AD. Embracing practical yet fashionable pieces can make a world of difference as you adjust to your new routine and body. A good nursing bra is essential for breastfeeding and should be comfortable, well-fitting, and supportive of your heavy, milk-filled breasts. Choose bras made from natural, breathable, absorbent fabrics with soft cups. When selecting items for your wardrobe, consider patterns, prints, and darker colours as they are more effective at concealing unexpected leaks than solid or light colours. Scarves and shawls are excellent accessories that can cover leaks and provide privacy while breastfeeding in public.
[Photo by Joshua Rodriguez on Unsplash]
Stylish but Comfortable Postpartum Wardrobe Essentials
Comfortable Leggings
Leggings and yoga pants are a must-have for any postpartum wardrobe because they offer comfort and flexibility. Since they are made from stretchy, soft fabrics, they provide the perfect blend of support and freedom of movement, which is essential for you as a new mum. You can pick high-waisted leggings that provide additional support for your abdomen as your body heals. Leggings are versatile enough to wear around the house, for light exercise, or even when running errands. Pair them with a long tunic or nursing top for a stylish yet comfortable outfit. There are plenty of leggings in the market so experts’ advice on the best postpartum leggings will help you find one that suits your preferences as they cover everything from the material to the colours and cost.
Cosy Sweatshirts
A front wrap sweatshirt is the perfect option for cool mornings and evenings or on overcast or windy days. These sweatshirts have a cross-over design with an extra layer which makes it easy to nurse but still looks chic. This style goes well with either jeans or leggings. You can use a statement necklace or drop earrings for a touch of elegance. In winter, fleece-lined nursing sweatshirts that have discrete side openings are an easy way to nurse your baby while both of you stay warm and comfortable.
Easy-Access Tops
As a new mum, you will probably be nervous taking your baby to the stores or a café because the last thing you want is to have your baby screaming in hunger while you are fumbling to get your top undone. This is why it’s important to wear easy-access tops so that you can nurse your baby as soon as you notice their hunger cues. There are a variety of styles and colours to choose from. Some tops pull over, button/zip down, or pull up. And there are even styles that don’t look like nursing tops at all. During the first few weeks, it's best to stick with tops that are easy to wash and easy to take off. If you don’t want to splurge on special nursing tees, you can just pick up a few low-cut pieces that are stylish and will last long after your baby is weaned. Avoid tight tops as these can interfere with your milk supply. Keep in mind that newborns need to be fed every 2 to 3 hours. So if you are going with a pull-down top, choose one that is made from a stretchy fabric so that it doesn’t lose its shape. Skin-to-skin tops are soft and lightweight to prevent overheating. This is a great option for the first few weeks as it allows you and your baby to have direct skin-to-skin contact which helps to calm and relax both you and your baby among many other health benefits. Try a bra size calculator to find the right fit as your body continues to change.
Flattering Dresses
When you have to stay home all day with your newborn, it’s normal to feel overwhelmed, anxious, or even a bit trapped. It’s important to acknowledge and understand your emotions and then take steps to work on it. If you feel like your role as “mum” has taken over every aspect of your life, you can go for a weekend brunch with your friends, attend a family party or plan a date night. There are plenty of flattering nursing dresses to choose from so pick a few that are stylish but comfortable. Wrap or crossover style dresses work well with different body shapes, can be dressed up or down and they are easy to open for nursing. It’s like these dresses were made for breastfeeding! Dresses with bow-tie shoulder straps are practical but cute. Dresses with a tie waist that you can adjust are also flattering.
Comfortable Shoes
If you’ve been cooped up at home for weeks and you’re looking forward to date night, you're probably eager to slip into your high heels. This is a big mistake because high heels put stress on your back muscles that are already strained from your pregnancy and childbirth. It’s best to invest in a pair or two of flats that look good and complement your dressing style. When picking up flats, make sure that they provide arch support because poor arch support will make your feet hurt. Ballet flats with arch support and orthopaedic sandals are also good options.
