The postpartum period is a whirlwind of change. It's a time when self acceptance and confidence can hit their lowest points, having a profound impact on a woman's mental health and wellbeing. That's why I've partnered with Conturve, a leading shapewear brand dedicated to empowering women on their self love journey. Together, we'll explore the rollercoaster ride that is the postpartum journey, whilst discovering how shapewear can be a valuable tool to build confidence. So let's dive in and find the balance between embracing our authentic selves and utilising shapewear to boost confidence along the postpartum journey.

Embracing Your Postpartum Journey
The postpartum period is a massively transformative time in a woman's life. Physically, mentally and emotionally, postpartum and the fourth trimester can be a real rollercoaster ride. It's important to approach your postpartum journey with kindness, accepting what your body has gone through to bring new life into the world. Each stretch mark, roll and ripple tells a story. Embracing your postpartum journey is all about honouring that story.
During this journey it's natural to have mixed emotions about your physical appearance. This is likely to be true whether you are a model with Muse agency or whether you are a stay at home mother. I for one felt very alien in my postpartum body, especially in those first couple of months. However it's important to understand, true beauty comes from self love and self acceptance. We should try and not focus on the physical aspects of our bodies that may have changed. Shifting the mindset in a positive way towards the incredible resilience our bodies hold can be really liberating. Postpartum bodies have been through something extraordinary, and they deserve to be celebrated. We deserve to be celebrated!
Self acceptance is a journey in itself. It takes time, patience and a whole lot of love. With each step comes new found confidence, and if shapewear can help you feel more confident, embrace it and use it as a tool that supports your postpartum journey.
What Is Shapewear
Shapewear is a versatile undergarment designed to provide support and enhance the body's natural curves. It's a confidence boost and a valuable tool in helping women feel more comfortable in their skin. Understanding the basics of shapewear can empower you to make an informed choice that aligns with your needs.
Shapewear comes in numerous different styles and fabrics, all of which serve their own purpose. From high waisted shorts to full body suits, there's a wide range of options to suit different target areas. Whether you want to smooth your silhouette, provide support or enhance your curves there's shapewear out there available for you.
When selecting shapewear it's important to consider the following:
- Comfort
- Fit
- Breathability
- Support
Whilst shapewear shouldn't be used as a substitute for self acceptance it can be used as a tool to enhance your body confidence and make you feel more comfortable in your postpartum body. Shapewear should be chosen based on personal preference rather than societal expectations or pressures.
How Shapewear Can Boost Confidence
Shapewear can be a powerful tool for boosting confidence and helping women feel more comfortable in the skin they're in. While it's important to embrace self acceptance from within, there's no harm in using shapewear to boost confidence on your postpartum journey.
One of the significant benefits of shapewear is its ability to enhance your body's natural shape. It can smooth out any lumps or bumps providing a more streamlined silhouette. Shapewear can act as an extra layer of confidence, allowing you to wear your favourite outfits without feeling too self conscious.
Another advantage is the support shapewear can offer. Postpartum bodies may need extra support, especially around the abdominal area. Shapewear can provide gentle compression providing a sense of stability. When you feel physically supported, it positively affects your well being and self esteem.
Additionally shapewear can serve as a reminder that you have control over your appearance. Something you may not have felt through pregnancy, childbirth and postpartum. It can be used to boost confidence and show empowerment.

Finding The Right Shapewear
Finding the right shapewear that suits your body type and preferences is essential for a comfortable and confident experience. With a wide variety of options available, it's important to consider a few key factors when selecting shapewear:
- Pay attention to your body shape and the areas you wish to target.
- Take accurate measurements to ensure your shapewear fits correctly.
- Consider the level of compression/support you need.
- Research reputable brands
- Read reviews from real people
Finding the right shapewear is a personal journey, and what works for one person may not work for another. Take the time to experiment with different styles to discover what makes you feel most comfortable and confident. By finding shapewear that fits and meets your specific requirements you'll be able to embrace its benefits while feeling confident in your self love journey.



Using Conturve Shapewear To Boost Confidence
Whilst I am incredibly proud of what my body has gone through nurturing and birthing my two children - Women are incredible! - There are certain areas I'd like a little assistance with, to make me feel more confident.
For me personally, my target area is primarily my abdomen. After having stretched twice, 82 weeks in total, I'm left with loose skin and a little bit of extra stout. This softness, although appreciated and honoured for what it is, can make me feel self conscious, especially when it comes to wearing certain outfits.
High Waisted Shaping Shorts
The seamless high waisted shaping shorts from Conturve give full tummy to thigh support meaning they're perfect for my target area. They're gentle and breathable, yet compressing and smoothing my abdominal area. I can wear them all day, as they're super comfy and easy to wear. Even the anti slip silicone waistband is comfortable and not tight at all!
As a regular wearer of midi dresses, the high waisted shaping shorts from Conturve are perfect for smoothing the silhouette. I can't quite believe how good these make me feel. I think I need to buy these in beige too!
Daily Comfort Throw On Wire Free Bra
Since having my children and having my breasts blow up and deflate like balloons (twice) my boobs could do with a bit of a pick me up. The problem with most pick me up's however is comfort. Most padded bras or structured tops can be really uncomfortable. That's where the daily comfort throw on wire free bra from Conturve comes into play!
The throw on bra is both smoothing and supporting, giving a really flattering fit. The wide comfort band provides all day support and gives a natural lift to the breasts. Its lightly padded but large supportive cups also give the impression of a curvier, more slinky silhouette. It's perfect! It'd be brilliant for those who are breastfeeding as it's just so comfortable.
Conturve Shapewear Review
Wearing the two shapewear pieces together makes me feel all smoothed and dolphin like! It gives me an added confidence boost and spring in my step which makes me feel incredible in my postpartum body. I'm not in any way unhappy with my postpartum body, but these pieces are incredible for making me feel like the best version of myself. I'm smoothed, sleek and feel better than ever!
My discount code CLAIREMAC15 gets you 15% off

Embracing Authenticity And Self Love
While shapewear can be a helpful tool for boosting confidence, it's essential to remember that true empowerment comes from embracing authenticity and practicing self love. Shapewear shouldn't be a substitute for accepting and loving your postpartum body as it is.
Postpartum self love is about embracing your unique journey and celebrating the changes your body has gone through. Instead of striving for a specific shape or size, focus on cultivating self acceptance and appreciation for your body's strength and resilience.
Self love is the foundation of confidence and empowerment. It's about treating yourself with kindness, compassion, and respect. Practice self care rituals that nourish your body and mind, whether it's through exercise, mindfulness, or engaging in activities that bring you joy. Surround yourself with positive influences and supportive communities that uplift and celebrate diverse body types and journeys.
Shapewear can complement your self love journey by providing a boost of confidence, but it should never define your worth or be the sole source of empowerment. Embrace your authenticity, celebrate your postpartum body, and let self love guide you on the path towards true confidence and empowerment.

In Conclusion
In conclusion, the postpartum journey is a remarkable time of transformation and self discovery. Embracing your postpartum body with kindness and acceptance is essential, as it tells the story of your incredible journey into motherhood. Shapewear can be a valuable tool in boosting confidence and providing support, but it should never replace self love and authenticity.
Remember to prioritise self care, surround yourself with positivity, and celebrate your unique postpartum body. By embracing authenticity, practicing self love, and using shapewear as a compliment to your journey, you can navigate this transformative period with confidence and a deep appreciation for women's bodies... They are incredible, after all!
Don’t forget my discount code CLAIREMAC15 gets you 15% off Conturve shapewear.



These sound like a great brand! I've started wearing shapewear which also doubles up as chub rub shorts and they are working wonders! I feel more confident in my appearance when I'm wearing them under tight clothing and they're an absolute Godsend for no chafing in the Summer heat! You look amazing in these pieces. I obviously can't relate to the postpartum aspect of this post but it's no surprise so many women feel alien in their bodies after giving birth and having to navigate a new body! It's great that there's things available to help.
I can see how shapewear would provide a confidence boost, and I love that this is something anyone can try out. I've not had any children but I could probably wear some to give me a boost too. This brand sounds really decent too — thanks for sharing!
I like the sound of this brand! I sometimes wear shapewear (depending on what I'm wearing) and I love how it makes me look and how much confidence it gives me! x
Lucy | http://www.lucymary.co.uk
I can't believe I've never tried any shapewear - those shorts are amazing. Like you, I'm not totally at peace with my body, even 13 years after giving birth, but I wholeheartedly agree about a full appreciation of what it has achieved - growing, nurturing, and giving birth to a fabulous human being. Lovely post, Claire! x
This sounds like an amazing brand. I love companies that help woman learn to love their bodies. I haven’t gone through the pregnancy journey but I’m sure this will help sooo many women.
Sounds like a great brand. And you're right, confidence can definitely take a hit postpartum!
This shapewear looks great.
I'd really like some shapewear so I'm definitely going to have a look into this brand! x