Most British mums avoid social situations, and it's all down to clothing. Fresh research from international parent-care brand Tommee Tippee reveals how life after childbirth impacts women's feelings about their wardrobe choices.
Survey Reveals Widespread Style Confidence Crisis
A survey of 1,000 UK mothers with children aged 0-5 discovered that two-thirds (65%) no longer connect with their pre-pregnancy style since becoming a parent. More than three-quarters (78%) confessed they steer clear of wearing pieces from their pre-baby wardrobe entirely.
Nearly two-thirds (64%) revealed they have dodged social occasions because they lacked confidence in their available post-birth clothing options. Half (50%) disclosed that bodily changes were the primary factor behind feeling less assured about dressing after having a baby. For many, this results in dependence on a limited selection of 'safe' outfits.
Limited Wardrobe Rotation
More than three-quarters (76%) of postpartum mothers wear the same handful of looks repeatedly, with 6 in 10 (66%) focusing on concealment rather than showcasing their individuality. Nevertheless, nearly two-thirds (63%) revealed they would be more inclined to try fresh colours, prints or styles if they received guidance from a specialist, and 71% wished more styling advice was accessible after childbirth.
Expert Collaboration
To assist mothers tackling the difficulties of postpartum fashion, Tommee Tippee has teamed up with celebrity stylist Sian Clarke, who focuses on helping women feel self-assured when dressing after having a baby through practical, day-to-day styling guidance.
Sian comments: 'Postpartum dressing is really about adjusting to a new version of yourself, not trying to return to the old one. It's no surprise that two thirds (66%) of mums say they feel caught between their pre-pregnancy style and the need for more functional clothing - your lifestyle changes so much after having a baby. When clothes work with your body and your day-to-day life, confidence naturally follows.'
Sian Clarke's Top Tips for Postpartum Styling
- Choose Open Necklines: Necklines can transform how an outfit feels postpartum. Open necklines balance proportions, elongate the frame and can boost confidence, while also making breastfeeding easier if needed.
- Coordinate With Your Little One: We're seeing a growing social trend of mums matching outfits with their babies, and it's no surprise. Coordinating instantly makes an outfit feel intentional and stylish. Polka dots are a simple retro way to try the trend, while the Tommee Tippee Clubhouse Soother range offers playful colours and patterns to coordinate with ease.
- Choose High-Waisted Pieces With Stretch: Postpartum bodies fluctuate, so high-waisted, stretch or elasticated pieces offer comfort, flexibility and support while still feeling flattering.
- Invest in Button-Down Shirts & Blouses: Button-down shirts are a postpartum staple - breastfeeding-friendly, easy to layer and perfect worn open as a light jacket.
- Try Monochromatic Dressing: Monochromatic dressing - wearing different shades of one colour - is an easy way to look instantly put together. Think tonal blues or layered greens for a polished, effortless feel.
- Use Colour to Support Your Mood: Colour can have a big impact on mood, especially postpartum, so introducing these shades in small, wearable ways can help lift everyday dressing: butter yellow is uplifting and energising, sage green feels calming and grounding and soft coral brings a gentle boost of confidence and vibrancy. Even small touches can help bring a sense of identity back into getting dressed.
- Don't Be Afraid of Pattern: Breton stripes are an easy way to introduce patterns and instantly elevate basics. Postpartum style isn't about 'getting your body back,' but dressing the version of you that exists now.
- Stop Comparing Your Style: Postpartum style is deeply personal, and the best looks come from dressing authentically. If something catches your eye, trust your instinct and try it on.
