shorts….for casual moms – my tricks to not ‘look’ like a mom

Summer is here and shorts season is upon us. Many places across the country have hot, sticky, humid temperatures and that leaves not many options but to wear shorts. That being said, have you heard the talk about ‘mom shorts’? I hope to shed some light on this topic today and share a few pointers to help you get out of the ‘mom shorts’ rutt.

Let’s start this off right though. I am not put together every day. FAR from that. Most days you’ll find me in my work out shorts from the morning’s run. However, I do need to get on with my day and run errands or bring the girls somewhere…5 out of the 7 days a week most times. I’ve found some tricks that work for me and hope they can help you out too!

First, wear shorts that are not only comfortable, but shorts that accentuate the positives. If you have some nice muscles, don’t wear long, bermuda shorts. Show off those legs momma! I like to stick around the 4-5″ inseam shorts because going shorter than that is uncomfortable. No one wants to see butt cheeks when we bend down to pick up a little one. I find I can still be active with my kiddos at this length.

shirt from kohl’s // birks from kohl’s // shorts from kohl’s // necklace from maurice’s // bracelets from april soderstrom

Add some jewelry to your outfit to take it from mom mode to put together mom mode. Isn’t it crazy what the extra couple seconds can make you feel like? I always have earrings in…that’s my one piece of jewelry I can’t leave home without. Sometimes I feel the fun earrings take away from my tired looking face lol!! Add a necklace too to give it a little extra.

Add some color too. Whether it’s jewelry or shoes or other accessories. It shows that you thought it out and when you are running around and see the pops of color, it’ll make you smile. Try it, I dare you!

shirt from kohl’s // shoes from juil // shorts from kohl’s // necklace from ny & co // bracelets from april soderstrom

Skip the bunchy, elastic waist band. While yes, they might be comfortable, they are bunching in areas you don’t want things to bunch and squeezing in the same. Grab the flattering waist bands that don’t bunch at all but give a good look. The ones shows above add a great accent to the normal short. Aren’t your eyes drawn to the scalloped edge? I LOVE that about these. Plus, the material on these Lauren Conrad shorts are so lightweight and these can go with anything. I am tempted to get them in some of the other colors they offer!

Find what works and stick with what works. Find the length, the color, the material…and then only shop for that. Everyone needs a good jean/denim short. I picked up this great pair from Kohl’s, the Jennifer Lopez Cuffed Jean Shorts and I love them. I grabbed some last year and since have gone down in size…so I just picked up another pair. I’m wearing them above.  They are easy, casual…but easy to dress up too. I’m obviously showing them in super casual mode.

Anyways – what tips do you have for me now? I’d love to hear what makes you tick when you are picking out the outfits that make you feel like you can conquer the world!