As a new mom, my style has evolved immensely over the last 9 months. Before I became a mother, I always seemed baffled at the fact that some women let themselves go after having kids. Now that I’m a mom, I can completely understand why. After taking care of every need your child has all day, who has time to take care of themselves? Well, one thing that I’ve learned is that if I want to be productive during my day, I do a lot better when I’m dressed well. Today I had a lot that I wanted to accomplish so I decided to fix up a little. Nothing major. I wasn’t going anywhere. But as the saying goes, when you look good, you feel good. Here’s a look at what I wore today, which is pretty typical for me in terms of every day style. By the way, I'm really enjoying my new glasses. :) I haven't bought a pair of glasses in years!

Here are a few keys to keeping your "cool" as a mom that I've found to be helpful so far:

1. Get dressed early in the day.

This may sound strange, but I know that it's helped me. If I don't make the effort to get myself ready for the day early on, before I know it the day will have gone by and I'll be wearing sweats and a t-shirt. No bueno, moms. I mean, it's OK for some days, but for the most part, it's important to get yourself washed up, dressed up, prayed up and praised up before everything else in your day comes to grab your attention.

2. Wear what makes YOU feel good.

For me, that means bright colors, comfy jeans, cute flats (or wedges) and pretty accessories. I feel confident when I wear things like this and still am comfortable enough to keep up with my ever-growing girl. Every woman has that favorite pair of jeans or cute top that makes them feel good when they wear it. This weekend, pull those items out and wear them! Take a fun picture with your husband in your outfit and upload it to your facebook, twitter or instagram. Have fun with it!

3. Amp up a simple outfit with fun accessories

Notice how I added a floral sequin brooch to my cardigan and wore sequin Sperrys. Simple adjustments can make a big difference. Try adding a colorful or leopard print scarf to a basic long-sleeve tee and jeans outfit.

4. Smile

A smile will take you a lonnnnng way.

In closing, let's take a look at the ultimate "cool" mom from Proverbs 31, clothed in purple & fine linen. My kind of mama. ;)

Proverbs 31:10-31

10 A wife of noble character who can find? She is worth far more than rubies. 11 Her husband has full confidence in her and lacks nothing of value. 12 She brings him good, not harm, all the days of her life. 13 She selects wool and flax and works with eager hands. 14 She is like the merchant ships, bringing her food from afar. 15 She gets up while it is still night; she provides food for her family and portions for her female servants. 16 She considers a field and buys it; out of her earnings she plants a vineyard. 17 She sets about her work vigorously; her arms are strong for her tasks. 18 She sees that her trading is profitable, and her lamp does not go out at night. 19 In her hand she holds the distaff and grasps the spindle with her fingers. 20 She opens her arms to the poor and extends her hands to the needy. 21 When it snows, she has no fear for her household; for all of them are clothed in scarlet. 22 She makes coverings for her bed; she is clothed in fine linen and purple. 23 Her husband is respected at the city gate, where he takes his seat among the elders of the land. 24 She makes linen garments and sells them, and supplies the merchants with sashes. 25 She is clothed with strength and dignity; she can laugh at the days to come. 26 She speaks with wisdom, and faithful instruction is on her tongue. 27 She watches over the affairs of her household and does not eat the bread of idleness. 28 Her children arise and call her blessed; her husband also, and he praises her: 29 “Many women do noble things, but you surpass them all.” 30 Charm is deceptive, and beauty is fleeting; but a woman who fears the LORD is to be praised. 31 Honor her for all that her hands have done, and let her works bring her praise at the city gate.

Tell me, how do you keep your cool as a mom? What can we glean from the Proverbs 31 woman's daily practices & how can we apply her attributes to our daily lives today?

Emonne Markland

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