Word To The Moms

On 2/17/09 at 7:59 PM re: Shopping Practice At Goodwill, gigwalsh wrote: If you jumped into a time machine, and you were a mom hauling your kid around to school at 8 am, what would you wear? What Would JAP do? On 2/18/09 at 7:36 PM, Rebecca emailed: I’ve been reading your blog for a while, I have to say I’m riveted! It’s like stepping out of my world of nappies and vege gardens into another universe! My life couldn’t possibly be more different to yours- I’m a former teacher/artist/suburban housewife who has never had the use of her Dad’s AMEX, or any other of his funds whatsoever, in New Zealand, 30 years old, so it’s all quite fascinating. Love what you’re doing with scissors and cashmere, and may even add ‘effing’ to my vocabulary (might baffle people here for a while, but I’m sure it’ll catch on). Good work Hey Moms, What’s Up, Thought I’d do a little comment fusion here to (a) answer gigwalsh’s query and (b) show Rebecca that the universe o’ Cheap JAP knows no bounds. I imagine chasing after kiddies as potentially perilous to one’s wardrobe – your clothes gotta have movement AND be able to survive spills, mud and occasional vomit. My little bro and I have been not-so-little for quite some time now, but my own Mom’s overarching style hasn’t changed a lick since we were kiddies: She’s always worn some form of Workout Apparel, yet she’s always managed to make what are essentially trendy sweats look like real clothes. I’m fairly sure Mama Cheap JAP’s technique of treating Workout Wear/Fashion Fitness Attire/Yoga Wares (Eff multiple names, let’s call it Busy Gear) as everyday attire works for Moms of all ages with kids of all ages. Just because you’re too busy to think doesn’t mean you can’t look put together in clothing as comfortable as your PJs. It’s important to note that Busy Gear is vastly different from sweats-and-sneakers; it’s fitted, flattering clothing as chic as it is comfortable. Yoga Pants and Camisoles are the building blocks to be layered with Tees, Lightweight Jackets or Sweaters and paired with Flats, Sandals or Boots according to weather and to whatever mood you happen to be in at the time. It’s equally important to note that Busy Gear, despite its origins, is not exclusive to those who actually work out. Just because one wears and enjoys this kind of clothing every day doth not mean one hits the gym every day – tres DRAG, and you burn all kinds of cals chasing after your little cherubs anyway, so no worries. That the Camisoles-and-Yoga-Pants portion of Busy Gear can’t really be bought secondhand is unfortunate, but probably for the best. Donning previously-worn spandex is as ill-advised as wearing new undies unlaundered for good reason – you just don’t know where that shit’s been. For Camis of the non-pricey ilk, Target has a fab selection of Hanes and C9 by Champion options. Daffy’s is also a solid bet, as it gives you the chance to score high-end Activewear on the cheap. And if paying $24 for Ah Camisole isn’t against your moral code, go for Anthropologie’s Seamless Camis by Eloise. Obvs. Yoga Pants require more of a monetary investment (from around $60 (NBD) to around $150 (Oy Vey)), but a good pair doesn’t just last fo eva – it masks everything from stains to cellulite and makes you feel like one Hot Mama, 24/7. No brand has mastered the art of the YP quite like Lululemon (store locations are limited, so search other retailers if you come up short). I’m partial to the Hipster Pant in Denim. Other noteworthy YP efforts include but are not limited to: Bluefish Sport‘s 2 Back Pocket Pant OMgirl‘s Nomad Pant, Couture Activewear‘s Boot-Cut Jean Pant. Go fitted, go cargo, go capri – whatever trips your trigger. Just don’t go drawstring – that’s a massive pain the arse. The Camisole-Yoga Pant Uniform is best paired with Wrap Sweaters, Lightweight Jackets (as previously mentioned) and basic tunics or tees in warmer weather (see American Apparel, obvs). Re: Footwear, know that a slightly-flared Yoga Pant looks as good with ballet flats as it does with Converse, and can even be tucked into flat boots. For you, gigwalsh, I’m thinking a Camisole/Yoga Pant/Wrap Sweater/Flat Boot/Trench Coat Combo en route to school drop-off. Hope all you Hot Mamas out there either find this useful, or enjoy it as a respite from busting your ass all day. Now put your hubby on parent-duty and go take a bath or something. MWAH! Cheap JAP