issue #80: how to dress like a brooklyn mom, spring edition
or fake spring, at least
I’m writing this from my favorite local cafe. Sitting on their front porch. Absolutely destroying my eyes as I write, because I both need to be here on my computer getting this done and because I require, in this moment, full sun. It’s not every day we get it, and I am not one to waste an opportunity to soak it in.
In front of me is a parade of Brooklyn moms. Some with strollers, some with newborns strapped to their chest. Some just leaving drop off, heading to the office. Some running late for drop off, heading to the gym. All of them exuding something that I can’t quite put my finger on. But whatever it is, it always seems to manifest in their style.
Is it because they just don’t care all that much and can pull off one of those “effortless” looks that actually isn’t so effortless, but to them may be? Is it because they’re confident, feeling successful at work and at home? Is it because they already have a perfectly curated wardrobe so can look great even on the busiest of days? Is it because they have a pile of cash from a trust fund that allows them to sit up tall and relax their shoulders and not have to worry about our impending financial doom? Maybe a little bit of everything?
I’m only half kidding, of course. I don’t know what the inner lives of these women look like, I can only observe and assume (although I know many of them, and can attest to both their success and effortlessness, if not the pile of cash).
But as the sun starts to shine through, the temps start to climb, and all of us collectively start to spend a lot more time outside, be it playground or park, I am paying attention to what they’re wearing, and as a much requested follow up to my most read post of 2024, I give you: how to dress like a Brooklyn mom, spring edition.
Comfortable yet trendy jeans still reign supreme, although this spring anything goes.
Moms want to be both comfortable and fashionable around here, and fortunately our current big pants trend serves both purposes. Though I’ve heard from a few local moms that they are excited to get back into skinny jeans (!!), most of us are pretty happy to see jeans of the wider variation stick around. But you know what? Anything goes! So if straight leg jeans more your jam? Go for it. Or perhaps you’re hanging on to the barrel trend? Great. Whatever you’re comfortable in, wear that. Nothing matters!!!!!
A Really Good Sweatshirt still goes a Really Long Way.
Yeah, we’re still wearing sweatshirts. Even more so now, with this turning weather, a mass emergence from inside our homes and out into our parks. As with our jeans, we want comfort and style, but we also want practicality, and to me, nothing is more practical than a Really Good Sweatshirt.
A cropped trouser is a must.
For spring and into summer, go cotton, or maybe a linen blend. They should read casual, easy to pair with sneakers or sandals, but able to be dressed up should the day call for it. Style with a sweatshirt and sneakers to keep it casual, or pair simply with a tee and flats.
Sneakers are in, but it’s okay to put your Sambas away.
It’s also okay not to though!! If you love Sambas, wear Sambas, they’re a classic for a reason. But sneakers are a staple of any Brooklyn mom wardrobe, so a good pair you love is a must. We’re always walking, always chasing kids around, always on the go. Comfort is key here so really, whatever you want to wear in this category goes. (Not pictured here, but my personal favorite: the humble Chuck Taylor).
T Shirts must be perfectly oversized and/or boxy.
Everyone needs a good t shirt, and you’ll often see me, and the other moms, in just our favorite one paired with jeans and sneaks. It’s impossible to go wrong when you keep it simple - and you don’t have to spend a lot here to find a good one. (
recently compiled this t shirt master list and it’s gold)
As must your button down. Wear it open over a fitted tank if you’re extra cool.
My personal love for oversized button downs knows no bounds, and fortunately for me, we are living in an era of really, really great options. Full disclosure: this is also where I don’t mind spending a little bit more money. The fit is often better, and I know I will get use out of them. I essentially live in button downs year round, and they are the one thing (ok fine sweaters too) that I never part ways with. The Brooklyn moms add an extra layer of cool to theirs by wearing them open with a tank or tee underneath, and tie them around the waist when it gets too warm.
One must own either a chore jacket or quilted liner. Or a cardigan. That Toteme jacket would be fine too.
Or a denim jacket! Listen, like denim, anything goes, just make it slightly oversized and be prepared to rip it off when that sun starts to shine through.
Trade in your t neck for a v neck. Or a cardigan.
And style with a crew neck tee underneath. Best if paired with high rise straight jeans, a la vintage 90’s, a slim sneaker, or maybe some Birkenstocks, and a belt.
Flat shoes are in. Socks are still acceptable, but no longer a requirement.
And we still inexplicably love a hideous clog, of course.
Keep styling simple, lean into layers, don’t shy away from a pop of color, and wear what feels good.
happy spring!
xx
jen
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I love and adore this post, I want it mainlined into my veins until I become as effortlessly cool as a Brooklyn mom. Truly, THANK YOU for your boots on the ground reporting.
If I did this for the “OC mom” it would just be all Vuori and Lululemon so CLEARLY this was a nice departure for my eyes lol. So fun!!