Coming out of the first year of being a mum and feeling dowdy - help me find my style please!

[butternut234]

My son is almost one and since he's been born I've been living in black breastfeeding tops that don't show leaks (don't know why i can't find nice ones that fit) and jeans. Black really doesn't suit me - I have had my colours done, but for some reason none of my fat clothes current clothes are in the right colours. I don't have time to put make up on or blow dry my hair really - only what I can do in the car with son safely strapped in (so no hairdryer ha ha!) on my way somewhere before I go.

I'm 5"3 and 62kgs so I'm trying to lost the last 5-7kgs back to my old clothes, when I will feel more like myself. What can I do in the meantime? I just feel so frumpy - please give me a couple of tips I can do quite easily that will make me look more groomed/make me feel a bit better in the meantime!

Thank you.

Why not get some accessories in the colours that suit you to wear with your existing outfits eg if blue is your colour then get a neclace with blue in it or a brooch or a scarf.

What about a nice pair of sunglasses. No need for much eye make up just some lipstick to save you time.

I'm just in the mood top spruce myself up a bit after having my second, I'm hardly style queen of the year but these would be my tips:
1 - get a good haircut which is easy to maintain
2 - buy some clothes in the size you are now. no point waiting to lose weight and feeling m,iserable, even a couple of tops which fit will make you feel better
3 - eyebrow wax and manicure

YY to accessories. Belts and shoes will still fit you when you lose weight. Necklaces and earrings (but my baby grabs at mine) make you look like you've made an effort.

Nice bag instead of changing bag (I got a really nice Fossil on in TK Maxx)

Today I went and got a load new vest tops as mine were all stretched out.

I'd suggest leggings and a dress, wrap dress or low-cut + vest top if you're breastfeeding. Was in the same situation as you when I saw another mum wear that and she looked really nice, even though it's comfy and easy.

get some comfy wedge heels
they do wonders and make you feel dressed up even if your just wearing jeans
I got these from clarks today and they're soooo comfy

Hi there, you are not alone and although it feels like an uphill struggle there are a few little things that will make the world of difference.
Look for flattering clothes which drape or ruche as these will not only becomfortable but will also be practicle.
if you are looking for a a dress which will be great for breast feeding you should take a look at a company called CEE Chic, it stands for Chic Elegant effortless just what you want right about now, they have a small growing collection of dresses which sound perfect for you. Here is the link hope you find something I'm sure you will :)
folksy.com/items/1968537-Navy-Blue-Mock-Wrap-Tea-Dress?shop=yes

I'm in the same situation, DS is 8 months old and I'm back to work in a month. Still have 5 kg to lose before any of my old work clothes will fit.

I have a couple of cheap scarves from Primark. They add colour, can be used to hide marks on top and bf under, DS can pull/suck them and doesn't matter too much as they were only £2-4. I got 2 of one design and sewed them together to make a longer scarf.

I have an Isabella Oliver ruched waist maternity t-shirt which i wear on really fat days. Bought it on ebay after I had had DS but IO jersey "springs" back into shape to it isn't baggy just ruchey (if that is a word).

Have also bit the bullet and bought a couple of pairs of trousers in my current size. You could maybe look on ebay? Can always then sell them on if when you get back in your old clothes (sorry - this is directed back at myself - I will lose it I will will!)

Lastly - if you have the money (and it is pricey) how about getting that keratin conditioning thing done? I think it is called a Brazilian Blowdry in some places. my MIL got the full thing done at her hairdressers for £180. It is a conditioning treatment after which your hair is straightened very slowly doing small sections at a time. You then have to leave it for 3 days (no tucking behind ears or tying back). You then have lovely soft non frizzy hair. MIL's looks fab and has been frizz free even on her (several) holidays to Majorca.
I am going to get an express version done at Saks before I go back to work - it's £90, and they just blow dry your hair afterwards. I was thinking I would then go home and straighten my hair myself. hopefully will make my first few weeks back at work a bit easier as I have rubbish hair!

Ooh also (sorry on a roll)
a new bra - made me feel better once I had stopped bf-ing to have one which hoiked them back up my chest.
New make up? I have just spent birthday money on new foundation from Clarins and got my Mum's birthday present at the same time so also got the 3 trial size freebies (which are actually pretty big) and nice sales lady also gave me lots of other trial sizes of stuff to have a go with. We have the excuse that we are post pg so need to sample lots of things "because our skin has changed alot after being pregnant" Clarins lady nodded along to that line and loaded me up with things to try. Could have been DS's smiles which charmed her but I wasn't complaining!

yy to new bra :)