I'm a commuting mom working in fashion—here are the 7 simple pieces I always choose to look stylish.

      Tessa Faye O’Connell is a contributor recognized for her contributions to various fashion houses in media and public relations, currently serving as the global PR director at Coach. She is a mother of two, working to broaden her influence in the fashion industry through styling while also striving to leave the house on time. With over a decade of experience in fashion and a closet overflowing with clothes, I’ve realized that no amount of garments could prepare me for the challenge of getting ready with limited time while managing two little ones at home. My once-relaxed routine of 45 minutes to an hour to prepare has now been reduced to just five minutes to get dressed and head out. Since the birth of my second daughter, I’ve explored various ways to organize my life as a commuting mom, and "winging it" often left me feeling disheveled, scattered, and unprepared. There’s nothing quite like the satisfaction of feeling good in your outfit, catching your train on time, and working a full day in the city to truly make you feel like superwoman—supermom. Here, I am excited to share my outfit folder.

      I’ve started finding small pockets of time, often after the girls are asleep (what I like to call revenge bedtime), to sift through my closet and curate outfits that I can store in an organized folder for different work scenarios, ensuring I’m ready in the morning. The coordination covers various styles: a rainy-day commuting outfit, an elevated working mom look, comfy cute options, and even business chic attire. Organizing these outfits in a folder has given me the preparation (and sanity) needed to get ready in those five precious minutes.

      Some of my most treasured pieces are those that are essential to my favorite outfit combinations. These are the items that work well in any situation and seamlessly blend with almost everything else in my closet: silk trousers, button-downs, ideal crisp denim, a suede jacket, the perfect layering T-shirt, and beautiful beige sweaters. While the list is extensive, I’ve gathered some core favorites that have made it possible for me to get ready as a commuting mom of two—not only bearable but, dare I say, enjoyable.

      **Striped Button-Down Shirt**

      This item has come to my rescue countless times. Whether worn open with a T-shirt over jeans, closed over silk pants, or styled with a bump during pregnancy, it remains a staple in my wardrobe. Though I have a few preferred variations, this item is always reliable and helps me feel more put together.

      - **leset** Yoshi Classic Oversized Button Down

      - **J.Crew** Étienne Oversized Shirt

      - **The Frankie Shop** Sylvia Striped Oxford Shirt

      - **Gap** Organic Cotton Poplin Big Shirt

      - **Frank & Eileen** Shirley Shirt

      **Black Pull-On Pants**

      One of the essential pieces I’ve grown to appreciate is the black pull-on pant. There are myriad variations available for women, but my current favorite is the La Ligne Colby pants. They work effortlessly when paired with either sneakers on a rainy day or boots for an elevated look.

      - **DONNI.** The Linen Simple Pants

      - **Ruti** The On the Loose Work Pants

      - **Leset** Barb Wide Leg Pants

      **Suede Jacket**

      It wasn’t until this year that I understood the potential of a suede jacket. While it’s not suitable for bad weather, it instantly enhances any outfit.

      - **Madewell** Boxy-Crop Jacket in Suede

      - **Coach** Sculpted C Suede Jacket

      - **dissh** Denver Bitter Chocolate Suede

      **Cardigan Set**

      What could be better than an outfit that’s essentially complete once you put it on? Enter the cardigan set. Instantly stylish and always comfortable, these sets come in various fabrics and styles, making them my go-to when I want to look polished while remaining cozy.

      - **DONNI.** The Sweater Rib Cardi

      - **DONNI.** The Sweater Rib Shell

      **Straight-Leg Jeans**

      My biggest shopping challenge and most frequently worn item are denim jeans. Finding the right fit for one’s body type takes time, but a classic straight leg is always a safe choice.

      - **Citizens of Humanity** Winslow Boyfriend Long

      - **Still Here** Everyday in Classic Blue

      - **Agolde** 90's Mid Rise Straight

      - **Reformation** Val 90s Mid Rise Straight Jeans

      - **Pistola** Lexi Mid Rise Bowed Straight Jeans

      **Denim Shirt**

      Along with jeans, a perfect denim shirt is essential. My husband may think I have too many, but I believe you can never have enough. Denim pairs well with denim, black trousers, or the perfect crisp white T-shirt.

      - **Citizens of Humanity** Cropped Denim Shirt

      **Mini Bag**

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