Summer is finally here, and if you’re anything like me, you’re probably pulling out storage bins, sorting through clothes, and figuring out what still fits from last year.
I’ve never really been a fashion person. While some people love following trends and updating their wardrobe every season, I’ve always taken a much more practical approach. As a single mum, I have other priorities, and I’d rather spend money on my daughter than constantly buy new clothes for myself.
That doesn’t mean I don’t enjoy adding a few new pieces to my wardrobe each summer. It just means I’m careful about what I buy and how much I spend.
Rotating My Wardrobe Each Season
One thing that helps keep my clothing budget under control is rotating my wardrobe throughout the year.
When summer arrives, I bring out my vacuum-sealed storage bags and go through everything I packed away the previous year. Before anything goes back into my closet, I try it on to make sure it still fits and that it’s something I’ll actually wear.
If an item no longer fits, has holes, or is looking worse for wear, it’s time to let it go. If it’s still comfortable and in good condition, it gets another season of life.
I don’t see the point in replacing clothing that still does its job. Some of my favourite pieces have been in my wardrobe for years, including an old T-shirt from Old Navy that my mum has never liked but that I still wear every summer.
Comfort Always Comes First
black and hashed beige top
When it comes to summer fashion, comfort wins every time.
Most weekends are spent entertaining my four-year-old daughter. Whether we’re heading to a playground, visiting a splash pad, running errands, or simply spending time outdoors, I need clothes that allow me to move comfortably and keep up with an active child.
My typical summer outfit is usually quite simple:
- Capris
- Loose-fitting T-shirts
- Comfortable shoes
- Lightweight layers when needed
I rarely wear dresses, although I do own a flowing caftan-style dress that I’ve received compliments on in the past. Most days, however, you’ll find me reaching for practical clothing rather than anything particularly fashionable.
Why My Closet Is Mostly Black
If you opened my closet today, you would probably notice one thing immediately: a lot of black.
There are a few reasons for that.
I find black flattering, easy to match, and practical for everyday life. As a mum, spills, dirt, and mystery marks seem to appear out of nowhere. I recently wore a white outfit and quickly remembered why I don’t own many of them—it ended up covered in marks before the day was over.
That said, I do try to add a little colour here and there. You’ll occasionally find blue or white pieces mixed into my wardrobe, but black remains my go-to choice.
Shopping Smart Instead of Shopping Expensive
Years ago, I used to spend more money on clothing. I remember buying Ralph Lauren tops from The Bay and believing that higher prices automatically meant better quality.
As I’ve gotten older, my perspective has changed.
I’ve learned that just because something has a well-known brand name attached to it doesn’t automatically make it better than a more affordable option. Likewise, affordable clothing shouldn’t automatically be dismissed because of where it comes from.
These days, I shop around before making purchases. Amazon, Walmart, and Temu are usually my first stops when I’m looking for new summer pieces.
My Experience With Temu
I know Temu often receives mixed reviews online, but personally, I’ve had a largely positive experience.
Most of the items I’ve purchased have been tops, and many of them have lasted surprisingly well. The designs are often what catch my attention first, along with the fit, sleeve length, neckline, and overall comfort.
Of course, not every purchase has been perfect.
One of my biggest frustrations with online shopping in general is sizing. Sometimes an item arrives much smaller than it appeared online, and I’ve definitely had a few tops that didn’t fit as expected.
However, I’ve found Temu’s customer service to be efficient, and I’ve had positive experiences when dealing with reimbursements.
Buying Less but Buying Better
I don’t buy dozens of new clothing items every summer.
Typically, I purchase somewhere between five and ten pieces throughout the season. Sometimes that’s because I genuinely need replacements for worn-out items. Other times, if I’ve had a particularly good week—or even a particularly bad one—I might treat myself to something new.
For me, it’s less about following trends and more about finding pieces that I’ll actually wear.
A successful clothing purchase is one that:
- Fits properly
- Feels comfortable
- Matches other items I already own
- Survives multiple washes
- Lasts longer than a single season
If it checks those boxes, I’m happy.
My Advice for Other Single Mums
If I could offer one piece of advice to other single mums trying to refresh their summer wardrobe, it would be this: shop around and be methodical.
You don’t need an entirely new wardrobe every year.
Start by going through what you already own. Try things on. Keep the pieces that still fit and make you feel comfortable. Replace only what needs replacing.
Look beyond brand names and focus on value. Sometimes the most expensive item isn’t the best option, and sometimes an affordable purchase ends up becoming a favourite for years.
Most importantly, choose clothing that works for your real life—not the life you see on social media.
Final Thoughts
Affordable summer fashion doesn’t have to mean sacrificing comfort or style.
As a single mum, my goal isn’t to have a picture-perfect wardrobe. My goal is to have clothing that fits well, feels comfortable, lasts through countless washes, and helps me keep up with my daughter.
Every summer, I rotate what I already own, replace what no longer works, and add a few carefully chosen pieces along the way.
It may not be the most fashionable approach, but it’s one that works for me—and for this season of life, that’s more than enough.
If you liked reading this blog post as much as I enjoyed writing it, you may enjoy reading these other blog posts:
Affordable fashion for women: 2026 trends that work for single mums
UK vs Canadian Fashion: British-Inspired Wardrobe Staples Every Mum Needs
10 Easy Spring Outfits for Busy Mums You Can Throw Together in Under 5 Minutes
I share more real-life moments from single motherhood, Ontario adventures, everyday style, food finds, and behind-the-scenes blogging over on Instagram.
Come say hello: @lifeofgem28
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