I’m currently 12 weeks postpartum, and as expected, I’m struggling with putting together postpartum outfits.
If you resonate with this statement, then this is the post for you. We’re going to rebuild our wardrobes together, so that we have the foundation to put together postpartum outfits everyday and beyond.
GOAL: Getting back to feeling like myself, learning to dress my current body and building a wardrobe I love for my life.
Rebuilding My Wardrobe with Postpartum Outfits
This is actually a really exciting time.
I no longer resonate with my pre-baby style. My lifestyle is not the same as it was before (hello daily stroller walks), and honestly I really don’t feel like the same person. Postpartum is hard.
This as a good thing!
Humans evolve, and with that in mind, postpartum feels like the perfect time to re-invent yourself. Not in a cheesy way but in a strategic, practical way. This is the time for you to decide what you want your overall look to be, how you want it to make you feel, and how you want to portray yourself to the world.
This isn’t about going on a shopping spree, in fact this is the opposite. This is about taking the time to figure out what you want to add to your wardrobe. Make good use of what’s currently working.
This post will be the starting point of this journey, with follow up posts linked. So follow along!
Gather inspiration
The whole point of rebuilding your wardrobe is to create a collection of pieces that tells a story of who you are, and how you feel. This collection should inspire you and get you excited about putting outfits togeher.
But in order to do this successfully you’ll need guidance when it comes to the overall style. This is the fun and super creative part! Head over to Pinterest or Instagram and save content that inspires you, is practical for your lifestyle, and will allow you to maintain it for years to come.
The content doesn’t have to be clothes only, if an image of a coffee shop inspires you, save it. The deep brown tones can translate into a dress or a beautiful cozy sweater.
Postpartum Outfits: Do a closet audit
The first thing you’ll want to do is a closet audit, don’t complicate it, this is not as difficult as it sounds. Simply go through your current wardrobe and store or get rid of any clothing that you either don’t like and haven’t worn in a while, or doesn’t fit and likely won’t fit again.
Be honest with yourself.
This step creates space for clothes that truly work for your new postpartum lifestyle.
This action item was a hard pill for me to swallow but I knew that a white sheer ultra crop top was something I likely wouldn’t wear ever again. I reminded myself that rebuilding a wardrobe is about embracing the present, not holding onto the past.
As you edit, set aside:
- Clothes to donate or sell
- Staples you can still style with your new inspiration
- Anything you’re unsure of can be stored for now
Fill in the blanks
This is the fun part! Use the inspiration you previously gathered and put together outfits with what you already have, or create a postpartum shopping wish list and slowly fill it in with missing pieces.
For example, I realized I’ve been living in wide leg pants for the last few years but don’t have any in denim so I’m adding them to my list in a few sizes bigger to accommodate my new body.
If you need a starting point, focus on buying versatile basics first. Some include:
- Supportive pants (I personally love leggings with a thick band at the top)
- A great structured white tee
- A cozy layering piece like a big cardigan
- Comfortable yet stylish shoes for everyday outings
From there, add a few statement pieces that reflect your personality whether that’s a patterned dress, a tall boot, or accessories that elevate even the simplest postpartum outfit.
By approaching shopping this way, you’ll slowly rebuild your wardrobe with intention instead of impulse buys.
What’s Next
This post is just the starting point of your postpartum wardrobe journey. I’ll be sharing follow up posts on must have postpartum wardrobe essentials and more.
Make sure to follow along so you don’t miss new ideas and practical style tips for moms. You can also check out my guide on how to build a capsule wardrobe for insight on creating a timeless wardrobe foundation.
Postpartum Outfits FAQs
What should I wear right after having a baby?
Right after giving birth, comfort is the most important thing. So aim for soft leggings, nursing-friendly tops, loose dresses, and cozy cardigans as they make perfect postpartum outfits while your body is still healing (such an important time).
When should I buy postpartum clothes?
Most new moms find it helpful to buy a few essentials like leggings, nursing bras, and tops in the first weeks after birth, then gradually add more once they know what fits their lifestyle.
You’ll want to wait at least 6 weeks postpartum because your body is going to change a lot and you want to give yourself enough time to heal both physically and mentally. If you buy new clothes within the first few weeks postpartum, your belly will likely continue to minimize for months afterwards.
Do I need to buy a whole new wardrobe after baby?
No! We don’t binge shop here. Mix maternity clothes, your pre-baby favourites, and a few new postpartum staples for a well rounded wardrobe you feel good in.
Building a small capsule wardrobe can help you stay stylish without overspending.
What are the best postpartum wardrobe essentials?
Some but not limited to, essentials include:
- High waisted leggings or joggers
- Nursing friendly tops and dresses
- Layering pieces like cardigans
- Supportive undergarments (this one is HUGE, you’ll feel 10x more comfortable with support)
- Comfortable sneakers or slip ons
