Laura Bennett: Breastfeeding Friendly Fashion Tips Plus Win Her New Book

As much as I love my kids, being a parent can drive me crazy sometimes. Whether your kid took a dump in his chair so he didn’t have to share it with his younger brother or if you let your kid watch tv all day because otherwise she’d talk non-stop, you have to be able to laugh about it. (Both of these situations are true, except one of them happened to a friend do mine.)

Laura Bennett portrays motherhood in all its funny glory in her new book, Didn’t I Feed You Yesterday?: A Mother’s Guide to Sanity in Stilettos. If you’re a Project Runway fan, you’ll know her as a finalist in Season 3. During which she was also newly pregnant. The tv audience was able to watch baby #6 grow in her belly. Yes, you read that right. Laura has six kids.

With 1 daughter and 5 sons, that’s a lot of book fodder. While Laura pokes fun at her family’s crazy antics, I’m still amazed that she manages to look stylish and sane. Her book was a fun and quick read. I actually let my daughter watch more tv than usual so I could continue reading her book. (Don’t call the mommy police!) I did have to put the book down eventually so I could fix the kid some dinner.

I asked Laura some questions that had nothing to do with her book (ok, a little bit), which she graciously answered. She’s also giving away a copy of her book to one lucky reader–and she’ll inscribe it for you! Details on how to enter after Laura’s answers.

I love your style: classy, chic, and you can still chase your 6 kids around! In your book, you recommend that we need to find the cinematic version of ourselves for wardrobe inspiration. I love Kirsten Vangsness’ character, Penelope, from the tv show Criminal Minds. I admire her bright, funky style. Any tips on how to pull off her look without looking like a hussy or wannabe when I pick up my daughter from the suburban preschool?

Lets get this straight first; you have to wear what you love, and not worry about the other moms. OK. Her look actually has a lot of variety. The thing that pulls it all together are her signature funky glasses. I love the idea of a statement piece that becomes your signature, and unique glasses are a great idea that anyone can pull off, urban or suburban. She also has a definite vintage feel to her look. I love the idea of vintage because that look is always your own. You have to wear what you love, and not worry about the other moms.

Did you breastfeed any of your children? If so, how were you able to maintain your personal style (with your wardrobe) and still be breastfeeding friendly?

I have breastfed most of my kids. For way too long. I did have one that was not too interested, but others went on and on. I have actually had two breastfeeding at the same time. Don’t believe the rumor that you can’t get pregnant while breastfeeding. My biggest fashion challenge was not being able to wear my crew neck sheath dresses, which I consider to be my uniform. I would always have to switch to a V neck or a surplice for easier access, and both those styles tend to be more flattering on larger boobs. Sometimes when I go through my dresses I still come across one with two white stains on the chest.

Admit it, you enjoyed setting that Christmas tree on fire didn’t you? (Read her book and you’ll get the sordid, yet hilarious details.)

Setting that Christmas tree on fire has to easily be the stupidest thing I have ever done. Ever. That thing went up faster that taxes in California. I’m lucky I didn’t burn the entire building down. And the mess that fire extinguisher made was unbelievable. EVERYTHING was covered in a fine white powder. I swear, six years later, I am still cleaning it up. I do not recommend trying this at home.

Thanks so much Laura! I’m definitely going to look out for some breastfeeding friendly dresses for this summer.

Laura’s book will be available tomorrow, April 6. While you’re waiting, you can read the introduction to her book.

If you’re in NYC, you can also meet her in person. She has a book signing on April 7th at 7:00 pm at Borders Time Warner Center. Tell her I sent you.

Now here’s your chance to win an copy of Laura’s book, Didn’t I Feed You Yesterday?: A Mother’s Guide to Sanity in Stilettos in which Laura will inscribe for you! Receive an entry for doing any of the following. Come and leave a comment for each entry. Also please leave contact info so I can let you know if you win. Giveaway will end April 18th.

Leave a comment answering this question: What’s the craziest thing your kid has done or you’ve done as a parent?
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Tweet about this giveaway and leave the link to tweet in the comments (I’m @thienkim)
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This is not a compensated post. I really did enjoy the book–I read it in 2 days! I was given a copy of the book for review.

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