Lately I’ve been exploring the idea of making my life a bit more luxurious. Wearing clothing that makes me feel fancy. Taking the time to do a “no makeup” makeup look. Adding a few cute accessories to dress up a simple top and bottom. Enjoying a hot coffee while skimming the newspaper. Drinking a glass of wine while I cook dinner. Then I wake up and a remember, I’m a stay-at-home-mom and it’s not possible to do all these things.

I’m going to wear clothing that is comfortable, skip the lipstick and mascara, ditch the accessories that get in the way when I pick up a kid or two, and just hope that today’s the day I get to finish my coffee before it’s cold. And forget enjoying a glass of wine while I cook dinner. Instead I’m just bribing the kids with tortilla chips and Netflix shows in hopes that they to stay out of the kitchen for two seconds so I don’t burn someone when I open the oven or stir a pot. There is definitely nothing luxurious about this situation.

But then I remember…..these are all things I did when I was working full-time. I wore cute clothing, my coffee was never room temperature, and I felt fabulous. How was I doing all of these things less than 20 months ago, and now I struggle to wear a bracelet everyday?!?!

Because I had established a routine. So I’m taking the knowledge from my days as working mom to develop a better routine for myself. When everything is simple, it immediately becomes easier.

Want your clothing to look more presentable? Build a capsule wardrobe! I already have that step completed so I’m challenging myself to wear one additional, fancier piece of jewelry every day. I’m also taking the time to iron when needed and adding an extra styling touch, like a half tuck of a top or a rolled jean leg.

Looking to elevate your beauty routine? Pick a no-fuss hair style and create a “no makeup” makeup look! I keep my hair long with some layers at the bottom and no color because this allows me to only visit the salon once every 3-6 months, and I can easily air dry my hair. For extra sleekness I’m now touching up my ends with a 2″ curling wand every couple of days. It adds a small bend at the ends that is a reminiscent of a fresh blow out. I’m also working in a light concealer, highlighter, and cream blush to my skincare routine.

Yearning to drink your coffee/tea in peace? Get up before everyone else! I already wake up before the sun for barre class so I set my alarm 10 minutes earlier to allow for time to slowing drink a warm water with lemon, journal, and meditate before heading out the door to the studio. Now that I have this morning reflection time, I don’t mind that I may have to drink my coffee in chaos.

Ready to unwind with a glass of wine while you cook dinner? Just pour the wine in an inconspicuous cup (I use a mason jar with a sippy top and a koozie) and enjoy! This one is actually not that difficult. The great part about wine is regardless of the setting when you start drinking it, once you’ve finished a glass, you’re already in a better mood! 😉 Make the experience even more festive, pour the kids a cup of juice or milk (so they’re not reaching for yours), put on some music (we’re partial to the “Moana” sountrack right now), and dance around the kitchen while you cook.

I hope these suggestions help inspire you to add a bit more luxury to your routine. The hard work is building the habit of your routine, but once it’s in place, you’ll be feeling a bit more luxurious in no time.