What to Wear When You’re a New Mom
Chunky Knits
Hooray for the return of big sweaters! “This season, everybody is doing chunky knits,” says Amy Tara Koch, style expert and author of Bump it Up. But all that extra material doesn’t mean you have to look big. “Choose tops that are longer and extend mid-thigh. The fact that they drape down actually makes you look taller and leaner.” $23, Ragstock.com
Ankle Bootie
Getting ready to abandon the flip flops and fun summer footwear? “One way for women to feel a little bit more hip is to wear an ankle bootie. They’re actually seasonless,” says Koch. “Get a pair with a stable, chunky heel to wear with dresses, leggings, jeans and trousers for instant height with a comfort factor. And they’re available at every price point.” $60, DSW.com
Blazer
Blazers are the easiest way to pull a look together, even with just a casual tank top underneath. “Blazers nip in naturally at your waist, and give you the illusion of having a waist,” says Koch, noting that blazers are the best way to create a feminine figure. “They don’t have to be tight; just tailored properly. And a blazer has to have a sharp shoulder.” $128, Express.com
Statement Piece
“A chunky necklace adds that little bit of wow-factor,” says Koch. Not sure if you want any dangling jewelry around baby? Save it for a well-deserved night out. Accessories are fun to buy now because you’ll get lots of use out of them later too. Don’t buy all new clothes while your body is still changing. $35, ModCloth.com
Scarf
As the temperature changes, opt for bright-colored scarves. “They’re supposed to look as though you’ve just tossed them on effortlessly,” says Koch. “Scarves are great because they add color. And when you wear them dangling down, they cover your belly.” $35, Loft.com
Tunic
Choose a long shirt that drapes, but only if the neckline dips down to your clavicle, so you get a great elongating effect. If the neckline is too high, this on trend piece won’t flatter, says Koch. $30, ModCloth.com
Lightweight trousers
Not so into skin-tight styles? Enter trouser pants, the happy medium that’s totally on trend. They’re loose fitting and flattering. Wear them cuffed with cute booties or flats. $50, Gap.com
Tried-and-true maternity jeans
We know, we know. You’re not pregnant any more. But you’re not back into your pre-pregnancy jeans yet either. So if you’re going to buy a pair for the body you have now, make them maternity jeans. They’ll provide enough stretch to keep you comfortable. Roll the elastic waist over if you don’t think need the extra belly support and pair them with a tunic top that’s longer than your average tee. $39, ASOS.com
Flared top
When you finally get around to a well-deserved, new-parent date night, choose a pleated short-sleeve top, like this one. It draws the eye upward to your natural waist and helps to create shape. Wear it with a pair of dark denim jeans and nude flats. $23, ASOS.com
Cozy pullover
Throwing this flowy sweater in your diaper bag makes you ready for any occasion: rainy afternoons, chilly morning walks and the occasional (okay, constant!) spit-up. (Seriously, always carry an extra shirt for you, not just baby.) $20, Target.com
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