How to create a comfortable and easy postpartum wardrobe

The postpartum period, when you're exhausted from giving birth, waking up at odd hours, and feeling very different from your "normal" self, can be really overwhelming. Baby shower registry (opens in new tab) usually focuses on what the baby needs, and you may not have a ton of mental energy to devote to your own wardrobe. (opens in new tab) Additionally, your weight is constantly changing and your chest, hips, torso, and even legs may have permanently changed measurements.

I haven't given birth yet, but I am already thinking about how I will dress myself with a whole new person to sleep less and plan clothes.

"Thinking about the postpartum period is a really smart thing to do. It's something to look forward to and something forgiving, so you don't have to try to squeeze yourself into your old clothes or wear maternity clothes that you've worn for nine months and are tired of," said celebrity stylist (who dresses Katie Holmes) and has many mom friends as clients. Alison Bornstein, a virtual styling phenom (opens in new tab), says. [Jeans, t-shirts and blazers, tight skirts and big sweaters, leggings and men's shirts. You don't have to reinvent the wheel. If you carefully select the sizes that fit you now, you can put together a great new mom's "uniform." This can be a bridge too. Your regular wardrobe may not fit, but you don't have to throw out your clothes just yet. Think of it as a sartorial opportunity: make the most of what you're wearing and find clothes that look and feel good. New moms should stock up on the following.

The drawback with leggings is that they can sometimes be too casual. Many of my new mom clients say they want to find their style again. The idea of chasing kids around in leggings and a sweatshirt is depressing. But don't worry: Leggings can also serve as a base for other items on this list. There aren't many postpartum-specific clothes, but a brand called Blanqi leads the way with stretchy clothes that are comfortable, even as sizes change.

I used to think shirtdresses didn't suit me. But the trick is to wear it loose and emphasize your frame with a belt or jacket. Or a structured bag and kitten heels. The oversized shirtdress symbolizes a new way of approaching the wardrobe. They are comfortable and luxe at the same time, and can accommodate size changes without looking cheap or thin.

"Postpartum is the hardest time because sizes are constantly changing. It would be foolish to invest in something expensive," says Bornstein. Instead, go for comfort. 'Buy a pair of H&M jeans in your size or a size larger. You really only need one or two core items that fit you," he says. Skinny jeans, t-shirts, and oversized blazers (opens in new tab). You can also choose straight-leg, cigarette, or (the aptly named) mom jeans, depending on your body type. Just avoid anything too wide-leg, as it may make you feel thicker than you actually are. Paper bag pants or pull-on types fit the waist better than standard button and zipper. Also, opt for elasticized chinos (opens in new tab), shorts (opens in new tab), or skirts (opens in new tab) for a half-step dressier look.

A great way to upgrade leggings is with an oversized shirt and sandals or mules. The leggings-and-sweatshirt look-the reason people wear it is because it's easy. The leggings and sweatshirt look-the reason people wear it is because it's easy. Button-downs are as simple as sweatshirts and are also an option for nursing. Customize this simple shape with patterns and puff sleeves. As with shirtdresses, try to choose one that fits snugly, even if it's for maternity. Comfort is more important than the tag number.

This may sound like a counterintuitive choice. You might think that tight and form-fitting doesn't seem like the best choice for me right now. But knitwear does not hide your body shape; it clarifies and accentuates it. If you don't want to accentuate certain parts of your body, make either the top or bottom half oversized and the other half tightly fitted. However, quality matters, so consider carefully before purchasing.

If there's anything I've learned in my nearly six months of pregnancy, it's that most women's clothes don't stretch or adapt. Maternity wear makes up for that. Thanks to creative designers, nursing tops have become less prominent. The traditional "petal" construction (open with new tab) is still there, but so are wraps, overlays, and even henleys. [A simple T-shirt dress with sneakers and a trench, blazer, or choir jacket is another easy pregnancy outfit. A quality T-shirt dress can be worn long into the summer and fall. Play with texture, length, and pattern to create a "fashion girl" vibe. And don't worry about it being too superficial, Bornstein reassures us. It may seem silly to think about clothes when you're about to give birth, but it's necessary."

For more stories like this, including celebrity news, beauty and fashion advice, savvy political commentary, and fascinating features, sign up for the Marie Claire newsletter.

Click here to subscribe (opens in new tab)

.