Toddler Inspired Style

I’m a soon-to-be senior who now dresses like a toddler with a collection of rockin’ rompers and overalls.

I gave up seamlessly blending into societal norms and staying on-trend with tailored suits and timeless accessories. My industry changed dramatically, and my attire reflected that shift. I no longer navigate the world of high heels, shapewear, and statement pieces to look my best while sacrificing comfort. I didn’t transition to moo-moos but pivoted instead to rompers and overalls. It was a fabulous fusion of practicality and sophistication.

Prioritizing comfort over couture is now my fashion playground. Conquering the world from a place of ease while unleashing my inner mischief-maker no different from that of a toddler. Where pants come with space, there are no tight fabrics and the sucking in of tummies doesn’t exist. Thanks to the bib, one piece covers your entire body requiring only a simple tank top or t-shirt underneath sans a bra if you choose—a  bonus. T-shirts underneath the bibs are thoughtful, not cartoon characters with ethereal statements like ‘One Love,’ ‘Believe,’ or ‘It’s Okay, I’m On 500 Mg of Fuckitol.’

While Tutu Tuesdays aren’t my thing, I’ll sport a colourful, long, sheer floral scarf as a sarong over some boyfriend or skinny jeans. Though not a romper, it’s an excellent alternative as a relaxed chic layered look a toddler could appreciate, and someone resistant to surrender their heels or blazers can adopt. An easy summer outfit that screams confidence paired with a simple white tee that the current luxury dressing trend satisfies. And like overalls, jumpers, or rompers, all possess great lines, colours and styles and are free of labels. If you’re petite, you can roll up the legs part way and throw on a pair of wedged sandals or boots. Embracing your individuality and swaggering into the world effortlessly and fashionably.

Going to the bathroom is a breeze. You need only grab the bib and hold on tight. Though more demanding, the one-piece jumpers with attached sleeves are still easier to manoeuvre than a body suit. Some women I’ve spoken with claim that sweatpants embody fearless authenticity and ultimate comfort. I say keep those for when you have a cold, or there’s a blizzard.

The era of blouses and bows is over for me. They were lovely for fancy occasions but not when you’re on the move with a phone or measuring tape. I’m now in a space and at an age where the stitches meet the fabric, prioritizing practicality without sacrificing style unaffected by judgments while channelling my inner toddler fashionista.

Life’s short to take fashion so seriously. There’s an ABC to business attire and dressing formally but not with casual dressing when it comes to overalls or rompers. That’s something you create to reflect who YOU are. It’s transformative, breaking free from the norm and daring to be toddler-fashion fabulous. It can be a weekend wear look or an aspect of one’s wardrobe. It need not dominate it. It’s certainly not a Laura Ashley-type style that was a fleeting first-trimester phase for many. It’s simply about radiating a free and cheerful spirit.

I took a high-heel walking course for fun some years ago. It had been ages since I strutted in heels, and I wanted to see if I still had it in me. Our instructor was a total bombshell with legs that reached the sky. She wore tiny high-cut shorts with a bib that might give you the wrong impression in any other setting, but when she walked in those black stilettos, our jaws dropped. She could’ve been in a power suit.  She owned it and commanded attention. It made me think that every aspect of our lives should be open to that kind of ownership. Loose and creative attire can wrap that same fierce spirit just as well as tight and restrictive clothing.

One of the many perks is the ample room for adjustment. Hiding anything from a pair of Knix to Depends to a carry-on and discreetly making yourself comfortable without anyone suspecting a thing. It’s the ultimate liberation where movement knows no bounds and where modern lines and style still exist. In our mother’s day, comfort came as elasticized pants made from crimplene and polyester and was void of sophistication. We can keep our refinement and take our cues from vintage overalls and bohemian rompers, adorably combining comfort and style.

Last winter, I got my hands on a pair of winter overalls that were pure magic. They were thick and cozy, like a blanket. When paired with a black turtleneck and a cropped jacket, even high-end couture houses would take notice. I wouldn’t wear them to a funeral, but there’s a slew of other places I’d push the envelope. I’m not talking about dressing like a circus act, but if you’ve got the confidence and sense of style to push the envelope and rock it, why not. I feel like a fashionable toddler on the move, except in possession of a license, credit cards and height.

I loved playing dress-up as a little girl, and I’ve never stopped. As a seasoned adult, my dress-up game has evolved into a dress-down extravaganza with a tasteful twist tapping into the magic of unbridled imagination and unshakeable confidence. Empowering oneself to break free from the constraints of conventional adult attire while mastering the art of looking effortlessly stylish while feeling super comfy. Get fancy by pairing overalls with a tuxedo shirt and jacket. Who says elegance can’t be playful? Top it off with a boxy blazer and funky, shiny patent shoes, and don’t forget the shades. Toddlers love theirs.

Life is heavy with responsibilities and worries. Dressing in a manner that allows us to shed that weight and reconnect with a carefree spirit leaving behind the stress of adulting even for a moment, and embracing the present with open arms is refreshing.

The alternative is denying that playfulness and torturing oneself with fitted attire requiring shapewear, which is a heart-pounding experience that’s neither sexy, liberating, or playful, — just f**king terrifying.