Cynthia Rowley Baby Set Long Sleeve Shirt, Leggins, & Romper

Winter Proof Mom Uniform

I have really struggled with finding time to get myself together in the mornings, especially after having Margot. It always feels rushed, getting ready while they're both already awake, trying to navigate something to wear while also thinking of all the different things we have that day, and what I can wear that will work for all of it. So, I have been working to try and create a simple winter wardrobe/uniform that I don't need to think about, is comfortable, yet feels put together so I can start and end my day right. I wear combinations of these pieces, all day, every day, and I feel great whether it's at preschool drop off, running errands, or playing outside in the snow for hours.

I have realized it's all about the bases. Every single morning I put on a pair of black/olive green/navy blue leggings, a slim long sleeve shirt, cozy socks, and vest. As much as I love my cozy sweaters, I have found them to be more and more annoying while we are inside. They feel bulky, and I don't feel like I can be as productive in them. Also, a lot of them are hard to wash/dry clean only and if you have two toddlers, you know you are washing your clothes… daily. Not many things can be worn more than one day that aren't covered in food or dirt or… blood… Everything I wear I need to be able to wash over, and over, and over again and still look crisp.

So anyways, I thought I would put this together in case you're also struggling with a similar situation.

1. Ultra Slim Down Vest - I have two, one in cream and one in black - both from Uniqlo - and go with everything. They wash amazing, are super lightweight, but warm. I wear under my coats and jackets for a warmer layer in place of a bulky sweater.

2. Long Sleeve Ribbed Shirt - I have in three colors from Everlane and constantly switch out. They keep their stretch even after all the washes, and I have yet to find a better version.

3. Camel Overcoat - For when I want to "dress up" this weekday uniform. It instantly makes it feel more polished. Mine is super old from Zara - here's a similar version.

4. Cashmere Beanie - Mine is again, old, and no longer available from And Other Stories - but very similar version here from Naadam.

5. Lululemon Align Leggings - the classics and my favorites. For colder days I wear my wool version!

6. Bombas wool socks for cold/days we're outside, and my favorite Target version in between.

7. I bought these Doc Maartens when I was pregnant with Harrison, and bopping all around Boston from job site to job site. I wanted to still look professional, but also, comfort was key, and I needed them to have some traction for the snow at 8-9 months pregnant. They are going on their 4th winter, and still amazing. It doesn't look like they make the crocodile texture anymore, but here's the smooth leather version.

8. Not everyone's cup of tea, but I'm obsessed with this Cordova silver metallic ski jacket that I was lucky enough to snag as an early birthday present. It takes these everyday looks up a notch ;)

9. Another "pregnant with Harrison" purchase, I bought these Sorel snow boots after falling on ice while pregnant... Super warm, comfortable, and most importantly lightweight. I don't feel like I'm in clunky snowboots.

10. The warmest parka I've ever owned. Long enough to keep you super warm, but still easy to move around in and not bulky to drive in. I've had mine for going on 5 winters now, and still holding up great.

11. Hestra leather gloves - keep me warm outside in the snow with the kids, but also have the polish for when I'm out and about.

12. Studio Noos Chunky Teddy Mom Bag - the winter carry-all. I throw EVERYTHING in it. Machine washable. Enough said.

Toddler Outdoor Essentials

One thing I have learned in my four winters of being a mom, is that you will be outside. All the time. So it's best to have ALL the gear, for ALL the weather.

If your toddler(s) are anything like mine (well, Harrison for now…) you probably spend 90% of your days outdoors. I wanted to share some of our favorite pieces, by weather type, that will keep everyone adorable, happyy, and warm/dry this fall and winter.

Snow & Freezing Cold Temps

1. Kuling Teddy hat - The only style hat I trust to keep little heads warm for hours outside

2. Reima snowsuit - This suit kept Harrison warm and dry all. day. long. in freezing cold temps AND on wet snow days, sitting in the snow for hours. Unbeatable! Also, runs big so you can get atleast 2 seasons out of it.

5. Liewood neck warmer - Scarves feel just completely impractical with kids, and love how cozy and warm this keeps them, and can be worn with snow suits, or dressed up a bit with an overcoat

6. Sorel snowboots - Warmest with easy pull on and tighten ability. All the wins. With wool socks, of course.

7. Wool mittens- On their own, or layered with fleece lined shell mittens on colder/wetter days.

15/16. Wool base layers - You know I will sing the praises of Polarn O. Pyret forever, and their base layers are essential for winter. We wear under snow gear, rain gear on colder days, and just on its own around the house. Also, LOVE Ella's Tubes — but they can be hard to find!

Dressed Up

3. Zimmerman Milo boot

4. This will be our first season with a more formal coat for Harry, and I fell in love with the Tocoto Vintage version, but couldn't justify the cost for something I know he won't wear super often. I ended up finding this more cost effective version.

8. James Street Co Port Beanie

Rainy Days

9. Classic rain jacket - Definitely for more mild/rainy days vs. cold, but layered with wool base layers and a lightweight down jacket underneath you're golden.

10. Fleece lined rain pants - Would this even be a blog post of mine if i don't recommend these golden pants?

13. Fleece lined rain mittens

14. Hunter original rain boots

Dry Winter Day

11. We wear our Patagonia vest from early fall into late spring. Layered or alone, it's an essential part of our cold weather wardrobe. We sized up and are on our second season.

12. Reversible Patagonia jacket - Great for every day errands and running around in the cold. Again, size up to get another season out of!

Dressed Up

1. Donsje Amsterdam jacket

2. Zimmerman Greta t-straps

3. HVID wool bonnets

Snow & Freezing Cold Temps

4. Mini A Ture BabyWen Puffer Anorek

6. Konges Slojd mittens

8. Binibamba sheepskin stroller liner

11. Reima Puhuri Snowsuit — after buying one of these for Harry last year, I will never buy another snowsuit. The warmest, comfiest, most waterproof, easiest to put on, and most importantly super durable. I had optimistic views that her 3-6 month Patagonia baby bunting would work again this year, but after a few playground visits in the freezing cold, it's not going to cut it. She of course wants to get into things, and play, and it's just not durable enough for an active toddler, plus it's definitely on the smaller side, especially since she's now 15 months… so it doesn't give her the flexibility to move freely at all. I love them for itty bitty babies, but I like something more durable and free once they're mobile.

12. Ella's Wool tubes - worn on their own, or layered under snow suits or rain pants, and last multiple seasons because of sizing and fit!

14. Skoki balaclava

15. Wool sweaters - Margot has hand me downs of Harrys from Misha and Puff, as well as some vintage irish wool fisherman sweaters that you just can't beat.

16. The North Face snow boots

Rainy Days

9. Polarn O Pyret rain pants - definitely run generous! I would buy the pink if I was buying new for Margot, but since they hold up so well, she is currently wearing navy hand me downs of Harrys in the 6-12 month size. I love layering these over basically everything when they're not in snow suits - it keeps clothes clean and lets them fall/crawl and enjoy their time outside without getting wet/damp/cold.

10. Bisgaard rain boots

Dry Mild Winter Day

5. UGG Kids boots

7. Liewood Diana vest - also love layered under jackets/snowsuits for extra cold days!

This post contains some affiliate links. I make a small commission from purchases via these links, but these products are being shared on my own accord. These are not sponsored products. I only share what I love!

Heading to School for Harrison

And somehow, here we are. Harrison starts school three weeks from today. And while I cannot believe we are already at this stage, I'm really so excited for him. He's been asking about it for months, and I know he's going to do so so well and really love being around new friends and exploring his new space. It's the start of a new chapter for him and I am so happy I got to be there all day everyday for the past 3.5 years of his little life. It's a new chapter for us all, but I think we're ready.

I wanted to share some things we've rounded up over the past couple weeks to prepare for the coming months of both school and colder weather. I'm sure you will notice quite a few things.. what can I say, we like what we like ;) This round up leans a little more outdoor/rugged because.. it's Harry we're talking about, and of course we chose a preschool that has outdoor play everyday no matter rain/shine/snow. I was sure to try on all his outerwear and gear and am adding a few pieces to our ever growing outdoor collection. I also ordered a Preschool Label Pack from Mabels Labels to keep track of everything and make sure it all comes back at the end of the day. Or atleast we'll try… !

So here it is. As always happy to chat through our experiences/sizing!

Baby Girl + Toddler Boy | Spring/Summer Capsule Wardrobes

In true New England style, it seems that we will soon be going straight from winter into summer, and with April somehow already here — I wanted to round up some favorite pieces I've picked up for Margot & Harry as we head into the warmer weather. As I have said before, it seems each season I buy them less and less and really hone in on what they wear daily with a few special outfits. Fingers crossed we will be able to actually wear these special outfits this summer….!

baby girl

For Margot, I like keeping her styles very simple. She's starting to be on the move, so onesies and rompers are easiest (and cutest in my opinion…) — as always I had to include some pretty florals and delicate prints. I have, and think I will keep it to, just one pair of sandals for her. I swear by the Salt Water Sandals because you can dress them up or down, and they can be completely submerged in water so they're perfect for the pool and beach.

Quarantine Mom Capsule - House Dress Edition

It's been a very, very long quarantine, and while there is a light at the end of the tunnel with this vaccine — I fear we are still many months away from leaving the house in any sort of normal capacity.

I feel like I spent the majority of the last year pregnant and in flowy dresses. I felt really great pregnant with Margot, and feel it was a lot easier to be pregnant winter into summer than summer into winter as I was with Harry. But, postpartum has been a completely different story. Since we don't leave the house/our street at all I have gotten very comfortable in joggers and leggings — and while I do try and jazz them up as best I can, I am SO. OVER. IT.

A few nights ago I had a closet meltdown — what I do have in there for winter I'm not comfortable wearing without losing more baby weight (tight, high-waisted jeans and shorter tops/sweaters..) — and what is flattering is not comfortable home all day playing with the kids (and covered in spit up 98% of the time..)

So, I needed a refresh, and thought I'd share some lounge/home dresses I already have, some I have on the way, and others I love — to inspire or freshen up your quarantine closet. I plan on layering long sleeves underneath, and sweaters over on cold days — and of course I will still be found in jogger/sweaters/snowpants when we're playing outside, BUT I think these couple pieces will really put the pep I truly need back in my step.

My requirements: must be machine washable (which I consider everything except dry clean only — I just use the delicate/hand wash setting on our washer), comfy, but also flattering and makes me feel good! Most time paired with thick wool socks or slippers, because balance… The majority of these are also nursing friendly! I also love that all of these options, while worn inside for the most part now, are great transition dresses into spring and summer so they'll get a ton of wear.

Margot's Newborn Capsule

I've often asked about Margot's everyday newborn clothes, so figured I would put it here, so it all lives in one easy to find place.

It's true what they say about dressing girls, it is waaaaaay too much fun. Little boys are fun too, of course, but there is something so special about the little girls clothes. I had a few ideas on how I wanted to dress my girl if we had one, but held off on ordering anything out of sheer superstition. Plus, you always dress them a little different once you meet them. In all honesty, I placed my first "girl" order in the recovery room after Margot was born, and don't think I've stopped ordering since (sorry, Nick…)

Margot doesn't have a lot of pieces (probably 1/4 of what Harry had as a newborn..) as I'm sure you notice I mix and match a lottttttt within the assortment of outfits she has. But the pieces she does have, I love each and every one. There are a few tried and true brands and shops that are my go-tos, so I'll link those with the specific products and shops from where I found the pieces. Even though we don't leave the house (thanks, COVID), I love dressing her in these comfy, cute pieces.

Harry's Fall Wardrobe -- 2.5 Years

I have started to gather and source pieces for Harry's fall wardrobe, and in true 2020 fashion, it looks a lot different than last year. I have kept everything casual and comfy, since we won't really be leaving the house beside the occasional outdoor adventure. He's a pretty casual guy, and I got a few fun pieces for outerwear to lively up his simple everyday pieces.

Unfortunately, H didn't fit into most of his pieces from last fall/winter, besides his LL Bean down jacket, Patagonia snow suit, and a couple sweatshirts. He needed new boots as well - so I took this as an opportunity to revamp his little closet a little bit. As each season goes on, I find myself buying less and less quantity of items. He doesn't need 20 shirts, since I do laundry everyday anyways. This gives me more flexibility to buy quality items from small shops and brands.

1. Fin & Vince - Colorblock Jacket — This was my splurge for the Fall, but thought it would really be worn to death, along with his vintage Levi's denim jacket. This piece is so so cute, and really goes with everything else in his closet.

2. Konges Welly Boots — After a year and a half, H finally outgrew his Hunter boots, and I decided to try a different pair when I saw Wee Mondine put these adorable boots online. We love love the Hunter but thought these could be fun for a different look from the past years!

3. Les Gamins Sweatshirt(s!) — And long sleeves! I swear by Les Gamins, and absolutely love all their pieces. Quality staples for everyday, and in amazing colors. I bought Harry one sweatshirt last year that he lived in, so ordered three more from the newest fall collection, along with a few long sleeves. The quality is unbeatable wash after wash, and they're just so. cute.

4. James Street Co Port Hat — Still waiting for this one to come back in stock, but after two seasons of our Carhartt hats looking like junk after pilling and wear (acrylic…), I am going to go with this Instagram loved (+ 100% wool) favorite.

5. Overalls — As if you didn't see this one coming… I've sourced some great flannel and fleece lined overalls for H for the fall/winter, but am also excited to get him in a pair of very special 125th birthday vintage inspired overalls!

6. Patagonia Vest — Another item outgrown, replacing Harry's vest with this retro one from Patagonia I have loved for so long.

7. Les Gamins & Eadaie Ribbed Leggings - As cute as they are comfy, our two favorite tried & true brands for ribbed leggings. Eadaie doesn't have any available on their site now, but will have more coming for fall!

8. Flannel shirt — I tried to find a vintage flannel, but was having a hard time with sizing since I'm doing everything online now and it was too much of a gamble. So, went with Patagonia's Fjord Flannel.

Summer Pregnancy Style

When I was first pregnant with Harry, I had big plans. I had adorable maternity outfits pinned and planned, and then realized a) we live in Boston, where winter begins in October and b) I was going to be at my largest in the dead of winter. I made some mistakes — like I kept cutting my hair really short… and also ended up gaining more weight than I should have and was just over any sort of "style". I was in maternity jeans I hated everyday, and uggs, and large sweaters. I hated it.

This time around, I'm pregnant at a totally different time of year - so I luckily got to have a fresh start with my wardrobe. I wanted to share some tips and things I learned from last time to this time, in case another soon-to-be-mom out there is also feeling a bit lost, especially if she considered herself pretty fashion savvy prior to becoming pregnant.

For starters, it DEFINITELY helps that I'm pregnant mainly in the summer — throwing on a dress beats jeans/sweaters/socks/boots/parka any.day. But at the same time, everything needs to be comfortable, and easy — since I'm chasing around a toddler 95% of the day and we're in and out of the house playing.

But anyways, here's what I've been loving this pregnancy (due August 13th):

Rent the Runway

I re-joined RTR (fun fact: I worked in marketing at the HQ when we lived in New York) and it is a GAME changer. Their maternity selection is incredible, and you can try out more expensive brands that you would otherwise shy away from — especially for maternity that you'll only wear for a couple months if that. I am subscribed to the Unlimited membership, and I personally think it's worth every penny. I usually swap out every week, and have had amazing picks of dresses and jumpsuits that I am living in. Some of my favorite rentals so far:

Slip-on Sneakers & Birkenstocks

Thanks to Stephanie Trotta, I finally found the perfect summer sneaker that I have been longing for. I am constantly in and out of the house grabbing drinks and snacks and this toy and that — and since we have a very strict no shoe policy, I was going nuts lacing and unlacing my sneakers. When I'm not in those, I'm in my trusty Birkenstocks. I also just ordered a pair of Freedom Moses which I'm hoping can replace my lame flip flops for when our deck turns into a water park (every afternoon…).

Headbands

Before this pregnancy, I wasn't a jumpsuit OR headband girl, but… here we are! I can't get enough Lele Sadoughi headbands.

Harry's Fall Wardrobe -- 18 Months

I feel like every year around this time, everyone starts to feel the serious itch for fall. Yet, the days are getting seemingly hotter, and we all know that the real fall weather is atleast a good month away.

And yet, here we are planning for the next season. I hate to wish the days away, and it's on my list to not do it so much, especially now with Harry, I know I'm going to look back on these seasons and wonder how they're gone. But, I'm only human and I'm sick of the heat and overly excited for cooler days and cozy nights and sweaters.

Over the past year + some odd months of buying Harry's clothes, I have found myself buying him less and less. In the early days he had hundreds of onesies and clothes, but as the months went on they have trickled off. I kept note of the quality brands and what I actually liked putting on him/what he seemed most comfortable in/made for easy changes, and what did not. As he continues to grow, I know myself and that I do laundry daily regardless, and I find it hard to find things that I love for him, so spending money on a ton of cheap/quick things for him is pointless.. So, I invest in a few pieces, wash them often (as I would do anyways..) and call it a day. It's interesting to see how each age's storage bin in our basement gets smaller as time goes on.

Anyways, here's what's up for Harry's fall wardrobe this year — as usual it's centered around vintage overalls and denim with some casual, comfy tops…!

Vintage denim & corduroy: overalls, jacket & jeans

All from Dempsey & Griffin, of course — I love the ease, comfort and classic look of denim, and as well all know, vintage is better — better quality, more sustainable than purchasing new, and great pieces to pass down. A win-win-win. Every top I picked for Harry's fall wardrobe can be paired with denim & corduroy overalls and pants. I never buy outfits, but more just keep everything in a similar tone so it can be endless mixing — also makes packing for weekend trips super easy when everything goes together.

Waffle tops

I ordered Harry's in "spice" from Fin & Vince, their quality is unbeatable and wash beautifully.

Baseball hats

I rotate between our favorite from Pulp Co., and a vintage Red Sox hat that was my brother's from the 80's, for the fall I picked up a more seasonal color blocked option.

Pullovers

Soft, easy, versatile. I picked up Harry's fleece pullover from Fin & Vince in the adorable oatmeal/camel stripe.

Baseball tee

So adorable & classic — and on super sale from Old Navy! You can also find second hand/vintage very easily.

Wellies

I picked up Harry's Hunters second hand on Marketplace, and they're in great condition — definitely an easy gateway second hand if you're nervous about clothes. Hopefully he doesn't grow out of them too quick, but even if he does I got them for a great price and I will keep for (hopefully) potential future babes.

High tops

Harry's first pair of Converse were the cutest little teeny tiny things ever, so I'm so glad I finally got around to getting him another pair for the fall. I opted for black because he's the messiest and I think they look so cute the more worn in they get.

Cotton beanie

I love this 100% cotton beanie in Milk from Little Urban Apparel.

Mittens

These adorable alpaca mittens in terra-cotta are on sale from Fin & Vince and are the perfect fall/winter transitional mitten before it gets too too cold here in New England.

Modern Mom Jeans | Fall Essentials

As I've grown older, I have come to really learn and appreciate what works best for my body type and lifestyle. After becoming a mom, things shifted (haaaa...) but my wardrobe has stayed pretty consistent. These new mom days, it's important for my daily wardrobe rotation to be easy, quick, yet look and feel put together day in and day out. For the most part, my days are spent at home in joggers/tee shirts/cardigans — but it's nice to know all I have to do is throw on a polished coat or loafers and I'll look and feel acceptable to run errands.

The inspiration for my daily style can be characterized as classic, simple, natural and clean.

Each season, I take a good hard look at my closet, and rid of anything I haven't worn (there's always those items) that previous season, before packing up a few very seasonal items until the next year. For the most part, my wardrobe is the same year round -- besides these few seasonal items I rotate in and out. I have found the less I have in my closet, the easier I get dressed each morning and the happier I feel.

For Fall, here are some essentials I am working with from my capsule wardrobe, plus a few new additions…

Harrison's Capsule Wardrobe | Summer

Before Harrison was born, I scoured the internet -- trying to figure out what my son or daughter's wardrobe and aesthetic would be. I was putting together all these outfits in my head, trying to imagine who this little person would be.

Now that Harrison is here, my perspective has totally changed. I think I put jumpsuits/pants/shirts on him once and quickly realized the incredible importance of ease and comfort. Jumpsuits have a million buttons, and are SUCH a pain to change, pants/shirts combos ride up his little back and had be constantly tugging at him. It needs to be easy and comfortable for him to wear, and easy for me and my husband to put on him, plus look put together of course.

We have realized he definitely takes after his mom, and loves a wardrobe full of classic, clean and simple staples. The kid loves his elevated loungewear look, let me tell you.

Each season, I will post about Harrison's capsule wardrobe for the time of year. First up -- Summer.

Long and Short Sleeve Bodysuits

On any given day, we probably go through 3 or 4 bodysuits. Depending on the temp we opt for short sleeve or long sleeve. I tried out a few different brands and ending up loving Gap and Carter's the best for their fit, price tag, and how well they wash! We got the multi-pack for 0-3 mo and have rebought the same ones for 3-6 mo and now 6-9 mo! They're so easy and comfy, so zero complaints from the small one wearing them either.

Cotton Sweaters

While this summer was a scorcher, I always had a cotton sweater on hand in the diaper bag for Harrison. And I was surprised at how many times I pulled it out, whether to give him an extra layer in the car, a restaurant, or as a make shift blanket. I love the adorable Gap options, and I think he now has the Bear Garter Hoodie Sweater in every size he's gone through!

Lounge Shorts & Joggers

Easy, lightweight & versatile. Again, I love what Gap has to offer.

Bibs

My boy is a drooler, let me tell you. I love the multipack options I found on Amazon and stocked up. I love how they can add a different look to his otherwise very similar outfits.

Muslin Burp Cloths

I was recommended the Green Sprouts Muslin Burp Cloths by a fellow mom friend and am absolutely addicted. They wash beautifully, stay on your shoulder, and are so soft and absorbent.

Pajamas

Now that Harrison is no longer swaddled to sleep, and is out of his Magic Merlin suit, we put him to bed in just pajamas. His favorites are all (surprise!) Gap. We have about 5 pajamas he loves and since I do laundry daily, it's never an issue!

Modern Mom Jeans | Postpartum Essentials

One of the hardest things about having a c-section was the pain of recovery. I had been looking forward to getting back into my jeans after birth (hahahahaha the things I thought then and things I know now), and that was just not the reality of the situation.

The reality is this -- everyone's body handles birth differently, of course, but the majority of moms leave the hospital looking about 6 months pregnant.

This definitely threw a wrench in my expectations of myself postpartum. I quickly realized what was going to work and what was not, so I thought I would share my top essentials for the fourth trimester! These items have helped me feel put together (even if it's a day we weren't able to leave the house) which is something that is super important to me. To be honest, I'm 5 months PP now, and still rotating between these essential items on a daily basis. In general, I am a pretty simple dresser. Over the years I have found that I look my best and feel most comfortable in minimal, quality, casual pieces -- as you will come to learn!

Joggers

I wanted to be comfortable of course, but also wanted to look great for visitors and for my own sanity. I am obsessed with linen, knit and cashmere joggers, paired with a tee shirt/cardigan or linen button down. I even wear these out and about with slip on mules for a more finished look.

Linen Button Downs

For breastfeeding mamas, there is nothing better. I bought the Gap Oversized Boyfriend Linen Button Down in every single color they offer and never looked back.

Open Cardigans

Harrison was born in March, so it was still chilly and there was nothing better than being cozied up with him. Open cardigans with joggers is a relaxed, yet put together option while you're soaking up the first few months of motherhood. I picked up some great affordable options at Primark & Target, but there are also great options at J.Crew and Gap.

High Waisted Boyfriend Jeans

3 weeks postpartum I craved jeans but of course none of mine fit yet. I went into a local Madewell, and the sales team was so nice I almost cried. We tried on about 10 different pairs, all in 3-4 sizes above my pre-pregnancy size. Even still, it made me feel human again. I ended up going with a high waisted boyfriend fit. They were fitted then, but now hang loosely and I wear them almost every day. For the summer, I bought an additional pair in white to mix in to my rotation.

High Waisted Underwear

This goes out to all my c-section mamas. Isn't underwear postpartum super fun? Everything hits RIGHT at your incision, it's a real blast. A friend recommended the Kindred Bravely Postpartum Underwear & C-Section Recovery Panties, and I haven't looked back.

Slippers

Not only for comfort, but for much needed traction and support! I love the classic L.L. Bean Wicked Good Moccasins.

Cynthia Rowley Baby Set Long Sleeve Shirt, Leggins, & Romper

Source: https://www.whenmamametharry.com/style

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