1 of 1

Write now Article Tools

If you are like most new moms, you didn't wear your pre-pregnancy jeans home from the hospital. Likely you won't be able to wear them again for at least a few months, if ever. As if childbirth wasn't hard enough, now you have a body you still don't recognize and nothing to wear. How do you dress your new mom body? Don't succumb to the sweats and T-shirt rut. You can look polished by the time you go back to work, even if you don't have your old shape back.

For starters, try dressing in the clothes that you were wearing three or four months into your pregnancy. Several of the tops I bought to camouflage my bump early on fit quite well shortly after giving birth. Although the weight came off quickly I found my enhanced bust line and not-yet-taut tummy didn't fit in my old shirts.

If you need a few new tops, think prints. Prints do wonders for the new mom. They hide body imperfections, can mesmerize babies, conceal spit-up, make leaks less noticeable, and add a little cheer to your wardrobe. If you are breastfeeding you will also want to look for tops that pull up easily or unbutton. Look for longer lengths that won't show your midriff when you're moving, but will cover tight waistbands if your pants don't fit right yet. This is also not the time to buy anything that is dry clean only.

Go through your closet and take inventory of your skirts and pants. Perhaps you have several elastic waistbands that are forgiving enough to get by for now. Maybe those lower cut jeans will fit again if they sit below that little bit of a pooch that you're still working on. If you need something new, buy neutral colored bottoms. They will be more versatile and with all those bold tops, you won't be boring.

Don't try on your old favorite jeans too often, if they don't yet fit. Be patient; put them away for at least another month or two. In the meantime, many moms can get by with one new pair of jeans. You can always add a belt when they get too big. Consider buying pants that sit low on your hips, they will fit your still changing body longer than other styles.

If you can, wait to go shopping until you are ready to go back to work. Try on several sizes. Pretend you've never tried on clothes before. It may have been a year or two since you bought normal clothes. Don't worry what the size is on an article of clothing. You are the only one that will see it. Instead, focus on how the clothes fit you, everyone will see that. Find a few transitional pieces. Don't buy a whole new wardrobe. Set a goal and promise yourself that you will go on a shopping spree when you get to the weight or waist size that you'd like. Let that motivate you to eat right and exercise.

Remember, it took about nine months to grow that baby and stretch your belly; it may take at least as long to slim down. Don't give up! In the mean time, don't make yourself feel worse by trying to squeeze into your old clothes. Go ahead and get a few new pieces that will help you feel good about yourself. Be proud of the amazing things your body just did. If all else fails, scoop up your baby, carry him or her to the mirror, and try not to smile. You look great holding your little one and you'll remember, it's all worth it!

Learn more about this author, Terra L. Fletcher.
Click here to send this author comments or questions.

Add your voice

Know something about Tips for new moms: How to dress your post-baby body?
We want to hear your view. Write now!