Cover Image for A stylist’s guide to dressing for your fourth trimester

A stylist’s guide to dressing for your fourth trimester

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Congratulations, you made it to the 4th trimester! You’ve done the hard part, so why does this trimester feel so tricky? Just like pregnancy, the postpartum phase is an emotional roller coaster made even trickier by the fact that you’re now caring for a tiny human. Adding to that, you now have to deal with leaky boobs, sleep deprivation and returning to work. A mother’s job never ends!

Even though you’re not pregnant anymore, chances are you probably don’t feel entirely like yourself. Perhaps you’re having a hard time navigating your new responsibilities or making time for your old routines – we miss Sunday brunch too! With all the new responsibilities and changes the last thing you should have to worry about is dressing for your (still adjusting) body. Sure, you’ve experienced body transformation during pregnancy, but postpartum is its own transitional period. Your body might still look different than it did pre-pregnancy and it might take awhile for things to adjust back to “normal.” 

This should be a time to celebrate your body and all it’s accomplished! It might seem impossible, but you can balance your new responsibilities with your old desires to look cute and feel sexy! And luckily, there are plenty of options that will help you look and feel good postpartum, without sacrificing comfort or style. Why should you have to choose?!

The ultimate before, during and after legging 

Hatch’s legging is a best seller for a reason; the high quality makes it easy to dress up or down and the fabric is C-section friendly with a soft wear that’s perfect for recovery. Wear it for a walk with your babe, or throw on an oversized button down and blazer to meet some friends. You’ll wear them well after your pregnancy, just as the name suggests.

The Ultra Soft Before, During & After Legging Vintage Grey
Credit: Hatch

The Ultra Soft Before, During & After Legging Vintage Grey

The go-to button down Shirt

This is a classic wardrobe item for a reason. The Classic Buttondown is designed to flatter your shape as it changes and the crispness of the soft cotton will guarantee an effortless, pulled together look even if you feel anything but. Wear it to work, to run errands or out to dinner – the options are endless!

The Classic Buttondown Rose Tan
Credit: Hatch

The Classic Buttondown Rose Tan

The on-the-go nursing jumpsuit

If you need to look put together without sacrificing comfort, look no further than this jumpsuit. The fabric is a luxe cotton jersey with stretch, providing softness while looking chic, and the design includes flattering details like side ruching and a wide leg. An added bonus? It’s easy to nurse and/or pump in, thanks to the wrap design. Wear it with sandals and a jacket or dress it up with heels and some jewelry for a nighttime look.

Francesca Jumpsuit Black
Credit: Nom Maternity

Francesca Jumpsuit Black

We can’t leave out this jumpsuit. And, let’s talk about the deep green color—stunning!

Maternity Jumpsuit With Nursing Access Deep Green
Credit: Boob Design

Maternity Jumpsuit With Nursing Access Deep Green

The fancier knit nursing dress

The girls are dying to see you and have agreed to meet for lunch near you to meet the little one.  Here’s the perfect outfit for the situation at hand. You’ll feel great and you’ll be able to feed with ease.

Sloane Knit Dress Black
Credit: Ripe Maternity

Sloane Knit Dress Black

Rowe Long Sleeve Knit Dress - Indigo / Navy
Credit: Apero Label

Rowe Long Sleeve Knit Dress – Indigo / Navy

The oversized blazer

A blazer should be a part of every woman’s wardrobe, and this one will have a place in your closet well after your postpartum journey. The double breasted design is both timeless and flattering especially as your body shifts post-pregnancy. This will work just as well as you return to work as it will with leggings and boots on the weekends.

The Oversized Blazer Grey Herringbone
Credit: Everlane

The Oversized Blazer Grey Herringbone

The soft everyday nursing dress

A dress might seem like too much work at this point, but this dress proves otherwise. The fabric is super soft and cozy while the shape is functional, providing easy access for nursing and pumping. Wear it for unexpected visitors, a fun outing, or to work. It’s a versatile, no-brainer that will make getting dressed so much easier.

Ribbed Maternity Tank Dress With Nursing Access Trench Coat
Credit: Boob Design

Ribbed Maternity Tank Dress With Nursing Access Trench Coat

Buoy Button Down Dress ~ Black
Credit: Show Me Your Mumu

Buoy Button Down Dress ~ Black

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Author

Alexis is a freelance personal stylist and shopper, with more than a decade of experience working in the fashion industry. Her styling work includes editorial and film projects, as well as working one-on-one with clients of various lifestyles, ages and shapes, helping them define their style and enjoy getting dressed. You can find her @alexiskahlerstyle on Instagram and at www.alexiskahlerstyle.com