how to be a sophisticated and trendy mom this summer

by Kristin Koldenhoven
(co-owner of Sophie & Trey/4th & Ocean)

As a new mother of a one-year-old boy, the struggles of balancing fashion, diapers and the Florida heat have become apparent! The daily responsibilities of a mother can make it easy for us to forget about ourselves. One of the greatest gifts I believe you can give yourself is remembering to take a minute for yourself; and looking good on the outside helps you feel good on the inside. Not only will you feel energized and empowered, but you will also inspire fellow mom’s to stay chic! With summer right around the corner, here are my favorite tricks to be an effortlessly chic mom!

Color! Adding a pop of color this season is huge! An easy way to achieve this look is starting with a neutral canvas. Pictured here, I wore white lace shorts and a white tank top. Having the all-white base made it a cinch to throw on the mint light-weight jacket and a bright wedge! Not only will you look ready for summer in a bright color, but it will look fabulous next to your little one!

The Maxi! Whether it’s a maxi skirt or maxi dress you can’t go wrong! Not only are they extremely comfortable, but they are breezy and cool for the hot months! Bending down with your baby to play is also a breeze with this look. As a Mom, I’m always looking for outfits that are functional and fashionable. Maxis are so versatile; they are perfect for a casual play date in the park or date night! With a simple change of jewelry you can completely change the mood.

Cargo Shorts,  Tees and Flip-Flops! With the hottest months of the year here, trips to the pool and beach are a definite. Cargo shorts are casual and chic. V-neck tees are flattering on all body shapes and are nice to throw on over halter bikinis. The final must-have for the pool or beach is flip flops! Havaianas are a great option. They come in bright colors, neutrals and patterns. You don’t have to worry if they get wet, and you can always throw them in the dishwasher to get them looking new again!

The Capri! Your replacement for jeans in the summer are capris. I love this look for lunch and shopping with your baby and girlfriends or for a family afternoon at the zoo! They are not as hot and constraining as jeans, and they are right on trend! I especially love the ones pictured with a little cuff at the bottom. This style jean is perfect for every occasion during the summer. Throw on a pair of ballet flats, wedges or flip-flops and these pants showcase them gorgeously!

Accessories! Hats, Sunglasses and summer scarves are key to finishing off your summer look. Fedoras and floppy hats keep the sun off your face and look adorable. You can never have enough sunglasses! One in each bag, and one in your car is my rule. That way, no matter what rush you’re in with baby in-hand, you’ll have a pair in reach. Picking up a pair for $9.99 at Sophie&Trey makes sunglasses affordable and fun! Summer scarves can add so much to an outfit! Patterns and bright colors are perfect over a tank top or dress. Not only will it look amazing on your outfit; but if your baby takes an unexpected nap in the sun, it is the perfect sun protector over the stroller.

Have fun with summer trends! Staying true to yourself and trying new things is what it’s all about! You will feel great and be ready to take on every new adventure with your little one/ones!

To read more, visit Sophie & Trey/4th & Ocean‘s blog at:
www.sophieandtrey.blogspot.com