I’m not what you would call a Fashionista. I like to get ready for work with minimal effort because I like getting as much sleep as I can.
Plus, I have to deal with getting a toddler ready to go to Grandma’s house for the day. I still have to look professional at work, though.
I’ve mastered the art of finding simple solutions to looking like an actual professional human in the workplace. Here are my simple style tips for busy working moms.

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Note: This post has been updated and since I wrote this, I actually quit my job! I’m now a full time professional blogger and I work from home. So my wardrobe has changed from professional to pajamas. lol
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Buy 50 Pairs of Black Pants or Leggings
Ok, maybe you don’t need 50 pairs. That’s the approximate number of pairs of black pants and leggings that I own.
Black pants go with pretty much everything, and that makes it easy for me to shop.
If I see a top I like, all I have to worry about is “Does that go with black pants?” I don’t like to spend too much time trying to pair tops with pants or skirts. I don’t even match my socks when I do laundry.
There are several different types of black pants in my wardrobe to go with various tops. I may have way too many leggings, but I like to be comfortable at work.
They go well with long sweater tops during the fall. I also have skinny dress pants and boot cut dress pants.
The skinny pants work best with more blousy tops, and bootcut goes with anything. I’m not going to lie. I still wear some of my maternity pants, too.

Cardigans are a Must
Even in the summer, I’ll wear a short sleeve or three-quarter sleeve cardigan.
For fall, I like long duster cardigans that I can wear with my leggings. They give the illusion of a suit jacket without the bulk.
They’re also more affordable than suit jackets.
You’d think I’d only have black cardigans since I have a truckload of black pants, but I don’t. I do have at least three or four black cardigans, but I also have about five others in various colors.
Neutral colors are my favorites because most of my tops are bright and colorful. I don’t want to have too much color in my outfit. Just a pop!
Colorful tops add a nice pop of color to your working mom style
I love colorful tops with lots of different patterns. Usually if I find a cut of a top that I like, I’ll buy it in several patterns and styles.
This is my absolute favorite top. I have it in 2 patterns and one solid color, and I’m hoping to get more. It goes great with leggings because it comes down past your butt. I’ve gotten lots of compliments on them.
Buy Basic Flats in Different Colors
Finding shoes to match an outfit is the last thing on my mind. Every year, I’ll get a BOGO deal on some professional looking flats that are comfortable and come in at least two colors.
That way I only have to decide “black or silver today?” Easy peasy. I just have to remember where I put them before I run out the door!
And no, I don’t do well in heels. I’m a disaster in heels. lol

Get a Unique Watch
Wearing a watch isn’t a necessity anymore. There are clocks everywhere. But a nice looking watch is an easy way to give you that professional “I know what I’m doing” look.
A unique watch can also be a conversation piece because you tend to make a lot of small talk with customers, clients, or coworkers.
My boss noticed mine instantly and wanted to know more. Once I added a cool watch to my outfit, I felt like I could lead seminars and conferences! It’s a confidence boost.
I have a wooden one like this. And this one is also by the same people and is really pretty.
And if you need a pretty planner to go with your outfits, check out these planners for working moms that are pretty and practical.
What’s Your Busy Working Mom Style?
How do you save time in the morning? Let me know in the comments below!
Katrin says
Hi Niki, Thank you for your fun post! I just recently went back to work…..after a very very long time at home with my kids, so I had to shop work outfits. Although I’m a kindergarten teacher, I still kinda have to look presentable but in a comfy way. I love my black pants!!! You really don’t see stains easily, you know little hand prints and all 😉 so yes, with different tops and fun flats I’m ready in no time in the morning. Your tips are great and I do need a watch still, as I don’t have a wall clock in my class, I know, crazy hey??
Niki @ Toot's Mom is Tired says
I don’t have a wall clock in my office either! Before I had a watch I was constantly looking at my computer but one screen is on the cloud and set in a different time zone so it really messed me up. Lol
Brittany says
Great tips! I like to sleep as much as I can too, so my look is very minimal! This watch is very nice and could go with anything!
Julie says
Love the pop of green on that watch! OMG you and me are ttelling same with black pants!! I also have all black shoes. Lol
Brittany Ferrell says
That watch is the cutest ever! I love the pop of color! I think you are also right on with the black pants and colorful flats. Those are staples that you can mix and match with anything. I will definitely check out this watch for my hubby, too!
Niki @ Toot's Mom is Tired says
My husband is practically begging for one now. He wants the blue Delmar.
Roxanne says
Great list! I find keeping basics on hand and mixing with a pop of color really helps when in a hurry!
Amber says
I am the owner of many black pants too- love that watch though 🙂 Thanks for stopping by I am PIinnable NIki
April says
Ummmmmm…. I LOVE the watch! I also agree that you can NEVER have too many pairs of black pants. Have you tried the buttery soft Lula Roe leggings yet?? (I’m not a consultant, so don’t worry about a sales pitch here!!) I actually gave in and ordered my first pair…. TO. DIE. FOR. Super comfy and a great wear for blogging with a latte in hand!
Niki @ Toot's Mom is Tired says
OMG I LOVE LULAROE LEGGINGS!!! I have two pairs and I need more!!!