Ashley Crookham's Writing

Congrats!

You have made plans and the two of you are getting some IRL time to see how you get along outside of your text chat.

Friend Date Style: How to Look Great Without Trying Too Hard

Maybe you’re meeting for coffee during early naptime, or your partner is going to watch the kids while you have a girls night out. You’re trying not to think about the cleaning you usually do during naptime. Or the amount of TV the kids will watch in his care.

Now it’s time to stress about clothes. You want to look your best without seeming like you’re trying too hard. Here’s the lowdown on nailing that cool-mom-still-a-human vibe:

The Golden Rule: Comfort is Key

First things first, forget about squeezing into something you wore before giving birth. All you will think about is how is used to look on you. Instead, pick something you wore while pregnant which now makes you look comparatively skinny.

The Other Golden Rule

Don’t wear an outfit from your mom app profile.

Dress for the Occasion

• Casual Coffee: Wear brown so she won’t see when you spill.
• Lunch Date: Look at the place’s social media. Match the pictures, or slightly nicer. But not too much nicer!
• Shopping: Pick a purse in which you can find your wallet quickly. No one wants to hold up the line.

The Art of Effortless Style

• Fit is Everything: Clothes that fit you well are the foundation of a great look. This is your first meeting; she won’t know it’s your go-to yet.
• Accessorize Wisely: Pick an accessory you like to tell the story about in case you run out of things to talk about.
• Don’t Forget the Shoes: Your shoes can make or break your look. Also, they can break you the next day. Is she really worth blisters?

To Ask or Not to Ask?

When it comes to coordinating outfits with your friend, it’s totally up to you. If you’re both comfortable with it, a quick text like, “Hey, what are you thinking of wearing for our date?” can be a fun way to get on the same page. But if you prefer to surprise each other, that can be something to agonize over with your partner.

The Fine Line Between Looking Good and Bragging

The key is to strike a balance between looking good and not outshining your friend. You want to look like you’ve made an effort, but you don’t want to come across as trying too hard. Here are a few tips:

• Avoid anything expensive. 
  • Your nerves will probably lose or destroy it while you’re out of your element.
• Keep your makeup and hair natural.
  • But also remember to look at yourself in the mirror before you leave.
• Focus on feeling confident and comfortable in your own skin.
  • If you have unflattering profile pictures in the app, you’ll know she likes you for your personality. Plus you’ll look even better in person.

Ultimately, the most important thing is to have fun and enjoy your time with your friend. You’ll have hours days and weeks to wish you had dressed and acted differently afterwards.