Comfortable Style - Is It Possible?

Bombshell reader Christine emailed me last week asking for some advice on how to put together outfits that are as comfortable and easy as they are stylish.  Christine is headed back to work after being on maternity leave with her two boys and wants to look great but still feel comfortable enough to do all the things a mom has to do. She wondered if this was possible...yep!  It sure is.

I've heard from a lot of my friends with children that once you have a baby, your priorities shift (as they should!) and life becomes a juggling act - with baby's needs coming first at all times.  But what a lot of women with demanding lives don't always realize is that time invested in making yourself feel good pays off in the long run.  It can be easy to forget the restorative power of a great outfit! 

So with that in mind, here are three outfits built on the same basic principles:

1. Durable Knits- Choose clothes that are a blend of cotton and polyester.  Polyester is not as scary as it once was.  Blends today can be soft on the skin, and really easy to launder.  
2. Wear Color- I know it can be tempting to fall into the mental trap that black is easy to wear.  Sure, it can be.  But it can also be dull and life-sapping.  When you've had no sleep, throw on a rich shade of pink or yellow, green or purple to detract attention from the circles under your eyes.
3. Built-in Embellishment - Cut down on the time it takes to accessorize an outfit by choosing clothes that have built-in embellishment: ruching or a twist-neck top; a jeweled neckline or a great print can all go add instant polish with no extra effort. 

Just as polyester isn't what it used to be, so too has ponte knit evolved.  Comfortable as sweatpants, but polished enough for the office, especially when paired with a low heeled pump and a lacey top. 

Liana Lace Tunic, Kiyonna;  Ponte Knit Classic Trousers, Lane Bryant; Sabrina Sueded Button Pump, Avenue

There's something inherently crisp about the navy and red color combination.  The bow pattern on this A-line skirt is fun but understated, especially when paired with a simple tee shirt and metallic flats.

Bows and Whistles Skirt - eShakti; Merona Plus-Size Long-Sleeve Crew Neck Tee in Cayenne, Target; Rebecca Leather Ballet Flat, Jessica London

I own this dress in a light cameo blue, and it's pretty much impervious to stains. Mixing it with a pretty purple cardigan seems creative adds a layer of warmth & a dose of extra color. Flat knee high boots are stylish but easy to run around in.

Nicolette Cardigan, Sealed with a Kiss; Classic V-neck Dress in Gray, Sealed with a Kiss; Sota Bread Tall Boot, Jessica London

And since everyone has to get dressed on the weekends, here's a cute option for running errands and playing with baby - a soft, cozy sweater and a pair of really comfortable jeans.  This outfit could work for casual Friday, too, if your office goes in for that.

My friend, Stephanie, is a jeans expert and she assures me that this pair from DKNY is the best out there.  I like it paired with a soft pullover and a pair of animal print ballet flats.

Criss Cross Pullover Sweater, Avenue; Soho Crosshatch Bootcut Jean by DKNY, Lane Bryant; Animal Print Ballet Flats, Lane Bryant