How to Rediscover Your Style as a New Parent

Becoming a parent is an exhilarating and trying time, to say the least. Between diaper changes, feedings, baths, and cuddling, it can be difficult to pay attention to things like your style and how it may shift now that you’re a parent.

For some, this might not be a priority. However, if losing your sense of personal style means your self-esteem or identity take a hit, it can be worthwhile to look into getting it back. Here are a few easy ways to re-incorporate your style into your new world.

Embrace Your New Body

Carrying a baby changes your body in dozens of ways, a lot of them permanent. While it is important to have healthy habits like regular exercise, avoid chasing your “pre-baby” body or trying to “get back in shape.” Embrace the new you with fashion that shows off your curves!

That can be easier said than done, but having the right wardrobe will help. Start by figuring out your general body shape; for example, some of the main ones are apple, pear, inverted triangle, rectangle, and hourglass.

Once you know what body shape you have, shop for clothes that flatter it. For example, pear shapes tend to have a smaller torso than hips. That means wearing tops that draw the eye upward and balance the shoulders and hips is ideal. Button-up tops with prints or cropped sweaters work well for this.

Another trick is to choose clothes that show off the parts of your body you love and/or conceal the parts you’re less than fond of. If you’re super proud of your strong legs but not so much of your arms, opt for tight, dark leggings. Pair them with a loose, long-sleeved printed sweater for a trendy, easy-to-put-together look.

Dressing to suit your body shape will go miles toward keeping your confidence high and your style working for you.

Clear Out Your Closet

During pregnancy, your wardrobe likely looked different from the earlier phases of your life. It’s time to clear out all your pre-baby and maternity clothes to make room for your new styles. Get rid of anything that doesn’t fit you anymore; uncomfortable clothes only add to self-esteem troubles. Keep only things that fit and make you feel good about your body.

It’s also important to get fitted for a new bra. You’d be surprised how much your size may have changed! Also snag some new, comfortable underwear for daily use. You don’t need to be pulling up or down your old pairs all day when trying to take care of a little one.

Be sure to snag at least one snazzy bra or panty for the nights you want to look extra special or need a little boost.

Balance Practicality with Special Occasions

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If you used to dress in dry-clean-only fabrics or wear lots of fluttery skirts, you may need to re-think your wardrobe choices for life as a parent. You’re going to be sitting on the floor, getting messy, and probably getting used as a tissue more often now.

Your new wardrobe should have a healthy dose of practicality. Think high-waisted pants and leggings for comfort while sitting on the ground and shirts with prints to hide stains. Also opt for washable, breathable fabrics like cotton.

That doesn’t mean you can’t have special pieces, however! When you need to dress up for a party or meet the girls for brunch, make sure to have one or two nicer options to suit the occasion. This tip goes for new dads too. Avoid the fashion mistake of wearing a wool suit around the house and opt instead for easier-to-care-for fabrics like cotton.

Stick with Versatile Classics

Building a new capsule wardrobe as a parent doesn’t have to involve breaking the bank. Choose a few classic pieces you know will work with multiple outfits or accessories so you can repurpose them.

For example, a plain black midi dress can be dressed up for a night out with a dazzling necklace and purse pairing. Or you can tone it down for a quick trip to the grocery store with colorful flats and shielding sunglasses.

Snag a nature-inspired boho cardigan or two to throw over anything. They’re comfortable, warm, and more stylish than a hoodie.

Don’t Forget the Basics

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A mom bag doesn’t have to look frumpy. There are dozens of adorable bags on the market with plenty of pockets to keep everything you and baby need throughout your day. Look for sassy sayings or animal print to make your mom bag more fun.

With the hectic nature of parenting, it can be easy to forget about things like showers or deodorant. For those times you rush out the door and realize you smell like formula, consider storing a bottle of fragrance in your car.

Finally, as a new mom, you’re likely also going to have to think about a new haircut. Long, luscious waves are beautiful, but they’re also handles for tiny hands. If you opt for short but miss the look of long, you can always consider a faux hairpiece for special occasions.

Take Care of You 

Being a new parent is a challenge; finding your fashion doesn’t have to be. Start from scratch, balance your everyday looks with your fancy pieces, and stick with a few solid basics. You’ve got this!