Reclaim Your Style Story: A Postpartum Guide to Dressing for Work
An ideal dress for postpardum, this discreet slit makes pumping or nursing easy.
It’s been 15 years since I went back to work after the birth of my son, but as a personal stylist for women based in Seattle, I see many of my clients struggle with the same challenges. In fact, this post was inspired by a request from our recent Women in Finance Workshop.
It’s hard enough navigating the complexities of life with a newborn, whether or not you have other children. Heading back to the office can be both exhilarating and exhausting. But when you factor in not only what to wear, but how to feel good in your ever-changing body, things get even more complicated.
Hence this blog post.
We’re diving into some of the key issues that come with heading back to work. Like many women, I was pumping during the day at the office. I also traveled between offices in the Seattle area, adding more challenges. Between my own experience years ago and what I’ve learned from clients since, I’ve gathered quite a few insights.
Here we go.
Prevent leaking between meetings
One of the most common fears I hear from women returning to work after a baby is the dread of looking down and realizing they’re leaking. Not to worry — you can head out the door with confidence by keeping a few tips in mind.
Start with the right bra.
Opt for a bra designed to absorb leakage and provide comfort long after you give birth.
Wear nursing pads when meetings run long.
Whether you buy some or make your own, nursing pads offer an extra layer of reassurance that you won’t have any surprise leaks.
Choose bold, dark, busy prints to camouflage moisture.
A white top without the right bra underneath can easily draw attention to a leak. Instead, try darker, busy prints to distract the eye.
Dress in layers.
This is standard in the Pacific Northwest, so layering up won’t draw attention. Always having a top layer — a cardigan, jacket, or scarf — is an easy way to conceal damp spots if needed.
This subtle tshirt comes in three colors (including stripes) and is a polished choice for postpartum including a slit to pump or breastfeed without sacrificing style.
Prints are a great way to camouflage. This is ideal for postpartum style- sophisticated, flattering and easy for pumping. The long sleeves mean you can skip layering if that appeals to you. Keeping things simple.
Double breasted blazers are flattering for a Diamond body type and for a postpartum figure.
Boxy styles minimize your stomach and this sophisticated style feels just right for work post baby.
2. Hide Your Baby Bump
I don’t know about you, but I was delighted to show off my baby bump when I was pregnant. But when a member of the board at my workplace congratulated me on my “pregnancy” — when my son was already a year old — I was less enthusiastic.
Your body will continue to change over the course of weeks, months, or even years after birth. If you’re ready to minimize your stomach now, I have just the strategy for you.
Dress like a Diamond.
Even if you don’t technically have a Diamond-shaped silhouette, this approach works beautifully. A Diamond body type features shoulders and hips that are roughly aligned, with a waist that’s wider than both. If you’re not seeing that “hourglass ideal,” you don’t need to change your body — you just need to change your clothes. Opt to show off your arms and legs while drawing the eye toward your vertical center.
Shift out of maternity clothes when you can.
You don’t walk out of the delivery room with your old body — that’s normal. But when you’re ready, it’s time to buy or rent clothes that aren’t labeled “maternity.” Even if a dress has a similar cut, it feels completely different to wear something not designed for pregnancy — especially your pregnancy.
I once had a delightful client who hadn’t bought clothes since her kids were born — 10 and 12 years earlier. And the number of women who still have maternity pieces in their closets years later may surprise you. Shift toward silhouettes that flatter a Diamond shape and away from items designed for maternity wear.
Consider renting this flattering style as your body changes.
3. Consider Renting “Flavor” Pieces to Bring Excitement to Your Wardrobe
Rent “Flavor” Pieces to Bring Excitement to Your Wardrobe
Now that you’ve had the baby, you have more options available to you again. Be kind to yourself — and try to avoid the pressure to get back into your pre-pregnancy jeans anytime soon.
Pack away anything that doesn’t fit and focus on a small capsule wardrobe that works for your current body and lifestyle — especially if you’re breastfeeding or pumping. Regardless of life stage, the goal is the same: wear pieces that align with your authentic personal style, color palette, body type, and values whenever possible.
With those filters in mind, head to your favorite online rental company and make getting dressed fun again. Not sure where to start? Try Nuuly (if Anthropologie speaks to you) or Rent the Runway (if you’re just getting started).
Easy for pumping without sacrificing style.
Bring joy to your collection and flatter your frame. Just right for postpartum.
4. Embrace Your Style at a Lower Price Point
Embrace Your Style at a Lower Price Point
You may not typically shop at Zara, Abercrombie, or Uniqlo (this is as close to fast fashion as I get), but hear me out. Both the woman who requested this post and I love Quince for this phase of life — it offers a higher-end feel without the price tag. I’m also a big fan of Marcella NYC and Nordstrom Rack.
A few strategic pieces from an unexpected retailer can make getting dressed fun again. You’ll be able to wear current styles that work for pumping or nursing — without breaking the bank.
One of my absolute favorite pieces, this ethically made vest comes in multiple colors and is a great way to elevate any outfit. Sophisticated, functional and useful for postpartum return to work.
5. Know What to Invest In
Pieces that shift with your body are always a smart investment. Look for styles that can adapt to weight changes without needing replacement.
A wrap dress is timeless, flattering, and flexible — ideal for both pumping and breastfeeding. Layer it with a leather blazer to feel polished and a little edgy, if that aligns with your personal style. That blazer will likely continue to fit as your weight shifts and will instantly elevate your look.
Expressive shoes complete every outfit and giving you a spring in your step. A low heel is a nice compromise as you transition back to work post baby.
Fall in Love Again with Your Shoes and Accessories
The most important guidance I can share is to enjoy it all. Be kind to yourself. When you feel good about how you look, you interact differently with the world.
Take a few minutes to explore what helps you feel confident right now. And if you need a little help — that’s what I’m here for.
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