Nina Garcia’s School Drop-off Style

Any working mother knows how hectic it can be to get the kids ready for school while attempting to look somewhat put together, yourself. I certainly do as a mom to two sons—Alexander, 2 (pictured with me at an event last year) and Lucas, 6. With my life being fashion-centric, I am constantly trying to find a balance between my forward-thinking work outfits and those that are more appropriate for dropping my kids off at school (goodbye heels and leather). One thing I have learned is that no matter how much time I have to get myself dressed, I always rely on certain wardrobe staples that are essentially foolproof. Trust me, you will want to make yourself familiar with them, too.

Whether you are wearing jeans, trousers or a pencil skirt, a crisp white button-up (like I was wearing in the first photo) is an easy outfit-maker. It will appear as though you had five hours to get ready as opposed to five minutes. These are some of my favorites:

Get the Look: 1. Forever 21 Essential Chiffon Shirt, $20; 2. JCPenney Joe Fresh Silk Cargo-Pocket Shirt, $49; 3. J.Crew Boy Shirt, $70; 4. Calvin Klein Essential Fit City Shirt, $60

Face it ladies, running after your kids—making sure they don't forget their backpacks and their lunches—calls for shoes that won't result in a trip to the doctor's office. Last season, it was all about the ballet flats; now, smoking slippers are making a comeback. From Stubbs & Wootton to Topshop to JCPenney, you can find them anywhere at any price point. A fun pair of slip-on Vans can do the trick and are all the rage this season as well. All of these options are equally comfortable as they are chic.

Get the Look: 1. JCPenney Hue Suede Smoking Slippers, $39; 2. TopShop Maye Suede Slippers, $50; 3. Stubbs & Wootton Straw Crudo Slipper, $200; 4. Vans Liberty Authentic, $60

There is no way to avoid rushing out the door. My secret to creating the illusion that the morning routine went smoothly? A classic trench coat. Throw it on as you walk out the door, and nobody will ever know that you're still wearing your Led Zeppelin ripped college T-shirt underneath. Zara and H&M have great selections of coats that won’t empty your pockets.

Get the Look: 1. H&M Trench Coat, $50; 2. Zara Trench Coat, $119

Drop-off at school is about the kids, so there is no need to dress to impress. It's OK to wear jeans. These days a great pair of clean-cut denim jeans is just as respectable as tailored pants. Keep it classic with brands like Levi’s and Guess, and try to avoid ripped and worn-in washes.

Get the Look: 1. Guess Sophia Mid-Rise Curvy Skinny Jeans, $59; 2. Levi's Juniors 524 Skinny Jeans, $20 to $46; 3. DL1961 Women's Emma Legging Jeans, $168

Most of us don't have time to put on makeup in the morning. Thank God for sunglasses. They are the perfect accent to any outfit and signal "perfection" when it's really all just smoke and mirrors. Just don't stay too long to chat! Ray-Bans are my go-to.

Get the Look: Ray-Ban Wayfarer, $180

Another lifesaver. When you are in a bind, it doesn’t matter what you pair them with (an oversize tee, a knit sweater or a coat); all that matters is that you get the kids there on time without the hassle of overthinking your outfit.

The beauty of all these pieces is that they are timeless and work for moms of all ages. When in doubt, keep things simple but don't let your personality get totally lost! If all else fails, rock your head-to-toe workout outfit and pretend you just came from the gym. The other moms will be wondering what your secret is.

Get the Look: 1. Stretch Jodhpur Patch Legging, $88; 2. HUE Twill Leggings, $39; 3. HUE Denim Skimmer Leggings, $39; 3. Ponte Knit Leggings, $44