4 Trends That Are “Cool Girl” Approved and Could Be Your Mom Uniform
When Fashion Finally Favors Moms
The earlier me, who thought raising a stubborn pup qualified as mom training, lived in tight denim. Body‑skimming dresses were also on rotation, and shoes? All about the look (comfort was strictly optional).
Motherhood followed, and life took on a new shape. Looking put together still mattered to me, but comfort had shifted from a nice-to-have to a joyful, non-negotiable. That’s when I began narrowing down: kinder fabrics, forgiving silhouettes, soft waistbands, shoes that were stylish AND comfortable.
Somewhere in that edit, I looked up and realized that the “cool girl’s” uniform and mine were suspiciously similar. Jennifer Lawrence, Gigi Hadid, every downtown It‑mom was suddenly wearing the same things. For once, fashion and real life are walking in step, and I’m here for it.
Elevated comfort isn’t just acceptable; it’s trending. So here's how to stay cool amidst a New York heat wave, and look effortlessly put together - no zippers or buttons required.
1. The Pants That Can Handle Preschool Drop‑Off and a Patio Dinner
Real‑life test: Can I crouch to tie a toddler’s shoe, and then sit pretty with a spritz? Yes, yes I can.
Think of your favorite lounge pants, now imagine them in crisp cotton poplin with a drawstring and a roomy leg. The brands call it the “All Day Pant”, and I must agree.
Try it: White is the way to go. If that’s not your thing, try muted neutrals, soft stripes, or even a barely-there blush. Go for a slightly longer inseam that skims your sandal. Add a structured tote to balance the softness (but you really don’t have to).
2. Boxer Shorts in Daylight
Imagine this: It’s 100 degrees in New York, and I’m carrying an extra 33 pounds in the form of a very pregnant belly. In theory, all I could wear were my husband’s XL shorts. In practice? I didn’t have to. Because, blessedly, boxer shorts were suddenly fashionable and everywhere.
Reality: I was lured out of the AC by a very dramatic toddler plea.
Looks like: I got dressed with intention.
Try it: silk for an elevated feel, striped, or this year’s update - Gingham. Buy true to size as they’re already designed with comfort in mind. Add a ribbed tank or relaxed button-down. Slide into a minimalist flip-flop.
3. Graphic tees, Baby tees and 90’s tanks
Right now, I’m rotating between graphic tees (think: the softness of a sleep shirt with the personality of a conversation starter), baby tees if the mood is right, and fitted tanks with a subtle ’90s edge - like something you’d wear with glossy lips and no plans.
4. Minimalist Flip-Flops and Jelly Sandals (Yes, Really)
Thong sandals, but make them leather. Or jellies. I don’t know about you, but where I grew up, we were all in jelly sandals in sixth grade. So yes, seeing them resurface gave me mixed feelings - but I gave it a go. Conclusion: they’re kind of cute. For some reason, I’m loving every red version I’ve seen. They add a cool, unexpected kick to any outfit.
Fit notes: Skip the thick foam platforms unless you’re doing irony on purpose.
The Beauty of Right Now
Fashion’s pendulum will swing back to discomfort soon enough. But for now? We’re living in a glitch in the matrix where comfort = chic, and I, for one, am not asking questions.
Your turn: What secretly comfortable thing are you wearing on repeat this summer? Drop it in the replies! I’m all ears for stylish shortcuts.
I got myself black leather flip flops this summer - even little upgrades like that make an outfit more chic!