Thrilled to be featuring my friend Amy of This Little Miggy today for our Secrets of Stylish Moms series. Amy writes on her blog about family, home renovations, special needs, her artwork and the occasional DIY. Since the birth of daughter with Limb Reduction Complex (you can read more about Lamp’s story here), Amy has become a voice for families with special needs children with her incredible series called The Special Needs Spotlight. Amy is a friend of mine from college! She’s always had an innate sense of style since I’ve known her (makes her own clothes!) and incredible taste in music too. Here’s what she says about her best defense against postpartum depression and what two pieces should be wardrobe staples for new moms…

How would you describe your personal style?

In general I never like to look too put together–I usually like to mix high and low looks. For example, I can never wear nice slacks with a nice shirt…but a nice shirt with ripped jeans or a basic jeans and t-shirt outfit with some gold dangly earrings? I love that. Mixing high and low feels very me. When I was younger I definitely tried to dress a little more ‘funky’ or unique. But the older I’ve gotten the more I’m drawn to a classic and even basic looks–I do a lot of denim, navy, grey, white, black, blush, and nudes. But like I said, I do like to throw in a little something special or something with a twist. These denim culottes are my current summer favorite and while they’re a basic denim, I think the pants themselves are an interesting shape and cut. (ps. I am LOVING high waisted everything!)

As a mom one of my best defenses against postpartum depression from my first baby goes back to getting dressed and ready in the morning. So while my style these days is rather simple and comfort focused, it’s still important for me to feel put together and to look polished.

What is one favorite piece in your wardrobe that is both practical for a mother and stylish?

I recently made a simple shift dress and I love it so much! It’s roomy and moves well, but at the same time I feel cute and stylish too.

Also, JUMPSUITS. I mean there are styles for just about every taste out there and again you put one thing on and you’re done! Plus you never have to worry about your t-shirt riding up or pants being too low when you bend over, change a diaper, or pick up your tantrum-ing toddler off the floor of Target. Jumpsuits for all the moms!

What is something you do for yourself everyday?

Nap time/quiet time is my coveted sanity saver. Nine years strong and I still insist on a quiet time for my other kids when the current baby naps (excepting school and other activities). I usually spend this time having a lunch I enjoy and doing something purely indulgent and lazy like watching whatever new show I’m into or catching up on Jimmy Fallon clips on line. I really rely on this break everyday. And frankly my kids benefit from it as well! When they’re “forced” to play in their room for an hour it’s amazing how imaginative + creative they suddenly get. So much so, they often forget to come out after the time is up and just keep playing! 

Well you have to have at least 1-2 pairs of ‘the perfect jeans’ right? I’ve been really pleased with The Gap lately…I never used to buy their jeans because the fit just wasn’t right for me, but my last couple of “go-to” jeans have been Gap. Otherwise I always dig J. Crew. Great leather flats or sandals, a simple button down, a handful of soft and well fitted t-shirts (I like a good v-neck or scoop neck) and for layering I almost always opt for a long chunky cardigan like my favorite from Everlane.

What kind of fashion advice do you have for postpartum, in-between sizes new moms?

This is a great day and age to be in-between sizes! First, lets give a giant round of applause for whoever decided to bring back sweats in a slimmer more dressy cut that we can actually wear as pants and not be perceived as giving up on life! I guess I’m supposed to call them “joggers” but whatever. I’ve gotten two pair at Target and love them. Also, you can get other elastic waist pants in other fabrics with a similar cut. You guys, this is good news for everyone! Also, cocoon shape dresses and baggy shirts if you’re feeling self conscious about your belly.

There are so many great options out there for every stage of postpartum dressing. Either way, find those comfy, roomy clothes that you feel good in and then try not to stress about it too much. Think about how wonderful your body is for bring a new life into the world and celebrate that amazing body with kind and loving thoughts because it really is AMAZING.

A great red lipstick is all you need to trick people into looking “put together”.  My favorites are Rosa from Inside Out Cosmetics and Sephora’s It Girl.

More favorites…