15 Items That Will Get You Excited for AutumnRead More Shoes to replace sliders, the best knits – and the items to wear with them. Post author By The Mum Club Post date 19 September 2024 15 Items That Will Get You Excited for Autumn Shoes to replace sliders, the best knits – and the items to wear with them. The Knit “Red knits are a great way to add some colour to your wardrobe this autumn.” Red Cardigan Urban Outfitters £39.00 Turtleneck Knit Sweater Mango £49.99 Cable Knit Sisterhood £145.00 The Outerwear “Yes, wax jackets are cool again!” Wax Twill Jacket H&M £54.99 Shearling Aviator Jacket M&S £89.00 Lorna Wrap Wool Coat Whistles £263.20 (Sale) The Bottoms “Comfy trousers to cover up cold legs are just what we need.” Wide Trousers H&M £24.99 Red Stripe Trouser Mint Velvet £109.00 Leopard Print Satin Skirt Mango £45.99 The Shoes “Our millenial hearts are loving that ballet flats are back! These are great to dress up or down.” The Greta Ballet Flat Madewell £96.00 Dartmoor Loafer Russell & Bromley £245.00 SL 70 Trainers Adidas £80.00 The Accessories ” The perfect shaped sunnies, a cozy bright red scarf, and a stylish new bag. = the perfect accessories for autumn.” Zulu Light Tort Sunglasses Shevoke £104.00 Fringed Edge Scarf Mango £22.99 Santa Croce Big Dark Brown Dragon Diffusion £375.00
Managing the Juggle When You’re a Working MumRead More *Please note that The Mum Club does not endorse or promote smoking. Fed up of hearing how you just need to plan outfits and meal prep? Yes, those things are… Post author By The Mum Club Post date 17 September 2024 Managing the Juggle When You’re a Working Mum *Please note that The Mum Club does not endorse or promote smoking. Fed up of hearing how you just need to plan outfits and meal prep? Yes, those things are helpful but seriously there must be more innovative ways to lighten the load. Luckily there is! From the women who have founded their own companies to career coaches and real mums bossing it in business (or trying to), these are the best tips and tricks that are working for them. Look after yourself before you go back to work “Make use of those nursery settles and schedule some time in for yourself. You have spent several days nurturing and raising a little baby back-to-back. Plot at least one day to yourself if you can recoup and recharge. Heck, you need to celebrate yourself for everything you’ve achieved and done since becoming a mother.” Tobi Asare of My Bump Pay Let nursery help you out “If your children attend nursery, ask them if they can ease a particular situation for you. Recently my toddler had a tantrum over not changing out of his new Paw Patrol pyjamas. I was in such a rush for work that I gave in and asked the nursery if they could do it for me. Upon drop-off, they told me that a lot of children come in like that every morning, and it made me feel a lot better! There’s also been occasions where I’ve not had time for teeth brushing or a face wash, and they’ve helped me out. I’m not suggesting you become a demanding diva and get them to do everything. But if a tiny tweak makes a huge difference to you, let it go and ask for help!” TMC Editor, Lydia House Buy sleepwear that could pass as an outfit If you want to be even savvier, get some sets that can easily pass as clothes or clothes that pass as Pjs and let them sleep in them. Great if you have an early start, a late sleeper (lucky you) or just a lot on your hands. Ribbed Cotton Set Create some non-negotiables Need to fit in a spin class or some quality time with your children? “Try setting out ‘non-negotiables’ and ‘nice-to-haves’ regarding work-life balance. Then stick to them as best you can. For example, If I don’t see my son throughout the week, I can’t bring my best self to work, so I make sure that always happens.” Keep it Cleaner CEO, Steph Clarie Smith Keep It Cleaner is a health and wellness app that has pre and postnatal workouts and healthy recipes. Download this app… “Use a task management app like Asana where you can write lists of everything you need to do and then put them in order of priority. Add in your personal ‘to-do’s as well. You can’t focus on your work if you’re thinking about calling the doctor. Add to this list throughout the day, and ensure everything is on there before logging off. That way, when you get to the office in the morning, you know exactly what to do and in what order, so no time is wasted. Plus – you’ll get a buzz whenever you tick something off your list!” Lizzie Hazell, Start-up Coach and Mentor Lizzie Hazell Business Coach Shed the mum guilt Comparing yourself to your sis-in-law who has gone back part-time and constantly sends pics of her kids to the family WhatsApp group? “Stop! No one’s set-up is the same, no one’s parenting is the same, and no one’s career journey is the same. So why do we get ourselves in a spin about comparing our parenting and career journeys with others? I remember feeling guilty about returning to work five days a week, but I soon realised that was the best decision for my little family and me. The comparison can make us feel like we’re not enough for our little ones, and I can bet you that that couldn’t be further from the truth. So stay away from guilt-inducing comparison. Be inspired by others, yes, but ditch the guilt and find your own blended way to make it all work for you.” Tobi Asare of My Bump Pay and Author of The Blend Read this book… If you can find time to read. This book is worth picking up. It doesn’t talk about ‘the juggle’ or finding ‘balance’ but instead about ‘The Blend’ and learning to make the two worlds work together. Covering everything from the financial to the emotional aspects of working motherhood and from preparing for maternity leave to returning with confidence. Buy now Schedule your replies Often, we can be our own worst enemy when it comes to blurring lines between work and home. If your boss or colleagues keep contacting you out of hours and you want to reply to get it off your mind, schedule an email so it sends the next the morning at the beginning of the working day. It will lighten your mental load, make you look more efficient, and set a precedent that you are only contactable and responsive during working hours. Give yourself some natural energy “Taking a full lunch is so hard, especially when you know you have to leave early to get kids or your schedule is jam-packed. The only way I can ensure that I’m eating enough fruit and veg is to pack it all into a juice and then grab something quick, like a sandwich, to go with it. I keep the ingredients in my freezer and blend them each morning. It sounds cliché, but I’ve found that since I started doing this, I have more energy and am more alert.” TMC Co-Founder, Lauren Webber Nutribullet Blender Create confidence with a capsule wardrobe “Creating almost a uniform that you can slot together is great for busy mums as you can quickly slot them together each morning. Opt for neutral colours, like navy, white, tan, ochre and grey. They are timeless and classic, and you’ll always be able to pick those out whatever the season.” Leading Stylist, Sarah Barlow Follow Sarah for more tips Learn to say no “I read somewhere that exceptionally successful people are really good at saying no, and I believe it – though it is hard to live by. Try to think about what you can let go of. For me, that means letting go of an orderly, clutter-free house. Try to free yourself from as many obligations as possible so you can focus on what matters.” Jessica Rolph, Cofounder & CEO of Lovevery Lovevery make stage based developmental toys. Find out more about them here. Plan efficiently “I like to jot down my weekly plan. I plot in my top 3 goals every morning in red – these are the must-do things that must be done before the day starts. Once they are done, I will get through the rest of my list, which I try to keep to a doable amount. It’s always best to keep these down as you feel like you’ve achieved more by ticking nearly everything off, and it helps reduce overwhelming feelings.” Keri Jamieson – Owner and founder of KeriKit Vicki Journal Cover, KeriKit Use a morning bath to get yourself ready “I have two very young children and my husband has to leave very early for work, so getting ready in the morning has become a fine art. Unless I decide to wash before they wake (at 4/5am) or Iet them roam free while I shower (not an option). Sometimes the only way I can get myself washed is by getting us ALL in the bath. They bloody love it, and it’s quite fun tbf. I get out before them, dry off and get into a basic outfit I’ve left out the night before. And while they are happily splashing away, I brush my hair and apply some skincare I’ve now placed in the family bathroom. It means I can keep an eye on them (so they don’t drown), and I feel more put together than I used to.” TMC Editor Lydia House Rejig responsibilities of the household This is a game-changing guide to reclaiming more time in your life by dividing chores in a simple new way. Helping to you to avoid the mental load and conflicts that often arise in relationships. “Being a parent is hard; maintaining a happy marriage when children are young is even harder.Fair Play is what every busy parent needs to shed resentment, move beyond blame, and reconnect with each other. By easing the home burdens and working collaboratively, parents will find the key to a happier marriage and more family joy.” Tovah Klein, PhD, director of the Barnard Centre for Toddler Development and author of How Toddlers Thrive Fair Play, Don’t blur your time Feel like you’re doing it all, but like you’re failing at everything? “Don’t blend your time. Focus on one or the other at different times (if you can), so you can give your best to work and your children. I often tried to work or take a call while they were around, which resulted in me doing a lousy job of both. I wish I had been firmer with my boundaries. Now I won’t take my phone and laptop upstairs for bed and bath time or have it at the table for mealtimes or in the playroom with the girls. Find what your hard rules are and be clear about them. I bent my rules too much when I returned to work. Find a compromise that works for you and your employer, and be firm with the decision.” Founder of Lullaloop, Jodie Teare Lullaloop is a Toddler Clothing Rental Company. Find out more about them here.
The Best Tray Bakes and One Pot WondersRead More Post author By The Mum Club Post date 16 September 2024 The Best Tray Bakes and One Pot Wonders Because we’d rather be doing other things than standing over a stove… The Best Traybakes… 1. Spiced Salmon Traybake Healthy herby items chucked in the oven and a winner every time. Recipe 2. Spiced Coconut Chicken and Rice Deliciously creamy with the right amount of spice. Recipe 3. Scruffy Veg Lasagne Lasagne without precision and a lot more veg. Recipe 4. Easy Meatball Bake The best meatball sauce – that you don’t have to watch over. Recipe 5. Roasted Cauliflower & Chickpea Tray Bake Recipe The Best One Pots… 1. Chicken, Sausage & Apple Cider Stew The best cheer up meal that is autumn in a pot. Recipe 2. Hairy Biker’s Very Good Chicken Balti The one we have at the weekend and then eat the leftovers to cheer up our Monday (if there is any!). Recipe 3. Winter Minestrone One Pot Like a more substantial soup that’s packed full of goodness. Recipe 4. Creamy Chicken Mushroom One Pot Delicious on its own or served with a dollop of creamy mash and green veg. Recipe 5. Vegetarian Lancashire Hot Pot Proving that not all hot pots have to contain meat. Recipe
What to Wear This WeekRead More All products on this page have been selected by our editorial team, however, we may make a commission on some products. Post author By The Mum Club Post date 16 September 2024 What to Wear This Week When it’s cold but warm, and then cold again… Wool-Alpaca Blend Cardigan Arket £97 T-Bar Chain Necklace Missoma £239 Patra Medium Hoops Mejuri £98 Wide Tailored Trousers H&M £14.99 Faux Leather Woven Bag Anthropologie £135 SL 72 OG Trainers Adidas £80 All products on this page have been selected by our editorial team, however, we may make a commission on some products.
Can’t Mum Without: Dr Zoe WilliamsRead More The juggle is real! As we’re all very aware. So what items make your mum-life that bit easier? We spoke to Dr Zoe Williams, who is a mum, a NHS… Post author By The Mum Club Post date 12 September 2024 Can’t Mum Without: Dr Zoe Williams The juggle is real! As we’re all very aware. So what items make your mum-life that bit easier? We spoke to Dr Zoe Williams, who is a mum, a NHS GP and a resident medical expert on ITV’s This Morning, to find out her mum must-haves… 1. Best Tip for Travelling With Kids “We’re doing a lot of travel at the moment so this one is easy to answer, although I can’t whittle it down to just one! My top three tips though would be to take lots of small snacks, take a few little toys so that you can take out a new one every now and again as a surprise, and don’t forget to take spare clothes.” Shop Now 2. What to Take on the Plane with Kids “A favourite book is always a winner, particularly on a plane. And some of the new toys from Ravensburger’s new Play+ line include suction cups so that you can attach them to plane windows or tables. This kind of toy helps to avoid those ‘oh no’ moments when littles ones might drop the toy into tiny spaces on the plane.” Shop Now 3. My Favourite Podcast for Mums “I am a big fan of the Joe Wickes ‘Wean in 15’ podcast which he does in collaboration with the wonderful nutritionist Charlotte Stirling-Reed.” Shop Now 4. The Thing That Helps Me Stay Healthy “I have a BabyJogger stroller, which has meant that my daughter and I can enjoy great times together while I’m getting plenty of exercise too.” Shop Now 5. The Best Educational Toy That I Also Enjoy “I’m looking forward to the new Play+ range of books from Ravensburger. These have just launched and the range includes storybooks that also include tips for parents on making bedtime or night time routines easier for example.” Shop Now The Best Advice for New Mums “There is so much information and advice out there for new parents and it can be confusing. Be open to advice, but trust and follow your instincts as a parent.” A Tip for Working Mums on Managing the Juggle and Mum Guilt I think it’s beneficial to make a list of the ‘why’. Remember why you’re doing what you’re doing and come back to it whenever you need to – positive affirmations like this can really put things in perspective. Best Advice for Improving Your Mental Health as a Mum “Give yourself permission to put yourself first sometimes. Self-care enables you to be the best form of yourself and that can only be a good thing for you and your family. Remember that self-care isn’t a treat or something to feel guilty about, it’s essential.” Tip for Making Play Interesting for Parents “Be guided by your child. As adults we can ‘forget’ how to play, or we can get lost in trying to keep things too organised. Let yourself be guided by your child and this will help you be free and tap into your inner child. This time spent playing together is great for both of you!” How to Regain Confidence After Becoming a Mum “Becoming a mum is a huge change. Comparing ourselves to the images of parenthood we see on social media is tempting and can leave confidence low. Spending time with other new parents, and keeping it real, sharing the ups and downs can help provide reassurance and boost confidence.” Dr Zoe Williams is an ambassador for the Play+ infant and toddler range of books and toys from Ravensburger. The collection has just launched and you can explore the range at www.ravensburger.co.uk Created in Partnership With Ravensburger
How to Manage Stress When You’re a New MumRead More By TMC Editor Lydia House “I really struggled after my second son was born. Managing two children under two, with very little sleep and support, and a house move to… Post author By The Mum Club Post date 10 September 2024 How to Manage Stress When You’re a New Mum By TMC Editor Lydia House “I really struggled after my second son was born. Managing two children under two, with very little sleep and support, and a house move to the countryside that left me even more isolated. I was feeling stressed, overwhelmed and unhappy. On top of that, I was short-tempered and tired, and I frequently lost my temper with my husband and, on the odd occasion, with my children. I started having worrying thoughts like, “If I had an accident and ended up in hospital, then others would have to step in, and they’d see how hard this is. Then maybe I’d get a break! I didn’t think about hurting myself or anyone else, but I did feel desperate. Unable to cope. And I needed some help.” Tips on Managing Stress Dr Emma Hepburn, Clinical Psychologist, says, “Stress has such a significant impact on our wellbeing and health that it’s really important to notice how full your cup is and take proactive action to manage this when it’s all becoming a bit too much and at risk of spilling over.” View this post on Instagram A post shared by Dr Emma Hepburn Clinical Psychologist, Author and Illustrator (@thepsychologymum) Consider What Needs to Be Done and What Can Wait A messy house can wait. The dishwasher can wait. And actually, a crying baby can wait a bit too. Realise that you don’t have to do everything, when you can’t. We’re not telling you to leave your baby crying while you slowly eat Eggs Bene’. But making yourself tea and toast before you sit to breastfeed for half an hour, is always a good idea. Throw Some Things Out of Your Cup Yes, your partner may have gone back to work and you’re at home. But that doesn’t mean you have to do all the jobs at home aswell as looking after your baby, or babies! It’s tough for both of you right now, but that doesn’t mean they can’t cook dinner or bring something in. You can also ask a grandparent or friend to help take a child to an appointment. It doesn’t always have to be you. Get help when you feel like you’re juggling plates, because the inevitable crash is far worse than plucking up the courage to pass something on. Find Yourself a Therapy Friend Talking out your problems is one of the best ways to lighten your mental load. And at The Mum Club events, you’ll find a tribe of women who feel exactly the same way. Get out of the house, leave the messy toys and piles of washing and take some time out for you. Find your nearest event It’s Never too Late to Discuss Family Roles The minute your baby entered the world, you and your partner became parents. And you now have a shared responsibility (even if you’re not together). If things aren’t working and you feel lost, suggest that you sit down when the baby is asleep or in someone else’s care and talk about your roles, wants and needs. TMC Editor, Lydia House says, “I did this with my husband, and we bought and played the Fair Play card game. It helped BOTH of us understand what the other one had on. I thought it would reveal a huge imbalance. But we realised we were both doing a lot and talking it through really helped us understand each other.” View this post on Instagram A post shared by Riff Raff Baby (@riffraff_sleeptoys) Dealing With Losing Your Temper We’ve all been there, usually with our partner, our parents, and sometimes our children. When tiredness meets mental and physical overload, it = burnout, which causes irritability. And sometimes, the fuse burns to the point where we feel so pushed we just blow. Jess Urlichs describes the feeling perfectly… View this post on Instagram A post shared by J E S S I C A U R L I C H S (@jessurlichs) A volatile environment is not nice for anyone. And after you’ve lost your way, immediate guilt sets in, over nasty things you might have said or a raised volume you never wanted to hear. But try not to be too hard on yourself; remember, it’s tough right now. We’re not perfect people. It will get better. In the meantime, try to figure out ways to help yourself stay calm. How to Calm Your Mood Everyone reaches burnout and breaking point, when they take on too much. Try and do the following to alleviate the pressure… Take Care of You Spend at least half an hour a day doing something for yourself. If it’s tricky to get out of the house, get a mobile therapist to do your nails or hair. Do a face mask, read a book or do some gentle exercise. It doesn’t need to be big, but just a small thing will help. Get Outside and See People Of course, The Mum Club events are great for that, but they’re not every day. So make sure you walk, get a coffee, feed the ducks or arrange to see others. Fresh air and human interaction are so healing, so push yourself out and go. Walk Away If you feel like your blood is boiling and you’re about to pop (or you’ve popped), try to walk away from the situation. Whether it’s a crying baby that won’t stop or a husband, mother or toddler that’s being irrational. Take a breath, and then go back into the room when you feel calmer. It might not always work but removing yourself from a situation that’s causing you stress is better than staying and imploding. View this post on Instagram A post shared by allison (@_allisonjasinski) Work Out Temporary Affordable Childcare If you can’t ask for help, then pay for help. Find local gym creches. Some only cost about £4/5 an hour and take children as young as 8 weeks – and usually you don’t have to be a member. And if you don’t want to leave your baby, get a babysitter to come over for a few hours. It’s so common in other countries, but for some reason, lots of UK mums have decided they have to do it alone. Maybe it’s because our mums never got help and we feel like we’re failing. But no ones situation is the same and if you don’t have support, then there’s nothing wrong with paying £20-30, to get some things done. Or to just have a nap. The bonus is that when you feel comfortable with that person, you can get them over and you can leave the house and go and do something on your own, or with your partner. At The Mum Club we say “If you don’t have a village, then build one!” It’s quite literally our mission. Relax and go easy on yourself Remember that being a parent is the one thing that nobody is perfect at. If today isn’t working out so well, take a breath and remember there’s always tomorrow. View this post on Instagram A post shared by THE MUM CLUB™️ (@themumclub)
Beat Stress By Adding These 5 Things Into Your DietRead More Try incorporating some of these foods into your diet to help relieve stress naturally. Post author By The Mum Club Post date 9 September 2024 Beat Stress By Adding These 5 Things Into Your Diet Try incorporating some of these foods into your diet to help relieve stress naturally. 1. The Breakfast Not just a warming breakfast, oatmeal (porridge) is a comforting complex carb and has the ability to help reduce stress by releasing serotonin, which helps us to relax. Want to give your body even more calming benefits? Add some antioxidant-rich berries, which are packed with fibre and Vitamin C and help normalize blood pressure and cortisol levels which affect stress. Recipe 2. The Supplement Who knew a tiny gummie could help with stress management? These clever little sweet like supplements use Ashwagandha to help you maintain healthy cortisol levels and foster a sense of calm, and reduce stress. Buy Now 3. The Sweet Treat We’ll take any excuse to eat chocolate but dark chocolate in particular helps reduce stress by lowering cortisol. It’s lower in caffiene than milk chocolate, so better for you. And it’s also high in antioxidants, which are great for overall health. Buy Now 4. The Evening Meal Calming fatty fish such as salmon and tuna are rich in omega-3s, which help manage cortisol and adrenaline. They also help with low-mood and depression. And if you combine them with (anxiety reducing) asparagus, which is high in iron and folate, your meal will help to stabilise your mood. Recipe 5. The Tea Chamomile tea is a well-known stress reliever that soothes stomach issues and headaches with its calming properties. Add it to your bedtime routine and sip a cup before bed. Buy Now
The Best Places for Mums to Have a Solo TripRead More While it might feel indulgent or spur on the dreaded ‘Mum Guilt’, taking a break is necessary when you’re a parent. And, while we love going with friends or a… Post author By The Mum Club Post date 5 September 2024 The Best Places for Mums to Have a Solo Trip While it might feel indulgent or spur on the dreaded ‘Mum Guilt’, taking a break is necessary when you’re a parent. And, while we love going with friends or a partner, they can be hard to organise. But not sure where to go on your own, and if you’ll feel odd being alone? Why not give one of these places a try… Where to Go If You’ve Never Gone it Alone The Best UK Spas If you’re feeling unsure about a stay away but need a break, then an overnight spa hotel stay is the best place to start. Spas with friends are great but often we spend our days chatting about every subject under the sun. And while friend therapy is awesome. Quiet therapy is sometimes even better. *Just make us a promise and leave your phone in your locker for at least an hour. Our go-to destination is Champney’s Forest Mere. Champneys just get it so right when it comes to creating a relaxed enviroment that urges you to chill. But if you want more inspo, then click the link below. Give Me More A Beach Hotel With Activities That Put You First The Gallivant, East Sussex Morning and evening yoga classes are free at the Gallivant, which is a great way to meet fellow guests (if you want to). There’s also a weekly programme of classes, with everything from wine-tasting to garden tours. So you can combine being sociable with solo walks along Camber Sands beach and trips to the pretty nearby town Rye, where meandering shops and sampling excellent fish and chips await. Plus, if that wasn’t enough, Bamford have also set up residency in their incredible spa. Book Now The Best Place for Anonymity and Exploration Art-otel Battersea, London If you want somewhere that’s packed full of culture and creativity, as well as brilliant restaurants you can comfortably eat alone in. Then London is the place to go. With an array of excellent hotels in the city, our current favourite is the Art-otel, which is just on the outskirts, in Battersea. The hotel has a rooftop pool and spa. In house activities like pottery classes. A great room service menu and tons of things to do, just outside your hotel door. Book Now The Place That Will Make You Feel Like You Again The Body Camp, Mallorca Not just for fitness fanatics. The Body Camp, Mallorca, is the perfect place for mums who have stopped caring for themselves by not exercising, eating or sleeping well. (That’s all of us, right?) While there are lots of workouts and exercise based activities like hikes, bike rides and yoga, all fitness levels are welcome, and positive vibes reign high! You also partake in mindfulness exercises, like boundary and goal settings, which makes you think about what might need to change at home. And brilliantly there’s no focus on weight loss but the food is plant-based, healthy and delicious, so it sets you in good sted for making good habits when you return. Find out more The Perfect Hideaway – That’s Under £150 a Night Taylors Lodge, Buxted Kent Need a night away to just be quiet and still but can’t afford a £300+ spa? Why not reconnect with nature at this unforgettable escape? Taylor’s Lodge is set in beautiful surroundings overlooking a private lake, with a boat, a hammock, deck chairs and a fire pit. Take a book, feed the ducks and soak up the scenery. And if you feel like moving, there’s also nearby walks to Buxted Park and the picturesque Ashdown Forest. Find out more The Culture Trap That’s a Short Plane Away Amsterdam Want to push yourself further than a solo trip to your local spa? This is your PSA to remember you don’t have to wait for someone to invite you on a hen or for your friend WhatsApp group to finally agree on a date, in order for you to travel the world. Set your own rules and book a trip to the brilliant city of Amsterdam where adventure and culture are high on the agenda. Spend your days walking beside the canals, seeing the museums, cycling at vondel park or having great coffee, while doing some beautiful people watching. Book Now A Retreat for New Mums *That Has Childcare (if you need to take them!) Soul Sanctum Retreat Want some alone time but the thought and practicality of leaving your child for a few days is impossible? Why not head to this beautiful retreat in Sussex. Currently, they run mother and baby retreats. However, they will be launching ‘Mum Only’ stays soon. Whether you decide to take your baby or not. Each retreat is about nurturing women through their transition into motherhood and if your baby is with you, the childcare professionals look after them, while you participate in activities like yoga and swimming. *And, when you have holistic treatments! Then after the kiddies are in bed, you’re treated to candlelit sound baths or gentle yoga practice. Yes, it’s expensive, but we figure 9-months of not drinking has probably saved you a LOT! Find out more A Solo Babymoon for Pregnant Mums Mom’z Pregnancy Retreats Like a souped up version of NCT this new luxury retreat enables expectant mums to prepare themselves for motherhood in the most lavish and serene way. With yoga, massages, pampering and birth preparation on the agenda, you’re sure to come away floating. Find out more
I’m a Stylist, and This is How I Got My Style Back After Having a BabyRead More Leading Fashion Stylist Zoe Kozlik explains how she lost the ability to dress herself after having her daughter and how she managed to regain her style. Take some time out… Post author By The Mum Club Post date 2 September 2024 I’m a Stylist, and This is How I Got My Style Back After Having a Baby Leading Fashion Stylist Zoe Kozlik explains how she lost the ability to dress herself after having her daughter and how she managed to regain her style. Everthing I Knew Didn’t Make Sense Anymore “As a fashion stylist & editor, I’ve built a career around dressing people. I’m now 36, and I’ve been styling women since my early 20s, from celebs to real women – of all shapes, sizes and ages. I know how to make people feel good.” “Everyone, except myself, it seems!” I Felt Lost and Stopped Knowing How to Dress Myself “At the end of my pregnancy, I was diagnosed with polyhydramnios, which meant I ballooned into an unrecognisable version of myself (*nothing to do with the daily Ben & Jerry’s’, obviously). And just after having my daughter, I bought a uniform of black baggy items, as I assumed it wouldn’t be long before I was back in my old wardrobe. But after 2 years of mumming, not much had changed; my old clothes were still hanging up unworn and unloved, and I resented my wardrobe. I had totally lost my sense of style, and my temporary ‘Mum Uniform’ wasn’t cutting it anymore. I needed a wardrobe overhaul. But one that wouldn’t cost me thousands. So, I set about on a mission – a whole new wardrobe – but I could only buy from Vinted. And using the money from clothes I’d listed and sold on the platform.” Your First Step to Regaining Your Style “Before I even thought about shopping, I realised I needed to figure out what I was looking for. I’d spent 36 years learning what shapes, colours, and cuts worked for me. And now I had to remove myself from what I instinctively knew about dressing my body and re-wire my brain. So, I treated myself like a client and did the following things.” I Tried on Everything in My Wardrobe Take some time out of your day or evening and start trying things on. Ask yourself these questions. Does it fit? Does it make me feel happy? When was the last time I wore it? Then, make the following piles: Wardrobe Keepers . It fits and makes you feel good. . You honestly feel like you might wear it again. . It doesn’t quite fit, but it means something to you, and you’d be sad to let it go. *Tip: Take the items that don’t fit but you want to keep and put them in vacuum packed bag. So they don’t clutter your wardrobe, or mind, when picking out something to wear. Then make sure you come back to them another season, or year. So you’re not just storing a mass of clothes. Things to Sell . You don’t love or like it that much. . You haven’t worn it in 3+ years. “It’s ok to hold on to memories and cherished items, but if you’re not overly fussed about it and haven’t worn it in 3+ years. Then it’s time to say goodbye. And it’s time to get selling!” No time for Vinted or Ebay? Check out Thrift+, who sell your old clothes for you. Rentable Items Try renting out high-priced items – it’s a great way of keeping hold of things you love without parting with them completely. Look at sites like: Hurr , Rent My Wardrobe and By Rotation Finding Your New Style “Once you’ve started making some money by selling clothes, you’ll be able to spend it. And after trying on your old wardrobe, you should have a slightly better idea of what to shop for. Whenever I’m dressing a new client (and, in this case, myself), i get them to clear out their wardrobe and then we re-organise it to see what they’re missing.” Always Organise in Function “Your life unsuprisingly changes after you have children. My wardrobe was packed with going out clothes and fashion forward pieces and i used to organise it in colour. I now spend a lot more time in jeans and trousers and athlesuire wear. I still go out but it’s just not as often. So instead of treating my wardrobe as a whole, I’ve placed the pieces that I need to access daily. This way it’s easier for me to find a nice outfit to put on. “ Create a Moodboard “Whenever i’m styling someone i make a Pinterest board and add pictures of items and images I like from Instagram and online. Having a visual of what you’d like to look like helps when shopping. I’d also suggest blocking out a few separate mornings or afternoons, where you can go to the shops. You don’t have to purchase. But you do need to be patient. It takes time but it’ll be worth it, as you’ll get to know your body again.” Shopping for a New Wardrobe on Vinted “Because I put in the work into getting to know my shape again, about 75% of the pieces I’ve bought on Vinted have fitted me well. If something hasn’t, then I relist and search again.” View this post on Instagram A post shared by Zoë Kozlik (@zoekozlik) “The algorithm on Vinted is pretty good. I spend a lot of time liking items and searching for my favourite brands, which ensures that my “recommended for you” section is always filled with pieces I love. I’ve made nearly £5000 on Vinted, and I’ve got myself a colourful, fun wardrobe filled with my favourite brands: Ganni, Damson Madder, Stine Goya, Topshop, etc…I finally feel like myself again!” Our Favourite Pieces on Vinted We’ve had a little scour, and some seriously great items are available to buy on vinted right now. Tupelo Honey Maxi Dress Free People £32.20 Cotton Poplin Bow Dress Ganni £163.45 Riley Jeans Agolde £72.10 Leopard Print Top Asos £16.45 Hotel Magique Collab Jumper Sezane £42.70 Cream Quilted Jacket The Frankie Shop £100.45
What to Wear This WeekRead More It’s the first week of September and we’re shopping for knits. Come for us! All products on this page have been selected by our editorial team, however, we may make… Post author By The Mum Club Post date 2 September 2024 What to Wear This Week It’s the first week of September and we’re shopping for knits. Come for us! Knit Sweater Zara £59.99 Vanille Antique Parfume Byredo £280 Square Hoop Earrings Daisy London £85 Tapered Jeans COS £85 Buckle Bag Mango £35.99 Embellished Ballet Flats H&M £37.99 All products on this page have been selected by our editorial team, however, we may make a commission on some products.
Healthy Breakfast IdeasRead More Whatever happens throughout the day – let’s start it right! Post author By The Mum Club Post date 2 September 2024 Healthy Breakfast Ideas Whatever happens throughout the day – let’s start it right! The High Protein One A quick and easy healthy high protein breakfast that the whole family can enjoy. Recipe The One You can Have on The Go The no-bake healthy granola bars that are great for on-the-go. Recipe The One With Coffee in It Getting your caffein fix has never been yummier. Recipe The One You Can Throw Together Simple, delicious and quick to make. Breakfast bowls are the perfect way to get all the good stuff together into one glorious creation. Recipe
The Hotlist: The Best Things to Do in SeptemberRead More Post author By The Mum Club Post date 29 August 2024 The Hotlist: The Best Things to Do in September We’re not sure how it’s September already. But this month’s activities are anything but glum… Find Fun Things to Do Fast Loopla Uk Whenever we need to find something fun to do, we always head to Loopla. It’s a platform made for parents who want to explore and connect with the best activities and experiences for children in London. Instead of scouring the internet, and giving up because it takes too long to book a ticket, Loopla brings you nearby entertainment options in minutes, not hours. Best part? It’s Run by Mums and Dads who get it. The founder, Sophia, is a Mum of two we’d grab coffee with anytime! And we’re so excited to announce that we’re now partnering with Loopla to GIVEAWAY exclusive monthly experiences for your whole family! To find out more, head to their Instagram, give them, and us a follow and click on THE MUM CLUB X LOOPLA GIVEAWAY button on the link in their bio. Enter Here Head to the FRIENDS Experience (*For free on LOOPLA) FRIENDS London The FRIENDS Experience is now in London. And thanks to Loopla. This month we’re giving away a VIP photoshoot and free tickets for 5 lucky TMC winners for a Mums Night Out. The exciting, immersive experience takes place on nostalgic recreated sets, where you can peep through the iconic purple door at Rachel and Monica’s apartment or take a selfie at Central Perk. To enter, head to Loopla’s Instagram. *Give them and us a follow. And click the link in their bio to find THE MUM CLUB X LOOPLA GIVEAWAY entry form. Win Free Tickets Shop Your Transitional Wardrobe… From a warm cover up that you can throw over summer dresses, to the bag that everyone wants. These are the items we’re lusting over right now. Santa Croc Big Red Dragon Diffusion £375 Serenity Pearl Charm Hoops Astrid & Miyu £85 Emile Cardigan Sézane £130 Watch This… The Perfect Couple, Netflix, 2nd September This looks so good and has a star studded cast, including Nicole Kidman and Liev Schreiber. The story is about a lavish wedding that comes to a hault because a dead body is found on the beach. Expect high drama, glamour and a gripping plot. Watch the trailer Selling Sunset Season 8, Netflix 6th September We blitzed the last series in what felt like a day. So we’re so happy that they’re back as we love watching all the drama and outfits. And this season looks bitchier than ever. *We can’t wait! Watch the trailer Slow Horses Season 4, Apple TV, 4th September If you haven’t already watched this series, then it’s time to catch up. We were completely enthralled by the last 3 seasons and we’re so excited that season 4 is coming back to Apple TV this month. Watch the trailer Read This… Beautiful Chaos By Jessica Urlichs We are huge fans of Jessica Urlichs’ poetry and this book actually came out earlier this year but we’ve only just got round to reading it. And we can confirm it’s as good as we expected. The perfect read for new mums or mums who feel overwhelmed by small children. It helps you feel reflective and supported without being preachy or overpowering. Buy now Find Out About Our Autumn Events The Mum Club Events Wow! What a summer! We’ve loved seeing you at all our picnic and walking clubs, aswell as our exclusive events, and of course Camp Bestival. And we can’t wait to see you over the coming months – and dare we say it Christmas! Find out what’s next Drink a Lychee Martini The Drinks Bureau Lychee Martini Cocktails Lychee Martinis are making a comeback. Drank by Kim K, who revealed it’s her favourite cocktail at Nobu. The ’90s classic will return this autumn and is set to knock our beloved Spicy Margs off the top spot. If you fancy becoming the first to try the trend, then The Drinks Bureau is the place to purchase with a delicious array of pre-mixed cans and boxes on offer. Buy Now Subscribe to This… The Birthing Class Celebrity Pilates Instructor Jacqui Kingswell, and Entrepreneur Natasha Oakley are bringing the best level of care for new and expectant mums with the launch of The Birthing Class. The new platform provides expectant and new mums with courses and classes to support them through birth and beyond. With over 100+ videos on topics like, yoga, nutrition, pilates, pre- and post-natal advice and recipes. Plus, subscribers also receive direct access to experts doulas and nutritionists. Find out more Win a Spa Day Aldi’s Specialbuy Spa Day To celebrate kids going back to school, Aldi is offering tired parents the chance to win a spa day. All you have to do is email them a funny story from your summer holiday with the kids. And 100 parents will be chosen from the entries and will win a voucher worth £75 to spend at a Bannatyne spa. *Entries close on the 6th September. To enter, send your funny story to: AldiSpaDay@Clarioncomms.co.uk
Reviewed by Us: RyRy Car SeatRead More Reviewed by: Rose Riley, Franchise Quality Coordinator This product was gifted to our editorial team. However, this review has not been paid for, and we always offer honest reviews. Post author By The Mum Club Post date 26 August 2024 Reviewed by Us: RyRy Car Seat Reviewed by: Rose Riley, Franchise Quality Coordinator Pros Easy installation Portable Can be moved easily between vehicles or taken on holiday . Sleek design Fits across three seats Cons Not much padding provided Merino wool covers What is it? The RyRy Scallop car seat is a portable car seat suitable for ages 15 months to 4 years. It is designed to be moved between vehicles or used abroad as it can be folded up into its own travel bag. Overall Thoughts… “I love this seat. It’s great for families who require a portable, compact car seat. Perhaps you visit go abroad often, use taxis, or just need a car seat that can be easily moved between vehicles. At 9kg it’s still pretty heavy, but much lighter than competitors as it does not require an Isofix base to be installed. “ What is it and how do you use it? “As a novice car seat installer, I was really impressed by how easy this was to set up. The Scallop has built-in Isofix connectors on the back that just need to be pushed and clicked into place. You can then choose to top tether or seatbelt it to ensure safety and security. The Scallop comes with a zip up storage bag which you can attach straps to so that it can be carried around like a backpack – again this is a useful feature if you are a regular plane or train traveller and need access to a car seat.” Is it worth the money? “At £349 the RyRy Scallop is expensive but does have several versatile features and means you save in the long run if you travel often and want your own car seat. However, you can only use it forward-facing, which will not suit all families.” Would you recommend it? “The foldable sleek design is impressive, and this is a great purchase for families who need a portable car seat or space for three car seats next to each other. At first, I was worried that my son would not find it comfortable compared to his usual Maxi Cosi Pearl car seat. However, even though the merino wool covers are a little tricker to wipe clean, they are incredibly soft and my son looks so comfy and loves napping in this seat.” Where to Buy it… RyRy Scallop Compact Car Seat Buy it now This product was gifted to our editorial team. However, this review has not been paid for, and we always offer honest reviews.
Outfits That Make You Look Instantly Put TogetherRead More The ultimate casual school run outfit = A tracksuit. Because let’s face it we’d all live in them if we could! For a sleeker, slightly more polished look, adding a… Post author By The Mum Club Post date 23 August 2024 Outfits That Make You Look Instantly Put Together When you’re nursery or school run *NOT ready… Keeping it comfy The ultimate casual school run outfit = A tracksuit. Because let’s face it we’d all live in them if we could! Heavy Weight T shirt Arket £37 Relaxed Cotton Sweatpants Arket £57 Sporty Cotton Socks Arket £9 530 Trainers New Balance £110 Oversized Sweatshirt H&M £17.99 Looking like you’ve made more effort than you have For a sleeker, slightly more polished look, adding a trench coat over a black silhouette is the way to go. Chuck on sunglasses to cover up those tired eyes from the multiple wake-ups from the kids! Cat-eye acetate sunglasses Celine £340 Relaxed Jersey Hoodie COS £75 Samba OG Trainers Adidas £95 Power High-Waisted Gym Leggings Sweaty Betty £88 Single-Breasted Trench Coat & Other Stories £165 Ready for more than lounging If you want to feel a bit more dressed and less in activewear then jeans and a strappy top layered with a shirt are the perfect alternative. High Waist Jeans Zara £27.99 Arizona Sandals Birketstock £90 Strappy Top Massimo Dutti £35.95 Medium Hoop Earrings Missoma £119 Oversized denim shirt H&M £32.99 Could be doing exercise, could not be.. For a more Autumnal transitional outfit, you can’t go wrong with layers. Adding burgundy and browns to tie in with the changing seasons to add some interest. Oversized T-shirt Arket £29 Apple Watch Series 9 Apple £349 Highrise Leggings Adanola £45 SL 72 RS Trainers Adidas £90 Oversized Funnel-Neck Sweatshirt Adanola £59.99 All products on this page have been selected by our editorial team, however, we may make a commission on some products. Tags 2minuteread, newDesign, Parktimestrollandscroll
