Personal style can be a tricky beast, and when you throw kids into the mix, more often than not getting dressed tends to be more about survival than style. Which is why we can’t get enough of mums who seem to combine work and kids with a seriously impressive knack for putting together outfits that are just right. That clever balance of inspiring yet relatable, high mixed with low, and effortless yet polished...
Petro Stofberg is a perfect example of a working mum who makes getting dressed in the morning look easy. In fact, it’s no surprise she’s co-founder of Wardrobe Icons, a website that is all about curating a wardrobe filled with forever pieces that never go out of style because she truly does personify the idea of timeless fashion. We’re thrilled to gain access to a week in her wardrobe to see how she approaches personal style every day, and we hope you get as much inspiration out of her styling and shopping tips as we do.
What pieces are currently on high-rotation in your closet?
In winter definitely my Chloe Boots, in Spring my trench coat and in summer my maxi dresses.
What do you currently have in your cart (and from where)?
A J. Crew one piece – I think they do the best ones in my opinion and another pair of Gucci loafers.
Your favourite go-to outfit when you’re with the kids?
T-shirt, jeans, loafers or trainers and a quilted jacket or parka.
Your favourite go-to outfit for a night out?
I love my Joseph leather leggings and a slogan jumper from either Chinti and Parker or Bella Freud, and a great pair of gold hoops.
Your favourite chain store (high street) brand to buy from and why?
Hard to choose just one but I love Topshop for quirky pieces that make an outfit, & Other Stories for Scandi-style everyday wear (you would never guess it was high street), and finally Marks & Spencer for good basics such as lingerie and cashmere.
Outfit 1
This is one of my favourite dresses if I want to be comfortable and smart. It always looks elegant and pulled together no matter what the occasion.
Petro wears Emilia Wickstead dress; Chloe boots; Gucci bag
Outifit 2
This is a great look if I have a casual lunch but I still want to feel fashionable. I am a big fan of the seventies look and these jeans are incredibly flattering on.
Petro wears Frame jeans; J.Crew Tippi sweater; Maison Margiela boots; Celine bag
Outfit 3
Ultimately comfort and classic are my usual go-to looks. We swear by a Tippi sweater – they are chic, timeless and will go with everything. I like Frame denim as I have quite long legs but their jeans always seem to fit.
Petro wears J.Crew Tippi sweater; Frame jeans; Kurt Geiger slides, $230
Outfit 4
I am not a big heels person because I am tall already, but these are beyond comfortable. I can literally wear them all day and the green sage shade is an unusual neutral. Come spring a trench is my go-to overcoat.
Petro wears & Other Stories trench, $200; & Other Stories pumps; Topshop jeans; Marks & Spencer jumper
Outfit 5
We are huge Zimmermann fans, I wore this to their recent cocktail drinks. So effortless and flattering! I can wear this chiffon dress with boots now or with slides when it finally gets warmer.
Petro wears Zimmerman dress; Michael Kors boots
Outfit 6
Wrap skirts are having a real moment and I really love this chiffon version from Ganni. I like to give it a 90’s twist with biker boots and a slogan jumper.
Outfit 7
This is my “mum” look. I tend to wear a nice jacket and everything else basic. I would also swap these loafers for trainers if I have to do a lot of running around. A tote is great for chucking everything in from wipes to toys.
