Shlumpadinka

Inspired by my Shlumpadinka friend, Jen, we both watched the latest Oprah and lamented over the truth of it all. We (as mothers) get so busy taking care of everyone else in our lives that we often forget about us and we just wear what works, what is convenient, comfortable and easy, which usually translates to being shlumpy, frumpy, messy and unflattering. I have fallen into this trap many-a-time and would consider myself to have had some SHLUMPY moments. But never fear, Oprah has given us the ten essentials to have in our wardrobe to shield us from a day when we would just want to put on the same comfortable pajama bottoms,

pull our hair into a ponytail for the fifth day in a row,

or, heaven forbid and strike us down, throw on a Winnie the Pooh fleece jacket from Disneyland AND GO OUTSIDE OF OUR HOUSE WITHOUT CHANGING!

(PS That is NOT me!)
Here are the ten essential wardrobe items (as recommended by Lloyd Boston):

1. Trench
*buy one brightly colored or white
*it is light enough to layer under it and pack it if you're traveling

2. Black or white turtleneck

I have been opposed to these since seeing a college boyfriend in one on a crisp fall day. Maybe I need to realize that it doesn't have to be pumpkin orange or forest green but it can be sophisticated and hide what I don't want people to see. Oh wait, that would mean cleavage....people need to see that! (Right, Jen!?)

3. Black trouser
*if you are petite, it should be a tapered leg
*if you are "blessed" with curves and hips, a wider leg
*I am "blessed"

4. A tunic
*classic
*looks good on anyone
*great for every occasion
*nuf said

5. White jeans
*what? seriously?

6. Dark jeans
*phew, I can handle this one

7. Black dress
*can be short, gauzy, and layered over jeans
*can also be more formal and sexy

8. White denim or dark blue denim jacket
*I'm back to the - WHAT? Seriously??

9. Black skirt
*pencil or a-line

10. Cashmere sweater
*they mentioned you could buy them at J.Crew and they're not that expensive. Seriously? Did you know you just said "not that expensive at J.CREW??"

(11.) Shoes and bag
*white oversized bags are looking good year-round
*leopard print or juicy colored flats are a must and make any outfit

So if you see me around town WITHOUT my ponytail, a pair of leopard print flats and a white denim jacket, not only will it be shocking, but I'm also just attempting to shed myself of feeling like a Shlumpadinka. Good luck, you Shlumpas!