Postpartum — Style

One of the hardest things about having a c-section was the pain of recovery. I had been looking forward to getting back into my jeans after birth (hahahahaha the things I thought then and things I know now), and that was just not the reality of the situation.

The reality is this -- everyone's body handles birth differently, of course, but the majority of moms leave the hospital looking about 6 months pregnant.

This definitely threw a wrench in my expectations of myself postpartum. I quickly realized what was going to work and what was not, so I thought I would share my top essentials for the fourth trimester! These items have helped me feel put together (even if it's a day we weren't able to leave the house) which is something that is super important to me. To be honest, I'm 5 months PP now, and still rotating between these essential items on a daily basis. In general, I am a pretty simple dresser. Over the years I have found that I look my best and feel most comfortable in minimal, quality, casual pieces -- as you will come to learn!

Joggers

I wanted to be comfortable of course, but also wanted to look great for visitors and for my own sanity. I am obsessed with linen, knit and cashmere joggers, paired with a tee shirt/cardigan or linen button down. I even wear these out and about with slip on mules for a more finished look.

Linen Button Downs

For breastfeeding mamas, there is nothing better. I bought the Gap Oversized Boyfriend Linen Button Down in every single color they offer and never looked back.

Open Cardigans

Harrison was born in March, so it was still chilly and there was nothing better than being cozied up with him. Open cardigans with joggers is a relaxed, yet put together option while you're soaking up the first few months of motherhood. I picked up some great affordable options at Primark & Target, but there are also great options at J.Crew and Gap.

High Waisted Boyfriend Jeans

3 weeks postpartum I craved jeans but of course none of mine fit yet. I went into a local Madewell, and the sales team was so nice I almost cried. We tried on about 10 different pairs, all in 3-4 sizes above my pre-pregnancy size. Even still, it made me feel human again. I ended up going with a high waisted boyfriend fit. They were fitted then, but now hang loosely and I wear them almost every day. For the summer, I bought an additional pair in white to mix in to my rotation.

High Waisted Underwear

This goes out to all my c-section mamas. Isn't underwear postpartum super fun? Everything hits RIGHT at your incision, it's a real blast. A friend recommended the Kindred Bravely Postpartum Underwear & C-Section Recovery Panties, and I haven't looked back.

Slippers

Not only for comfort, but for much needed traction and support! I love the classic L.L. Bean Wicked Good Moccasins.