As a mom of three young children, I’m perpetually in pursuit of these three mythical goals: 1. consuming a morning coffee while it’s still warm; 2. capturing a family photo with everyone grinning; 3. locating outfits that make me feel adorable and comfy as I lift, carry, rock, and dash with (and after) my children.
Naturally, a T-shirt and leggings can accomplish the task. But at seven months postpartum, I’m eager to escape from spandex! So, recently while getting ready for my daughter Ella’s softball game, I set myself two guidelines: wear green to align with Ella’s team’s hue and avoid T-shirts FOR THE LOVE OF GOD.
I then noticed and slipped on a top I’d never tried before: this button-up camp shirt.
Jump to two hours later. My family and I are perched on the sidelines of a hot, dusty baseball field, observing a cluster of five-year-old girls chasing after a softball. I’m holding my baby, Evelynn, in my arms as the sun beams down. I come to terms with the reality that I’m about to have the world’s largest sweat marks.
But here’s the twist. By the game’s end, I don’t feel sticky, and there are no sweat stains in sight. Instead, I feel cool and dare I say… fresh? Also, as I scoop up a rosy-cheeked Ella in my arms to congratulate her, my midriff remains completely covered. Below is a photo of me feeling confident in the shirt, after the game and a visit to the ice cream shop with the kids.
What renders this shirt so magical is the design and fabric: it’s made with a sweat-wicking material yet retains that classic camp shirt essence. It carries all the benefits of a workout top without resembling one. The next occasion we have a family outing, I plan to embrace full camp counselor vibes and pair this shirt with high-rise khaki shorts and a bandana. Here are more camp shirts I’m eyeing, crafted from other lightweight and breathable materials:
Thoughts? How cool would it be if we all showed up to a Cup of Jo gathering wearing our beloved camp shirts? What other styles make you feel beautiful and comfortable these days?
P.S. Joanna’s mom’s style and five holy grail beauty products.
