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Relaxed blazer
Layers are great for overly air-conditioned offices, but if you're running to a play date after leaving work you don't want to wear anything too constricting. A relaxed-fit blazer cuts a sharp silhouette without restricting your mobility. You can shed the jacket once you leave work if the temperature permits. Pair it with a ruffled blouse, patterned pants, blush-colored pumps, and little gold earrings for a look that's both playful and professional.
Emerge Tiered Top (Ezibuy.com, $27); Tall Black Relaxed Boyfriend Blazer (Dorothy Perkins, $59); Rose-print Silk Trousers (MatchesFashion.com $727); Dolce & Gabbana Blush-Pink Patent Leather Pumps (Ssense, $640); Women's Gold Twisted Small Hoop Earrings (Brooks Brothers, $45)
Shirtdress
Working moms are often swamped, so simplicity is key when it comes to the details. Is there anything simpler than a chambray shirtdress? The short answer is "Nope." Shirtdresses manage to walk that fine line between casual and professional, plus they're super comfy. Accessorize simply with pointy-toed nude flats, a skinny brown belt and a gold lace cuff for a classic look that carries you effortlessly into an evening full of playtime.
Joie Belted Chambray Shirtdress (IntermixOnline.com, $268); Lilly & Franc Nude Pointed Wedge Pumps (Dorothy Perkins, $39); Casted Lace Bangle (Boticca, $185)
Printed button-down
The button-down shirt is an obvious office staple. But what's even better is a button-down shirt in a print. Unexpected and refreshing, the printed button-down makes a statement. After work you can roll up the sleeves so it won't get in your way while you corral the kids. Pair this palm tree version with a flared black skirt and burgundy satchel for a bit of play-date-appropriate whimsy.
Print Button-Down Shirt (MyTheresa.com, $296); Kaneo Black Laser-Cut Skirt (Reiss.com, $240); Clemence Satchel (Jigsaw, $165)
Statement coat
The best part about a statement coat is how deceptive it is. Your outfit below can be super simple (and comfy) but as long as you have that coat on, your look is flawless. Wear a black-and-gray color-blocked version with a pop of berry purple and a gold necklace peeking out from behind the collar. A stretch fabric pencil skirt is figure flattering but won't prevent you from moving around easily.
Violet Contrast Silk Shirt (ForeverNew.com, $90); Black Grey Boyfriend Contrast Coat (OwntheRunway.com, $76); Heidi Pencil Skirt (Whistles.com, $85); ARAFRANCA Necklace (Call it Spring, $15)
Peter Pan collar dress
Peter Pan collars add a sweet element to otherwise basic dresses and shirts. Wear this baby-blue version with a comfy-cute pair of oxfords and a chunky cardigan sweater for a chic office uniform that doubles as an adorable outfit for after school. The other parents will be so impressed by your ability to look so put together, especially when they notice that edgy nail bracelet on your wrist.
Contrast Collar Shift Dress (Dorothy Perkins, $57); Beige Boyfriend Knit Cardigan (Dorothy Perkins, $29); Minimarket Cutout Oxford (AshburySkies.com, $129); Nail It Bracelet (Jewliq.com, $25)
Check out more super-mom fashion with these links:
Mom style: How to add a little funk to your wardrobe
From power-meeting to play-date: Double-duty fashion moms
Easy spring style updates for Mom