Hat: Nordstrom | Tee: Nordstrom [go down a size] | Tote: Shopbop, Similar | Leggings: Athleta [similar], Similar, Similar | Jacket: Bloomingdales [very oversized, go down a size], Similar | Sneakers: M.Gemi, Similar

Photography by: Angie Garcia

First off, thank you all so much for your sweet birthday wishes to Maxi! It meant the world to Paul and I!

Now to the post! Ignore the title, because whether you’re a mom or a student or it’s winter/spring/summer/fall this is a look you need to at least try out.

But I called it a winter mom look, because I truly got ready in 5 minutes to shoot this. I tossed in a bit of dry shampoo, threw on my cap and threw a jacket over leggings and a stained v-neck. It’s as real life as a blog shoot gets, because it’s never “real” to frolic the streets of downtown dodging traffic with a photographer. Side note, I hate shooting downtown. Paul works downtown and I always know he’s going to look out his window at work, see me and I’m going to feel awkward/mortified/timid.

I get a lot of mamas and college students alike e-mailing me asking for looks they could wear to a playdate or the library and not feel silly in. Many times both pairs are living in leggings and tees and just want to feel like themselves, but better. You can absolutely achieve this and not spend and hour getting ready to do so. You’ve just got to be thoughtful about a few of those pieces and you’ll have 20+ ways to rework the look.

• Get a leather legging. These are by Athleta [exact not sold], but Nordstrom has some fabulous ones by Spanx and Alo as well. This is going to elevate the look of a regular legging while still giving you comfort and flexibility to do whatever errands or gym run you may need. They are pricier than your average legging of course, but I do wear these at least 2-3 times a week during the winter months. You can also throw on a loose sweater and booties for date night so you truly get your money’s worth!
• Pick up a Halogen tee. I preach these tees and I will continue to do so! These are the best v-neck tees on the market, and that I will bet on. Go down a size as they are quite loose, but these work whether you’re going to a baseball game or wearing a blazer. They are also so incredibly soft you will think they are designer. I also never have an issue washing and drying them. Many a v-neck tee goes to die in the dryer and shrivels up to a Limited Too size I only fit into when I was 8.
• Baseball Cap. Okay, not a Yankee, but I needed a gray hat….We are of course Rangers fans and our friend plays for the Mets, so maybe this is irresponsible styling?! I’m sorry! I’m sorry! But what Nordstrom sells, you know I like, so the hat is on the head…but yes, treat yourself to a cute little cap that isn’t 14 years old and from your college days.
• Major Jacket. This jacket is quite the statement and while it may not be your cup of tea, you can find one that is. Whether you grab a pearl embellished piece, a distressed jacket or something with a unique structure just have it be a little more sassy than your tried and true denim jacket. I have worn this jacket with this cotton dress and sneakers as well. It’s surprisingly easy to style even though I own nothing like this already.

What’s your fave mom/student/#IWantToBeCasualButNotLookOverTheTop look?!