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What to wear for a day date, AKA a parents’ night out.

The other day I saw a viral video to the tune of Justin Bieber’s “Sorry” with a “This is 40” theme.  The basic premise was that, as parents, we go out early and come home in time for bed at 9:30.  Orlando and I aren’t 40 years old yet, but our dating habits are eerily similar.  A day date is easier with little ones at home, and it means we’re still home in time for bedtime stories.  The tricky part, for me at least, is what to wear.  You can’t look like you’re headed to the club, but you’d also prefer for your significant other to at least be slightly attracted to you at the same time! This is a date, after all, some effort should be required.

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On this particular date we were headed to see The Revenant, which to be honest seemed like a great movie to fall asleep to, but it turned out to be pretty great.  And for the love of Pete, somebody give Leo the Oscar already.  The poor guy deserves it.  I chose a comfy pair of distressed jeans, and a crop top that I’ve owned for maybe five years and worn approximately three times.  I bought it RIGHT before we found out I was expecting Cora, and it seemed weird to wear while expecting.  Then it took me a long time to be comfortable in my postpartum skin.  I’m really just now coming to terms with the fact that my body will never be exactly how it was before kids, so I better just go ahead and love it for what it is.  And that means being comfortable showing just a little midriff every now and again.  Maybe it means something different for you, but I’m too tired and go on too few dates to care what others think.

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This crossbody actually came as a attachment with a larger beach tote I picked up from Apricot Lane during our Holiday Party, but I’ve been wearing it separate pretty frequently.  It’s the perfect size here in Cancun for a quick errand with the kids, and I like the extra security of having it close to my body.  When we first lived in Mexico for Orlando’s work I never really paid attention to my surroundings or worried about anything happening, but the older the girls get the more aware I’m becoming.  Mainly, I think, because I want to be able to keep an eye on them without worrying that someone is sneaking away with my wallet while I’m distracted.  Regardless, it also made for a good companion at the movies when you only need a few essentials and you’re leaving the kids and cares behind.

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Lately my style has been trending more towards bohemian, and I think it’s reflected in my jewelry choices as well.  I’m piling things on (by my minimalist standards, anyway), and I’m loving dainty, earthy necklaces.  Paired with an off-the-shoulder top I think I looked ready for a backpacking trip through South America, but it’s that free spirit look that’s really capturing my attention these days.  That’s the beautiful thing about personal style right? Always evolving and shifting with your life’s practical needs and wistful aspirations.

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Of course for a day date a little makeup was required, but not too over the top.  And I always like just a simple lip for any impromptu kissing that may occur.  It’s two people in love headed out on the town, you know, it’s a very real possibility. 😉 Even if we’re home by nine, it was worth it.

What do you wear for day dates? Do people without kids go out in the middle of the day, too? Tell me what you prefer in the comments!

XO,

A