How to dress with kids

Do you ever wake up in the morning and think that there's no point to putting on nice clothes when you're spending the day with your kids. They are messy creatures, after all. I don't know about you guys, but on the days when I don't bother spending any time on what I'm wearing, my mood plummets along with bits of my self esteem.

I know there are ways to dress when you're hanging out with your kids that is fun, functional and stylish. So, I asked one of my favourite people, my super-stylish friend Daniella, to show me how she likes to dress when she's with Frankie, her 2-year old son. Here's what she said and the pieces she wears on any given day.

Since becoming a mother I have a new appreciation for clothes that actually fit - fit in a way that would, well, please my own mother. Without going the way of the "mom jeans", pants just can't be too low or too tight (there is a lot of bending over and kneeling down and sitting cross-legged, and no one needs to see what you have going on under them). Shirts aren't too intricate or precious (kids grab things, spill things, wipe their hands on things...). And flat shoes - an absolute necessity. Even if heels are "comfortable" that won't fly on the playground. 

My mom-styles adheres to these basic principles but I try to have a lot of fun with it. I've never felt more carefree with my fashion choices and this spring/summer season is definitely making it easy. I love all the coloured denim that's out there. I say the brighter the better! I like to match it with either black and white stripes or another bright colour. A bright, patterned scarf is my favourite accessory of the season. The one above is my newest addition. I love striped shirts too. They're a great upgrade from the basic white tee. Toms shoes are so comfortable, especially in gold! I love that for every pair purchased, Toms donates a pair of shoes to a child in need. A step in the right direction!

Isn't all the colour fantastic? What about you? Do you have any go-to wardrobe pieces (or accessories) that are a must have when you're with your kids? Personally, I like a big bag that doubles as a diaper bag, easy-to-clean sunglasses (why are they always the best toy?) and stud earrings rather than anything that dangles (see previous comment about toys!).

1. Maxi Dress
2. Scarf
3.Yellow Cardigan
4. Striped shirt
5. Hat
6. Blue denim
7. Toms
8. Brogues
9. Sandals