A few days ago I had one of those "classic mornings". I woke up late, kiddo woke up early, we were out of toaster waffles, and of course, that's the only thing my daughter wanted for breakfast. Well, you can imagine what the rest of the day was like and if you can't, here's a hint- it wasn't good... But, did I feel like I was put together and not disheveled (at least in appearance)?- YUP!
Secret to my success? I put my clothes out the night before. I know this sounds weird and very "2nd grader" but it works!! I've been doing this as long as I can remember. I'm not sure if my parents taught me this (if so, thanks Mom & Dad, if not, well thanks anyway) or if it's something I just came up with on my own. You might be thinking, "I don't even know what I'm having for dinner until 5 min before, how can I plan what I'm going to wear?" or, "I have no time at night to think about what to wear". All, very valid call outs, but for me, investing a maximum of 5min the night before saves me time the next morning and, more importantly for me, helps me start my day with a little less stress.
Let's take the morning I described earlier, had I not put my clothes out the night before, I think my day would've been beyond horrific. It was the last day of pre-school for my daughter, and I had an end of year parent-teacher conference, therefore, I had to be at school on time. I was rushing to shower and deal with the whole toaster waffle tantrum. Then, there are all the trials and tribulations of getting a 3 year old ready and out the door in 20 min. When would I have had the time to focus on choosing the perfect "I'm here to discuss my daughter's academic and social development" outfit? I wouldn't. I probably would've shown up in sweats, 2 different shoes and my I love NY tee. Not quite the outfit that exudes "I'm ready to listen to all you have to say about my daughter's progress". But, that was not the case. While I was trying to get over the loud "I want waffles" screams that were still echoing in my head, I at least looked put together. I wore my ironed, white button down shirt, blazer and denim. I was the business woman / mom / involved parent image that I wanted to project.
This tip isn't just for moms, just busy gals in general. When I just starting working in the fashion industry, even after a crazy day of work, I'd take 5min to put out my clothes the night before. The benefit- an extra 20 min of sleep in the morning, so worth it. Math doesn't add up? Well for me, I'd be so tired and groggy in the morning, that if I didn't put my clothes out the night before I'd stare at my closet for at least 20min to decide what to wear. Hence, the extra 20 min of sleep.
This tip may not work for everyone, but thought I'd share it since it has helped me. Anyone have any other time saving tips that help us look and feel like the fashionistas we are? I'd love to hear them!

I just sleep in my clothes. That saves me time in the morning. ;-)
Posted by: Naomi Odes Aytur | 06/19/2011 at 12:58 PM
Great idea. I used to put my clothes out, now my method includes keeping classic pieces and dresses handy. There are days when I wear the same thing in a row, but at least I look put together! My biggest hurdle is hair/makeup. For hair I need to do it and then keep it for 3 days. Makeup depends on time. I totally hear you though - I can have a crappy disorganized day, but if I'm put together at least I can hold my head up high (and not be mistaken for a Mexican cleaning lady or my child's nanny...sorry I know that's racist but it's true!)
Posted by: babysealmomma | 06/19/2011 at 04:48 PM
Naomi- I'm definitely going to try sleeping my clothes :)
Posted by: Monisha @ retail therapy couch | 06/22/2011 at 04:05 PM
Keeping classic pieces handy is a great idea!! Thanks!!
Posted by: Monisha @ retail therapy couch | 06/22/2011 at 04:05 PM