Keeping Fashion in the Family
Story and photography by Nichole A. Cavallaro
A trend I’ve seen on the rise since the spread of social media is the Mommy-and-Me style.
I think dressing almost identically to your little one (LO), or at least matching closely, can be hit-or-miss with some women. But, for me, it’s a style move that incorporates a lifestyle aspect.
Let’s face it: for those of us who have children — whether our own child or part of a blended family — they’re incorporated into our lifestyle. In each area of our life, they’re considered our decision-making staple.
Children themselves are blank canvases, on which we can teach valuable life skills and loving moments.
The basic skill of dressing yourself is taught at a young age. The fun part comes when we choose their clothing and dress them according to what we, as adults, feel is appropriate. The even better part comes when they take an interest in what they’re wearing. It can be anything from frilly tassels to the next Minecraft tee. Whatever it is, it’s their first attempt at styling themselves; it’s a fun moment of independence to be a part of and witness.
When I scroll through Instagram and see Mommy-and-Me posts on fashion bloggers’ feeds, I can’t help but notice something: not only are the outfits charming, but the reality of being a working parent is right there. A mother has literally combined her parenting role with her full-time blogger job. A lot of work goes into being a professional blogger — achieving wonderful images, product reviews, etc. It’s quite extensive!
My LO just started showing an interest in what she’s wearing. I can’t tell you how many times we’ve gone to Target or DestinyUSA to shop for clothes and she immediately protested. And that’s OK. What five-year-old cares about how they look?
However, when she hit the age of six, she asked, “Can I get some outfits?”
I stood there in the Target cat food aisle, so proud.
“Of course you can! Let’s just get two,” I responded.
And so began the browsing, matching skirts to tops, seeing the sizes, seeing the prices (yes, educating your child about cost is important, in my opinion) and putting pieces together.
Style is something I have fun with, so I thought about what I own that might match. Taking mental inventory in my mind of what’s in my closet, I realized, “No, I don’t have ruffles or anything with hearts on them. Nor do I have leggings with glitter.”
Then, it dawned on me. I didn’t need to be my LO’s twin; finding colors within the same family was the key! It’s all about family, right?
Believe it or not, there are similar rompers and dresses resembling that of a girlish mood: ruffles, flower prints, tiny cats, bows, eyelets, etc. If you have boys, who doesn’t love gingham, plaids, stripes and quality cotton?
Personally, I’ve always been obsessed with NASA. I first saw it in the men’s section, as spaceships and science seemed to be directed toward boys. Now, NASA is everywhere, as a graphic in the boys and girls departments and even in Coach’s designer line. That’s just one example of style for both your boys and girls… and adults!
I’m not saying go out and see what you can find to bring you back to kindergarten. Whatever you are able to get, make sure you are happy and comfortable in it. SWM
Nichole A. Cavallaro is a Syracuse-based lifestyle blogger. Read more of her work at eneverythingnice.blogspot.com.
