I think people buy way too much clothing for their children. They usually only fit in a size for 6-12 months at most, and I know that often when I switch out Emerson's clothes each times she grows or the seasons change, I realize that even with my minimalist approach to her wardrobe, many items are worn only a couple of times if at that. My child isn't 3 yet, but this is what we do...

There's nothing wrong with your kid rocking out 90% of the time in tee shirts and jeans or shorts. I buy the heavier denim jeans that are more durable, and stores like Gap & Old Navy always have their fantastic tee shirts (long and short sleeved) on sale. I buy a season or size ahead when they are on clearance. She has like 4-5 bottoms per season and 6-8 tops - these are sturdy knits made fun with cool colors, prints and details. We then have 3-4 pajamas/sleepers, 2-4 hoodies/sweaters/jackets, 2 dressier looks and a small variety of shoes (2-3 pr casual so can switch out to maintain comfort and reduce stink, 1 pair dress, 1 pair aqua but can be worn as regular shoes, 1 pair of inclement weather ones - rain or snow boots). Anything else is frosting and is usually gifts from friends and relatives.

I do recommend for girls to have a black or navy turtleneck and pair of leggings - this will take spring dresses and make them work through fall & winter, make slightly short dresses wearable, and it's still a super cute look. Totally wardrobe staples in our home.

Having a daughter, it's easy to get caught up in hair bows and dresses but they don't get you much mileage. Keeping just a couple in the closet specifically for special events makes them special to the kid, and always look special when the situation arises. I stick with something like black patent mary janes for shoes because they work no matter the season, no matter the color or style of the dress.

Can't wait for other replies!

I love midnight silhouette

wardrobeoxygen @ gmail.com

I would use my daughter's name - Emerson. This would look fantastic in her room and she is 20 months and learning how to say her name!

parking gate was up at one exit at Greenbelt last week. However everyone was still scanning their SmarTrip card... I got a free parking that day! :)

I have had to replace my SmarTrip twice. I found it's fastest if you say it was lost or stolen, than turn in your broken one. I got a replacement card in a week that way, and waited over 2 weeks when the other one I admitted was broken and I turned it in. I also found they have gotten much faster with email responses. Be sure your cards are always registered so you get back your money. And whether you turn in your old one or say it's lost/stolen you will still have to pay for a new card...