Playing dress up is a hallmark of childhood, and what is more special than when your daughter dresses up like her favorite superhero – mom! It’s hard to be upset when she ruffles through your closet and makeup, emerging with the long arms of your favorite sweater dangling and your favorite necklace as her chosen accessory! Show her the next level of “dress up” by surprising her with matching outfits. Mommy and me outfits are a great way to bond while having fun. Let’s look at five styles.

The wild side

Mommy and me outfits that feature leopard or animal print are perfect for the fierce little girl – and mom – that doesn’t let anything stand in her way. If you are animal lovers this could be a great, fashionable option! Animal print reflects a grounded yet incredibly confident nature.

Laid back retro

The “good old days?” Every day can be a good day! Think tie dye prints for mommy and me outfits when you and your daughter love lying in the hammock, listening to the birds, walking barefoot on the lawn, and taking soup over to the neighbors. Tie dye says “relaxed, nature-forward, caring.”

Boho beauties

Like tie dye, boho is a style that speaks to being grounded and natural, but has a quirkier, fun edge. In the early 2000s, icons Sienna Miller, Kate Moss and the Olsen twins brought boho-chic to the forefront. Emulate this style with your daughter. Boho mommy and me outfits feature flattering, flowing styles; floral patters; and are incredibly comfortable.

Formal

Attend weddings, graduations, Christmas parties and other events with matching formal mommy and me outfits. Gone are the days when formalwear meant tight and uncomfortable. Instead, mommy and me outfits that are suitable for elevated occasions can be loose and flowing, using expert tailoring and draping fabrics to create flattering silhouettes without ever sacrificing comfort.

Casual camo

You don’t have to be sitting in a deer blind to appreciate a good camo print! Casual camo is showing up in ladies and girls’ styles because it’s a fun print. When used on a dress, it shows that the wearer is strong and capable without the need to resort to menswear to get her point across. Mommy and me outfits featuring camo prints are a great way to show off a confident style.

You found the perfect mommy and me outfit. Now what?

Once you have the mommy and me outfit that suits both of your personalities, why not plan a special day for just the two of you? Depending on what you like to do, consider wearing your outfits:

• Out for a mom and me brunch

• Head down to the local petting zoo

• Spa day! Some nail salons have specific tween or youth-appropriate manicures

• Get your hair done then have a professional photoshoot

Where to get mommy and me outfits?

Browsing online or on mega-shopping e-commerce sites will bring up plenty of mommy and me outfits but do be careful. Look for a place that curates exclusive prints and focuses on easy-wear dresses that are still incredibly stylish and comfortable. Also ensure that the store focuses on appropriate wear and steers away from the “costume” aspect that can be prevalent in matching outfits. The goal is mommy and me outfits that are timeless, can be worn for many different occasions, that add mileage to the wardrobe, and are high quality.

Giving back

Look for more than just the outfits when choosing mommy and me dresses. In this day and age of consumerism and commercialism, let alone mass-produced goods from factories where the workers may not enjoy safe conditions, “voting with your dollars” is more important than ever. Your purchases can reflect your commitment to social good; so, also look for a company that gives back to community, is local and is ethical.

Mommy and me outfits – special moments to treasure

When you find the mommy and me outfits that match you and your daughter’s personality, and you purchase those outfits from a local, ethical designer focused on giving back, the impact is felt for you, your family, your community, and beyond.