A mother in stylish J Brand jeans walks by with her perfectly dressed daughter, casting a judgmental look my way that makes me uncomfortable. Since becoming a mom, I've realized that this glance, which I refer to as the "Mummy Once-over," is even more critical than the typical Manhattan evaluation. It involves an instant assessment not just of my outfit but also of my child's appearance, the pram we use, the diaper bag we have, and even what snacks we're offering.

This one-second appraisal might seem overwhelming, but I have come to understand that mothers have a remarkable ability to observe and analyze multiple factors at once. The Mummy Once-over is a comprehensive judgment that reflects the pressures of motherhood, where every detail is scrutinized, showcasing the societal expectations placed on moms regarding appearances and childcare choices.