do you have a signature school look? Let’s get a conversation going!

Love Cindy xx