“Dressing up made simple: stress-free outfit prep for mums” is a collaborative post.
For many mums, comfies and loungers become the staple wardrobe when you welcome a new baby to the family. Comfort is key when you’re recovering and spending long periods at home snuggling a newborn and gradually adapting to life as a larger family. An invitation that floats through the letterbox or drops into WhatsApp might trigger excitement, but it’s so common for mums to become stressed or overwhelmed. After months of prioritising comfort, how do you dress for a special occasion or event? If you’re familiar with this feeling, we’ve got you covered with our guide to stress-free dressing up for mums.
Check the dress code
The first thing to do when you receive an invite from a friend or family member is to check the dress code. If there’s no information, ask the host and check with other guests. Group chats are great for working out what other people are wearing and getting an idea of how smart you need to be. For some people, the opportunity to glam up will bring a rush of excitement, but for others, it can be daunting. If there is a formal dress code, and you’re not used to wearing gowns or snazzy skirts, don’t panic. There are so many options to choose from if you don’t fancy wearing a dress. You could opt for a tailored suit, a smart jumpsuit or a skirt and top co-ord, for example.
If the dress code is more casual, consider the location and the forecast. Summery weather lends itself to floaty dresses and skirts or lightweight top and trouser co-ords. In colder climes, tailored trousers and maxi skirts are ideal. Add a waistcoat or blouse, or team a basic cami with a fitted jacket or blazer.
Pay attention to detail
If the thought of putting a whole new outfit together is making you apprehensive, focus on the details instead. Choose a classic or relatively understated outfit and add interest and personality with accessories and finishing touches. Depending on the event, you could try out a new look with coloured contact lenses or embrace seasonal trends with statement jewellery or a bag that is guaranteed to turn heads. If you’ve got a trusty black dress that you know will make you feel comfortable and confident, for example, you can elevate your look with an embellished collar, a chunky necklace, chandelier earrings, a bold clutch or a fabulous pair of shoes.
Try different styles and pieces
We often have preconceptions when it comes to body image. We assume that we won’t suit certain styles, fits or trends and we’re often guilty of writing pieces off before we’ve even tried them on. This is particularly common when you go through changes in body size and shape during pregnancy and after giving birth. Many women find that they feel different when they look in the mirror when they’ve had a baby. This is totally normal. The best thing to do if you’re dressing up for an occasion is to give yourself time to get an outfit together and freedom to explore different looks.
Order online and try pieces in the comfort of your own home or plan a solo shopping trip or an outing with friends. You may be surprised at what suits you best and which items you love. Try to be open-minded and focus on the positives rather than the negatives. Nobody tries a whole rail of clothes on and looks amazing in everything!
Getting dressed up for a party or a wedding may trigger a mixture of emotions for mums. It’s exciting to be glam, but it can also be daunting. To eliminate stress and boost confidence, check the dress code, get ideas from other people, pay attention to detail, embrace accessories and finishing touches and try different pieces and styles.
