What to Wear: San Francisco Day & Night

San Francisco is such a fun city for visitors. Sandra is coming in October with a toddler and some big plans:

Here is my fashion dilemma. I used to be a corporate-y type person, then went back to grad school to study psychology and now am the mom of a toddler. In 3 weeks I will be in San Francisco at a conference where I will be the “partner’s” wife (it’s my husband’s conference). We have at least one “business casual” dinner plus sight seeing plus a dinner at Chez Panisse. During the day I will be running around the city with my 21 month old daughter and making the acquaintance of various playgrounds along the way.

What can I wear to the business casual dinners that would be wearable again in other situations? What can I wear during the day that would look hip but still be functional (i.e. Climbing up a slide after my daughter)? How do I look stylish and not just “mommy-ish”?

I am in desperate need for a fall jacket and some shoes.

Here are three outfits that can get Sandra through most anything in San Francisco:

Golden Gate Park
Explore the city’s biggest park in style.
Dress – Lovely cobalt color and on sale for only $50 from Anthropologie.
Sweater – A zipper cardigan from Forever21 should be warm enough for the day.
Shoes – Sneakers lend a casual tone to the outfit and will be perfect for exploring the city.
Bag – A classic black purse that goes with everything.

Chez Panisse
Transition to the evening in the same dress with different accessories.
Dress – Same dress, different tone.
Jacket – A little black coat worn unbuttoned.
Shoes – A serious pair of black pumps for $40 from Kenneth Cole.

Tartine Bakery Follow up the next morning with breakfast at the city’s favorite bakery on 18th & Guerrero.
Jeans – San Francisco’s official uniform.
Sweater – This sweet little red peacoat sweater will last you all fall and winter.
Tank – In basic black.
Sneakers – Simple converse.

Have fun, Sandra!