Olivia Culpo On The 5 Things She Reaches for Most as a New Mom

As a new mom, some things are intuitive and others less so. For model and new mom Olivia Culpo, accepting this is one of the more difficult parts of parenting. “I am naturally a by-the-book learner, so not having a set handbook for newborns was difficult at first,” the model and Next Gen Chef host shared in an exclusive interview with The Bump. “Parenting is almost entirely trial and error, which can feel intimidating. But the process of learning your baby, even through mistakes, is also deeply rewarding.”

Thankfully when it comes to her nursery Culpo hasn’t had to learn by trial and error. Rather she’s followed her intuition and with a little help created the space of her dreams for baby Colette. Even before the beloved content creator knew she’d be welcoming a girl, Culpo had two requirements for her nursery: that it be calm and timeless. From there, she teamed up with Crate & Kids to create a soft, soothing, and polished space that would work for her husband, Christian McCaffrey, and their daughter.

“Function has to come first. Beauty is important, but the pieces you rely on most need to perform under pressure,” Culpo shared. “When I worked with my Crate & Kids designer, I focused on versatility and longevity. The Hampshire 64” White Extra Wide Dresser with Changing Topper is a perfect example. It serves as a changing station now and later transitions seamlessly into a piece that can display art, books or keepsakes. It is a foundational element that keeps the space timeless and practical.”

In her polished but practical nursery, you’ll find Culpo more often than not sitting in her favorite addition—her Babyletto Recliner. “It was one of the first decisions I made for the space…this chair is where I spend hours every day feeding, rocking, and comforting Colette,” she adds. “Comfort is a non-negotiable for me, but I also wanted something that elevated the design. This chair achieves both.”

Image: Courtesy of Crate & Kids

Outside of her Babyletto Recliner, Culpo admits there are five other MVPs she’s gone back to again and again since welcoming Colette, including:

• A baby wrap that has been essential for travel and keeping Colette close.
• A Nuna stroller with the bassinet attachment, which “makes walks double as nap time.”
• A Barefoot Dreams blanket that is “always with us for its comfort and versatility.”
• Matching cashmere outfits for herself, Oliver (her Goldendoodle) and Colette that she “cannot wait to wear once the weather cools.”
• A designer diaper bag from Chanel that “might not be practical but makes me happy every time I carry it.”

And while the bags Culpo carries may have shifted from a tiny Prada to a roomy Chanel, so too has her everyday rhythm. Reflecting on these unexpected changes, Culpo says she’s found a new pace and appreciation for life. “Before, my days were scheduled down to the half hour. Now my rhythm is set by Colette, and I have learned to embrace flexibility. If something doesn’t get done, I’ve realized it can wait,” she said. “That shift has allowed me to slow down and really take in these early moments.”