Mom Style Secrets: BeautyMommy Kristina Clemens

After years of shame and denial, I am ready to come clean on a painful subject. I am not crafty. Well, I am, but not in the good way. 😉 I have a stylish mom who can sew and knit beautifully and a sister who has refinished her own furniture and created gorgeous projects for her home, and I can’t scrawl on a blackboard in a legible way. I can’t even sew on a button. It’s a serious bummer for someone who is as passionate as I am about fashion to be unable to sew. And knit. And design, for that matter. That’s why I am obsessed with the designs of DIY fashionistas like Kristina Clemens of Kristina J: A DIY Style Blog. She designs. She sews. And she’s even the author of The Chic Girl’s Guide to a One of a Kind Wardrobe. Oh, and she’s a mom of 3. Don’t know how she does it all, but I’m taking notes as she spills her mom style secrets right here.

Kristina creates chic, wearable designs, and inspires others to do the same.

How long does it take you to get ready in the morning?

I can generally get ready in about 20-30 minutes because I stick to my formula. A dress or skirt with layers. I simply switch out flats or pumps during warmer months for booties and boots in winter.

What are your favorite shops/brands?

I fall for Anthropologie every time, but love to get basics at Ann Taylor LOFT.

How has motherhood changed your style?

I think being a mommy has made my personal style better. I’m more deliberate about it now. There’s a plan because there has to be with being responsible for the wardrobes of three little kiddos!

Name 5 things you can’t live without.

Chapstick. Lotion. Biolage Gelee. Knee-high riding boots. Cross-body bags.

 Do you wear makeup every day?

Yes. I always wear coverup and sunscreen. My favorite products right now tend to be from Mary Kay and Maybelliene.

Where do you look for fashion inspiration?

I really like Pinterest and am always inspired by the gamine style of Kirsten Dunst.

What is your go-to mom look? Any mom style secrets?

I like a great printed shirtdress with a blazer or cardi thrown over.  A cross-body bag and great shoes finish off the look.

What is one thing you do every day to pamper yourself?

I have dry skin, so I use body lotion every single day to keep from looking flaky.

Kristina Clemens favors shirtdresses, crossbody bags and knee high boots.

If you could only apply one makeup item, what would it be?

Brown mascara.

Favorite denim brand?

I like GAP denim.

Color, neutrals, or both?

Definitely color! I have a color beast inside!

Name the one signature accessory you are never seen without.

A great watch.

I’m so inspired my Kristina’s designs! Here, a recap of her top mom style secrets:

• 1. A fashion formula makes getting dressed a breeze!
• 2. Accessories, like great knee high boots and a crossbody bag, add style to everything you own.
• 3. Beauty basics, like concealer, lip balm and mascara, make you look groomed and polished.