Navigating the Postpartum Wardrobe: Tips and Tricks for Getting Dressed

The postpartum phase is a whirlwind of physical, emotional, and hormonal changes.

Amidst the sleep deprivation, recovery, and endless diaper changes, getting dressed and taking care of yourself often feels like an afterthought. But don’t put it off for too long – it can easily take a toll on your mental health. Take time for a warm shower, your skincare routine, and changing into fresh clothes that make you feel good.

Here are some tips and tricks to make the process a little easier:

Choose comfort and convenience—always.

• Opt for loose-fitting, breathable fabrics. Your hormones are raging postpartum, which can manifest in many different ways. I had the luxury (sarcasm) of experiencing a major pregnancy rash, which made my skin incredibly sensitive to fabrics. Everything needs to be soft, breathable, and non-clingy.

  Also, the night sweats are a doozy! If you’re not comfortable sleeping naked, make sure you have nursing-friendly, lightweight pajamas—and maybe multiple pairs because the sweat is relentless.

• If you’re nursing, don’t limit yourself to only “nursing clothing”. You really don’t even need to buy anything to make your wardrobe work. Postpartum, I live in soft leggings and oversized button-downs. You can dress it up if you’re leaving the house or just pair them with slouchy socks for a cozy home look.

  Side note: make sure you have nursing pads easily accessible at all times.

• The only true nursing-specific piece of clothing I recommend treating yourself to (besides a bra) is a nursing tank! A tank will turn any piece of clothing nursing friendly. A crew neck sweatshirt works just fine- just wear the tank underneath for easy access wherever you go.

Gradually reintroduce compression.

• Avoid tight-fitting clothes that can constrict your body or cause discomfort in the beginning. As time moves on, you might slowly want to introduce more compression to your belly. This will help support your muscles as you’re slowly starting to engage your core again.

  I am recovering from my second C-section, and I swore by the band the hospital gave me when I was discharged (linking a similar band HERE). As the weeks went by, I started using my Lovesteady band (the one I used during pregnancy), and it felt great on my belly. Eventually, I’ll start wearing my favorite shaping underwear and leggings, but not until my incision is a little more healed.

  This is totally a personal preference! If you like the feel of compression- don’t ignore it.

Remember: Your body is going through huge changes right now. You’ll be fluctuating, retaining water, losing water, smelling differently, breaking out—all the things. Give yourself grace and prioritize your mental health however you need to. You’ve got this. ❤️

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Links:

• Postpartum Must-Haves (LTK)