There’s an undeniable strength in women, especially during the incredible journey of childbirth. The transition from pregnancy to motherhood is not just a physical change but also a transformation that shows a woman’s courage, determination, and love for her baby. In those first days after giving birth, as you hold your sweet newborn and navigate the whirlwind of emotions, finding the right clothing can make a huge difference.
Comfort is key in the immediate postpartum period. Your body has undergone immense changes, and the last thing you want to deal with is restrictive clothing or anything that adds to your discomfort.
But it’s not just about comfort; finding the best postpartum clothing is about feeling empowered in your new role while honoring the powerful experience your body has just gone through.
If you’re about to give birth (or know someone who is), read on for our favorite pieces that don’t just feel good–they’re functional, and best of all, they look good, too!
Essential Postpartum Wardrobe
1. Nursing-Friendly Tops:
If you plan to breastfeed, easy-access nursing tops are essential. Look for styles that feature hidden panels or buttons. Wrap tops or loose-fitting blouses can also be excellent choices, as they allow for quick and discreet feeding.
The right top can give you a sense of normalcy and style, reminding you of your pre-baby self while accommodating your new needs. Amazon has a ton of great options for comfortable everyday nursing tops. Another great website for new mamas is Latched Mama. They have blouses or everyday tops if you’d like more diversity.
2. Postpartum Leggings:
After I gave birth for the first time, I (mistakenly) thought I’d go back into my pre-pregnancy jeans right away. Little did I know that for a few weeks, I’d still look pregnant! So don’t make the same mistake I did: be prepared with a few high-waisted leggings or stretchy pants that provide support without constriction. While you could always continue wearing your maternity leggings, splurge on some new pieces that aren’t quite so stretched out and worn.
Ingrid and Isabel offer basic postpartum leggings for tummy control and postpartum support. Motherhood Maternity also makes great post-pregnancy leggings with gentle support and compression for ultimate comfort.
3. A Soft Robe or Cardigan:
A cozy robe or long cardigan can be a lifesaver in those early days. Whether nursing in the middle of the night or simply looking for something to wrap yourself in, a soft layer adds warmth and comfort. Choose one that’s easy to throw on over your outfit and gives you that extra feeling of coziness as you bond with your baby. Barefoot Dreams makes a cardigan that’s worth the splurge. It is SO soft and comfortable, you’ll get plenty of wear out of it.
Caden Lane is one of our favorite brands for many reasons; however, their beautiful, soft, and accessible robes may be our favorite pieces. Not only are they stunning, but also so convenient for nursing and your daily postpartum activities. As a bonus, you can match your little one in your favorite prints.
4. Comfortable Matching Sets:
Matching sets have become a go-to for new moms, combining style with ultimate comfort. Look for lounge sets that feature soft and stretchy materials, making them ideal for both lounging at home and quick trips outside. The added benefit of a matching set is its instant put-together look, allowing you to feel cute even in the chaos of new motherhood. We love PinkBlush’s biker shorts set for its soft yet high-quality material. Amazon also makes cute, inexpensive lounge sets in a variety of styles.
5. Supportive Underwear:
While not the most glamorous topic, supportive underwear can make a world of difference. Look for postpartum panties that offer gentle compression to support your healing body. High-waisted options can help alleviate any discomfort while providing coverage and support whether you had a c-section or vaginal birth. Kindred Bravely makes a stylish wide lace band panty that won’t bind or pinch yet is supportive with full coverage.
6. Nursing Bras:
A good nursing bra is an absolute must-have for new mothers. The right nursing bra can make breastfeeding more manageable and help you feel more confident in your changing body. I will forever sing the praises of my Kindred Bravely nursing bra. Not only is it one of the few bras available for all breast sizes, but it is also a two-in-one pumping bra. It’s comfortable for daily wear and still provides great support. Seriously, it is worth the investment for all moms.
7. Comfy Pajamas:
After giving birth, the last thing you want is to feel constricted by tight clothing, even during sleep. Invest in a few pairs of comfy pajamas that prioritize softness and breathability. Look for sets made from natural fibers that allow for movement. Choose styles with loose-fitting tops and wide-leg pants or shorts, allowing you to feel relaxed and cozy while still looking put-together.
Target makes a soft and inexpensive brand, Auden, that makes cute, comfortable, and breathable pajamas in many different patterns and shapes.
Soma, another great brand for pajamas, has Cool Nights, made with the highest-quality materials intended to cool those postpartum night sweats.
This GAP nightgown is made of lightweight material and is nursing-compatible, making those middle-of-the-night feeds that much easier.
8. Dresses and One Pieces:
Postpartum dresses and loose jumpsuits are fantastic options that blend comfort with versatility. Choose dresses with empire waists or wrap styles that accommodate your changing body while still feeling feminine and flattering. Latched Mama has a nice selection of nursing dresses that don’t look like a typical nursing dress. They are stylish and trendy and come in all sizes.
Stretchy jumpsuits offer the same ease and can often be dressed up or down, making them perfect for a casual day at home or a quick outing. Look for pieces with adjustable straps or elastic waists to ensure a perfect fit as your body continues to recover.
Pink Blush is another great maternity and postpartum clothes website that is made to help you find flattering clothes for your changing body.
Celebrating Your Motherhood Journey
Choosing the right clothes right after having a baby is more than a practical decision; it’s a way to take care of yourself. As you transition into motherhood, surround yourself with items that make you feel confident and comfortable. The journey of motherhood is as unique as each woman’s experience of childbirth, and your wardrobe can play a vital role in how you navigate this transformative time.
In those early days with your newborn, remember that it’s perfectly okay to lean into comfort while still celebrating your newfound strength. You’ve just accomplished something extraordinary, and the clothes you choose to wear can be a small yet significant part of embracing this new chapter of your life.
Our team at RegistryFinder wants to do all we can to keep you in the know of the best way to take care of your every need during those new postpartum days. This journey is hard and beautiful, but you got this! Don’t forget to check out our Give It Blog for Postpartum Essentials Every Mom Needs and The Postpartum Season No One Prepares You For.
