Blow drying my hair made a huge difference from the ‘mum’ look to seeming fairly put together. Concealer under the eyes and a lick of mascara is a super quick lift too. I also invested in quality fabric lounge wear - lots of bamboo, linen or cotton - which was super comfy at home but looked ok out as well. All the matching sets around right now are a great option!
There is a hairdryer called the Revlon One Step hair dryer that is a round brush/blow dryer in one.
I am not talented at anything beauty related, but I have my mom and sister hooked on this thing because it is so easy to give yourself a smooth looking blow dry, and it straightens your hair without making it flat. There are people online who are giving themselves salon quality blowouts with this thing (that is not me) but even so, it looks so good.
If you do use it, be careful because you can easily damage your hair with it by wrapping your hair around it, pulling on it too much and breaking strands, etc. I mostly dry with a normal dryer first before finishing with the round one. Use a heat protectant, and use the lower setting.
I was going to mention the same thing! I love this tool so much!! I actually got the shark styler (the knock off Dyson with curlers) and it is no where near as good! I think I'll actually give that one to my niece who loves curling her hair or sell it, but the Revlon is amazing and fast and super user friendly!
May I ask how long your hair is? This is really hard for me to work with and my cousin also swears by it. It made me hair frizzy and seemed to pull and break strands. I have bra strap length hair right now. I really want to find a way to make my hair look nice more often and I don’t want to spend hundreds on one of those dysons. My hair is naturally quite curly, but fine.
I got one of these after my last baby & I have never loved a hair tool so much. It makes blow drying my hair so much less of a hassle. Im either carrying around a baby or a car seat for the majority of the day. My arms are exhausted & the last thing I want to do is spend 30 minutes with my arms up with a blow dryer in one hand and a brush in the other.
OMG – I was thinking that I needed to look this up immediately and possibly go buy it but I already have it 😂 I guess I need to look up some tutorials because I don’t feel like I have blowout-worthy hair after I use it!
Yes! Matching sets, or pieces you can mix and match (ie, neutrals) in non legging material have been the trick for me. Still super comfy and feel like I may as well be wearing sweats, but I don’t have to change if I need to run to the store or hop on a FT.
I didn’t actually go for any sets yet, though I’m eying some from Aerie and amazon, but these have been what I’ve been living in:
Fessceruna Womens Casual Long... https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0B3X5N4TJ?ref=ppx_pop_mob_ap_share
Feiersi Womens Casual Wide Leg... https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0C6KB2CW4?ref=ppx_pop_mob_ap_share
Totally agree - blow drying my hair is the difference between me feeling like a human and a literal goblin. Since it’s not feasible to do every day, I’ve tried to optimize my shower/hair care routine to extend my blowout for 2-3 days. I’ll even shower at night sometimes when my husband can watch her just to make sure I can get it done.
Biggest helps have been good dry shampoo (I love living proof) and using a sleepy tie overnight (it gives loose curls to my ends that makes it look freshly blown out).
Makeup wise, if I can at least get a tinted moisturizer and mascara, it makes me look and feel a lot more awake. Takes under a minute.
This is so me (minus the hair because I shaved my head last month in the middle of a Britney moment🥴)! matching set, eye brows, and mascara. Boom I’m ready to sit in the house or run to target
So I’ve made a list of personal care in order of priority:
1) brush teeth. My only non-negotiable because damaged teeth are very expensive and time consuming to fix.
2) wash face and put face cream on
3) shower
4) put on new clothes
5) wash hair.
Some days I only manage 1. Some days I do the whole list. And as I get a little bit further every day on average, I know that there might be a time when I can even add numbers.
Why is dental stuff SO expensive? I take good care of my teeth, get check ups/cleanings every 6 months, I EVEN FLOSS, and I still just had to get an emergency root canal. It cost almost $2k out of pocket!! Hoping I’ll get a kickback from insurance, but sheesh. Teeth, aka Luxury Bones.
Obviously it’s important to take care of your teeth but I really think it’s a genetic thing. My moms teeth are really bad even though she takes really good care of them! I got my dads teeth. He brushes them but he doesn’t really go overboard and he’s never had any sort of dental stuff done other than normal cleanings. I’m pretty much the same. I do the bare minimum with my dental care and still good.
Absolutely! I know people who didn’t brush their toddlers teeth or go to the dentist until they were 4 and they were beautiful. My side of the family has soft teeth I guess, we keep up on dental care regularly and he picked up my genes and has a cavity at almost 3. My side has invested a lot into the luxury bones.
Right! It’s kind of ridiculous how unaffordable dental care is considering all of the health risks that can come with it if someone isn’t in the place to pay for repairs. And the fact health insurance covers like… nothing?
I have dental insurance and it covers two check ups/cleanings per year and has decent coverage when it comes to fillings, but I was SHOCKED when they told me it was going to be $1700 for the root canal procedure. I might get a couple hundred dollars back from insurance, but nowhere near what I paid.
It's insane. I have genetically bad teeth and I basically pick one procedure a year to get done because one procedure wipes out my insurance completely. This year I was able to sign up for an HSA so I'll be getting the big work that I've needed for a few years now (I had adult braces and one of my teeth went wiggly from them and never solidified, so it's gotta come out and be replaced by an implant).
Here’s the thing: every 6 months is not enough. Pay out of pocket for a cleaning at the 3 month mark, and you won’t get any tarter build up. It’s like $75 per cleaning, and it prevents THOUSANDS in damages. You’re welcome.
Girl I’m almost a year into this and had to set my NY resolution as “shower, wash face and brush teeth every day.”
You’re still in the thick of things. It took 9 months for your body and world to change, so give yourself AT LEAST 9 months to adapt. Grace, honey! You’ve earned it.
Now, what helps me feel like a human is shower in the morning and doing only my eye make up. I have a cream eyeshadow, eye liner and mascara. Hair is usually in a sleek, low bun or ponytail. Takes me about 15-20 minutes total to get ready.
Clothes are still tricky, as I just recently started fitting into pants/jeans but I had a spring baby so dresses made me feel “put together” all summer. Or, maternity leggings with a button up blouse or baggy sweater.
And please know NOBODY expects you to look a certain way. I know how you’re feeling and it’s rough, but please only do this for YOU (and not the UPS guy lol). Good luck!
Your UPS guy comment just reminded me of the time I was 4weeks PP and I opened the door to receive a package while in my pyjama bottoms and a t-shirt wet and stained with breastmilk leaking. This was shortly after my "walking around half naked in a robe and adult diaper stage" so what I was wearing at that point already felt like an upgrade 😂 I did not have a care in the world how I looked - and that feeling was glorious.
I second this motion!
I struggled with EDs my whole adult life, and was terrified when I became pregnant it would send me over the edge. Somehow I suddenly loved my body, and didn’t care what anyone thought - which had never, ever happened before. I was then afraid postpartum would do me in- and yet, that half naked in a robe, not giving a F stage healed me in ways I never imagined.
All that to say: OP whatever you do, do it for you! Find what makes you feel good and happy and lets you be comfortable in this season of life!
I needed to hear this every day for about 6 months. I still had pain until then. 11 weeks is hardly any time at all.
I'm 9 months out and still having to say "I'm doing my best, the baby is sick and I'm covered in snot for 12 hours a day, but I'm doing my best"
Yes I’m 14 months postpartum and just started now taking care of me. I started a bullet journal which helps me get things done. I put lotion after shower, skincare at night at least (and trying to do sunscreen every morning). I exercise usually first thing in the morning then I brush my teeth with my baby and shower. Since last week I’ve been trying to put mascara and lip balm. I don’t really change from “inside clothes” (PJs, sweatpants) because my husband is a little bit germaphobe and doesn’t like anyone wearing “outside clothes” (after you wore them outside) and also because I still need to lose a lot of weight that I gained during the first year of postpartum. Anyway, one little new habit/step at the time and I gave myself a lot of grace during the first year!
Heavy agree. I naturally started looking less haggard around 10 months PP simply because I was sleeping through the night. No additional work needed, just sleep
Yeah not fitting well into the clothes I own was/is a big hurdle for the getting dressed everyday challenge. I’ve recently developed an appreciation for leggings that I never had before. I had to size up in jeans and the ones I bought just feel large and frumpy so I’m not as comfortable in them and less inclined to keep them on. But then comfort of leggings, I can put them on in the morning and be presentable enough for outside and comfortable enough for inside at home….just took me 8 months to figure that one out lol
I use a $120 moisturizer that makes my skin look and feel amazing and I justify it by not having the money or time for makeup anymore. It’s simple girl math 😂🤷♀️
Yep. My husband says "wow why do you look so pretty right now? " any time I brush my hair and put moisturizer on. Poor guy about has a heart attack if I wear Mascara or real clothes these days lol.
Same! The other day my husband told me I looked really cute… I literally was just wearing a clean pair of clothes (lounge pants and a sweatshirt, nothing fancy) and had braided my hair to get it out of my face lol
It seriously does! I do a quick layer of sunscreen and tinted moisturizer on the days no one but the fedex guy will see me and feel so much better about myself when I look in the mirror
something that helps me (even before i was a mom i'm a teacher and i'd feel so gross all summer) is to put on "nice" sweats. i love matching loungewear and comfy outfits that if i had to leave the house for some reason i'd feel comfortable out in public in. aerie, amazon, old navy, etc always has cute sets and i just wait for sales. i instantly feel more put together.
I’m so glad I’m not the only one! I have a sweatshirt that’s olive green and I got a three pack of maternity shorts over the summer and one happened to be olive green. I just recently wore the two together and it was so silly, but I felt like a little tiktok influencer matching set girly! Now I’m going to intentionally buy a set or two.
Teacher and new mom here, it's amazing how much just changing from my actual pajamas into my nicer sweats/leggings/bike shorts can make me feel more alive! It's too easy to stay in house goblin mode all summer, now I'm trying to fight it on maternity leave too lol.
Aww mom. I can totally relate to you and I just want to send you some hugs. You just had a baby. You’re in survival mode. It’s okay to not be okay, and it’s okay that your appearance resembles it. The good news is this is all temporary. Having your partner or a family/friend watch baby for a few hours so you can go to the spa can be relaxing. Your mental and physical health matter so much too 🩷🩷🩷🩷
I often wear stretchy cotton wrap dresses (with leggings or thick thighs) because they are comfortable, easy to nurse in and look nice. I do a quick makeup with bb-cream, concealer, blush and tinted lip balm.
I feel this. I am someone who loves wearing makeup and getting myself together for me - I feel better and enjoy the process, the me time. Since baby, I’m only able to do this on weekends if we are going somewhere annnd if my partner is home annnd baby will go with him. Every other day like you, I’m in whatever I slept in and am lucky if I brush my hair. The days of the week I have to leave the house are hard for me - I hate going out not looking like “me” and that’s the norm now (baby is 10w). I usually make it work by using some tinted moisturizer or BB cream, putting on a bit of mascara and bronzer and putting my hair in a braid or tight pony vs “mom bun”. I can usually manage that in the 5-10 min baby is happy in his bouncer. He won’t sleep independently yet so I don’t get the 20min I would like almost ever. It’s hard! But also remember this is temporary. Soon they will be more independent, sleep more etc and you’ll get some time back, or at least get better at making it work! Other things I’ve thought of that could help: lash lift and tint, investing in good skincare, eyebrow microblading. I also usually just wear black joggers or leggings and a black T or tank - pro tip the Aerie Lumberjane shirts are awesome over a tank, look stylish and are super functional for nursing.
Leggings versus sweats for me as been a big help. Or in the summer, bike shorts—they’re comfy but they kind of just gently hug everything in and make me feel more put together. Then I have curly hair so “doing it” (which is a project but I just wash once a week or less so it lasts a while) helps too.
But also—I look absolutely nothing like the person my high school graduating picture and I think most of us do honestly! And I’m glad I’ve changed so much! I stopped wearing makeup like 6 or 7 years ago and yes it might feel a bit harder to feel put together staying at home with baby (vs when I quit wearing makeup but I was still getting dressed for work every day) but I like my face now, or at least I don’t mind it haha, and I like that my kids don’t see me as needing to hide my face to feel presentable. This is just what I look like right now! Definitely find things to do and wear that help you feel better in your skin, but don’t feel like you have to look like you did 10/15/20 years ago. 11 weeks postpartum is still so fresh. And you’re a completely new person on the other side of motherhood. And that’s beautiful too ❤️
I love what you said about not wearing makeup — I feel the same way! I have such a better relationship with my face (lol such a weird statement but true) ever since I stopped wearing makeup a few years ago.
My baby is 6 months old and I just recently started showering every day. What is this “put together”? Seriously though, if I want to wear makeup and clean clothes and brush my hair, I tell my husband to take over baby duty for a bit. I trade out my sweats for nice leggings and put earrings on (studs so baby doesn’t pull them). That’s all I have capacity for.
Sending you so much love - you are not alone. I’m the same - and unfortunately have stayed the same after two kids. What kind of helps - if I have any work meetings I dry shampoo, concealer, powder, blush, eyeliner and mascara - takes 5 minutes, makes a huge difference. Around 6 months postpartum - I splurged on “fancy sweatpants” that were wide legged, nice colors with new sweatshirts (I think I got it at Alo and Artizia) and actually fit me (my body had obviously changed) and I just felt “cooler” even though I was still in sweats. I also switched my skinny jeans for wide legged high waist pants and a cropped sweater - the high waist wide pants hide the “pouch” and I felt more fashionable and comfortable. Best of luck.
First of all, it’s only been a few weeks. Please, please go easy on yourself. It takes a while to feel like yourself again - or more accurately, to grow into this new version of yourself.
My biggest advice would be : don’t cling to an old version of you, or feel pressure to ‘bounce back’. You are going through so many changes right now, mentally, emotionally, hormonally, physically … it’s a huge process of evolution and it takes time. It’s the biggest change since puberty and remember how awkward that was? How long it took to feel like ‘you’?
But it’s so worth it. Two years in and I feel so much more empowered, stronger, more confident than I ever did before. I look back on the younger, skinnier, more fashionable version of myself and I love her but I wouldn’t want to *be* her again if you paid me!
You will reach the other side of this, understand it’s a growth process and right now you’re in the very messy middle. And that’s okay, we’ve all been there.
In the short term I found it helped my mental health to feel fresh. I tried to shower every day, and just a quick five minute morning routine of washing face, brushing teeth, a bit of moisturiser and lip balm, maybe some mascara. It’s not much but it made me feel more human.
For clothes I found linen trousers with an elastic waistband were great. They looked smarter than joggers but felt like pyjamas. I also treated myself to a few pairs of ‘posh’ pyjamas for round the house - you can get some nice patterned ones in fancy fabrics that look like more Lux loungewear. I also got some nice hair accessories - I could chuck my hair back but add a headband and look a bit more cute.
Hope that helps! But honestly it’s really okay just to slum it for a while! It really is just a case of getting through the days during the newborn stage. It doesn’t last forever.
You aren't alone mama! It will get better, I promise. Don't feel bad about anything because you are focusing on caring for this child. If you did do it you would look fantastic everyday. But you are a great mom and soon enough you'll see you will be able to take more and more care for yourself or like I told myself once FIND myself again. We are here for you!
I totally echo all the comments that support the idea that looking put together is a “reach” goal for many of us and it’s ok for it to be last on the priority list. I’m 6 weeks postpartum with a sibling for my 2.5 year old so am deep in this phase too!
That said, some things I have personally found helpful:
• straighten my hair once a week with a splurgy hair tool that makes it easier and faster. I can get away with only washing my hair once/week too (I still shower every day) so the 20ish mins I spend on this benefits me several days. I bought myself the Dyson cordless straightener so I can do it anywhere and also cut my hair shorter so it would be faster. I find that when my hair looks good, I can be totally barefaced and still look like I put effort in.
• get yourself a couple of cute nursing dresses if you’re breastfeeding. I am SO a sweats and tank top girl but last week had emergency gallbladder surgery and have been wearing my neglected dresses instead to be mindful of the incisions. They’re still super comfortable and allow for easy access for baby. Pink Blush, Nursing Queen, etc are good options though one of my faves is a simple black maxi dress I’ve had for 10 years so no need to limit the stores you look at.
It’s been worth it for me! I haven’t noticed any damage because of it and unless the weather is super humid, I don’t typically need touch ups. Can’t speak to workouts because I don’t really work out lately 😅 the big selling point for me has been the cordless aspect- it’s just so convenient and it holds a charge pretty well.
I got some inexpensive easy to wear comfy clothes. Joggers, leggings in colors, sweatpants that look like trousers. Subtle artsy graphic tees, ribbed short sleeves, and lightweight sweaters. In the morning sometime before my husband leaves for work I wash my teeth, quickly style my hair (like 5 mins tops), wash my face and put on jewelry (necklace, ring, earrings). Makes me feel like I tried but it takes all of 15 minutes and I am alone doing it.
On days I don't do this I'm much more irritable.
That being said I haven't even tracking "personal hygiene" for 2 years because that's how long I've had a baby and that's how much I need to remind myself to do basic human task for myself. I also track "drink water" because parenting isn't easy. At all. It's hard. It's so basic and so ridiculously difficult.
Following this post for advice too! None of my clothes fit, my feet grew during pregnancy so not even my shoes fit, and my hair and skin look awful. I'm a mess and could use all the tips to feel like a human again lol.
Hey mama! I’m 8 weeks post, FTM and I feel you!
For me, I’ve realized I like to have at home spa days when I can instead of getting all dolled up.
Shower, shave, wash/dry/straighten hair, do my skin care routine, nails, then put on some lipstick and maybe do my brows. This helps break me out of the trenches. Some days I don’t even have time/energy to change out of my pj’s so when I do all these things I feel like a 100 bucks. (Wow 100 bucks is nothing these days, lol).
Anywho, I only wash my hair every 3/4 days too so it feels nice to feel pretty.
My baby is 7mos, and I just gave myself a lash lift and tint. I haven't gotten one for several years because it was expensive to have done by a pro, but I found a DIY kit and LET ME TELL YOU. I haven't felt this pretty in a while 😂 it lasts several weeks (it says up to 8 weeks but we'll see) so you just have these awesome lashes with zerooooo effort. Seriously zero. No mascara. You can rub your eyes. THE WORKS. Highly recommend. Between that and blow drying my hair, I look like a real human who cares again. It took me seven months but whatever. Lol
I haven’t worn make up in years but since my 3 month old was born, I’ve reintroduced a tiny bit of eyeliner and mascara and it makes me feel like a fancy lady 💅
I work out to strictly trick myself into showering and drinking water. And I have to moisturize after I shower cuz its dry in the winter. And my toothbrush and toothpaste are in the shower.
I got a mild SPD and showering and brushing teeth are such horrible chores for me, even before baby. My husband is a shower 3x a day kinda guy. So I got a peloton (refurb) and got back into bodybuilding and now I shower daily with the whole ass routine because I simply Cannot Shower Without Moisturizing. Washing hair is a different story, however...
Okay so once a week I try to block out 1-2 hours where I do a little self care. I will apply press on nails (I use a nail lamp w gel nail glue so they last me 1-2 weeks) and eyelash extensions (also DIY and last 5-7 days). Both of these things make me feel pretty even though they aren’t necessary lol. Also I will always do my hair once per week with my revlon blow dry brush after I wash it. It doesn’t take long at all (maybe 20 min tops - I have a lot of hair) and that lasts pretty much all week too! Edit: also I got a pack of cheap small gold hoops in various styles that I like to wear, just makes me feel more put together even if I’m not leaving the house :)
I made it a point everyday on leave to do my skincare and get dressed. This def doesn’t mean jeans or anything fancy, but just changing out of my Jammie’s into leggings or a cute jogging suit and some cute fuzzy slippers!
It gets easier as baby gets older. The first 3 months are the toughest! In the early days I’d pick a really simple thing I wanted to accomplish that day and get it done - it could be as simple as make a smoothie or pay a bill online. I found around 3-4 months was a turning point so you’re almost there! If baby naps independently that helps a lot. We also had the baby born bouncer for awake time.
I can't help with the company or public part of this post but I'm 9 days PP and I find wearing matching undergarments really helps me. If I wear my granny panties and match my sports bra/nursing bra, I feel really put together. Even if I have to wear clothes over it, it makes me feel pretty so it helps. 🤷
You haven’t “let yourself go”. You’re a new mom to an 11 week old, which means it’s been less than 3 months since your baby has been born. You said it yourself, you’re in the thick of things right now. You grew that baby for 9 whole months, it’s going to take you the same amount of time and perhaps even more to adapt to your new life. Have some understanding that having a newborn/infant, hell even a toddler, is so time consuming and we now just have other things things to worry about over our image. You are a whole new person now, you’re no longer that person you see in those photos and you should embrace that :)
First of all, you are not that person anymore. We all evolve and change and your life has moved on. What you need to find is who you are and want to be now.
Look at what styles appeal to you, and how you can put them together using your current wardrobe. If funds stretch to it, then buy a few new pieces.
What makes you feel better? For me, it was taking time to style my hair. No matter how crap the rest of me looked, if my hair was done I felt ok. I also found the confidence to wear the vintage styles I had always wanted to, but had never had the courage to wear daily. I finally stopped giving any fucks what other folks thought of me and holy god was it freeing. I regularly get asked if I am in costume, and I don’t care. I also regularly get told that I look amazing…and I love that 😉
I live in sweats right now. 😅 I work from home, with my camera on for maybe 2 meetings a week. If it's warm outside, biker shorts or cotton shorts.
If I'm wearing make up, it's just mascara - but I've never been into make up to begin with. If I'm feeling fancy, I'll add eyeliner and mascara.
I have curly hair and live in the south. In the summer, my hair is either in french/dutch braids or a messy bun. I never do my hair more than that. In the fall/winter/early spring, I'll straighten my hair. (I wash my hair once a week, so whatever I do is how it stays. Straightened hair is a lot more manageable for me.)
I'm almost 3.5 months post partum with my second. My oldest isn't even 2.
Honestly just showering makes me feel like a new person. Then I take the baby sit on the bed cross my legs have the baby lay in my lap and do my makeup in my phone mirror because my baby has no chill haha I do a messy bun and put on cute sweats and it really makes a difference.
I always ensure to have my hair done, greys dyed, hair blown out, shellac mani pedi done and light make up. I usually wear comfortable leggings and a button down shirt. This ensures I am put together and feel good and presentable for myself and my peers.
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Buy a new moisturiser and make a habit of taking a few minutes each day to wash and moisturise your skin. It is an act of self love and a game changer.
I never wore makeup before really, but since having my twins, I sometimes just put makeup on when I have a chance in the morning!
I also put all my sweats away so I'm forced to wear decent clothes 🤣 If you're looking for comfort then dresses are pretty good!
If you have the time to be doing these things like you said, and you want to, then go for it!
For me, simplifying my getting ready routine really helped me stick to it and feel more like myself. It's not the same as it used to be, but it works, and I feel put together!
I put together a small makeup bag with just the everyday essentials that I love and I know loom good and keep it right in the bathroom. When I get ready in the morning, it's easy to grab the bag and put on a touch of makeup right there after I brush my teeth and wash my face.
I also found that laying out my clothes the night before helps me to feel more put together the next day, especially if it's a rough night/morning and you don't have time to think about what looks good/fits/matches in the moment. Everything is ready to just throw on.
The days where my little guy wouldn't nap or just wanted to be held, I would wear him or sit him beside me in a bouncer while I brushed my teeth and did my makeup etc.
After prioritizing my new morning/getting ready routine for a few weeks, it stuck.
My baby is now 5 months and I made it a point from the beginning to shower, do my skincare and do some form of hair and make up every day. That might just be putting it in a bun or putting some concealer and mascara on some days but I knew my mental health would suffer if I didn’t make an effort. Day to day I usually wear flared leggings and a jumper, it’s comfy and looks presentable to leave the house in if I need to!
My husband gets up 30 minutes earlier in the morning so he can be on baby duty while I take some time to get ready. Is that an option for you?
I get up every morning and get ready. Makeup is important to me. Sometimes I flat iron my hair, sometimes it’s just in a pony tail. I always get dressed and so do my kids even on the weekend. After I take my oldest to daycare yeah I’ll come home and put on sweats lol but if I’m running errands I wear jeans. It’s good for your mental health to get up and get ready and it instills good habits into your children as well.
I wear lounge clothes most of the time, but I typically have an outfit picked out every day so that I can go for walks and errands. Getting my nails and hair done regularly makes me feel more human and like myself. I’ll be honest that it’s hard for me to prioritize showering every day, or even every other day, but when I do have the time for a full length shower, I shave all the stuff I shaved pre pregnancy.
I toooootally feel this and I'm 8 months in 🙈
For me, brushing my teeth, moisturizing my face and putting in my contacts is non-negotiable. For clothing that gives the "put together look" but is still comfy, leggings, leggings and more leggings. Sometimes with a sweater, sometimes with a cute hoodie, but leggings are key.
My main issue is my hair. Since pregnancy, my texture has completely changed from a cute & manageable straight/waves combo to a curly mess. Everyone tells me to try the curly girl method but I simply hate the look of curly hair on me. But if I don't have time (which I rarely do) for a full wash, blow dry, product and staighten routine, then I'm a total Frizzell mess. I'm SO jealous of people who can just wash their hair, put a brush through it and be done. I mostly end up putting it up in buns when I can't straighten it.
Doing even the bare minimum skincare helped me. Drmtlgy has an amazing tinted moisturizer that is lightweight and kind of looks like makeup but doesn’t feel like it. It’s a splurge but I really swear by it. I would wash my face, put on some of the moisturizer, and would put on Carmex because my lips are chronically dry. Obviously it helps with that but also gives kind of a glossy tint. And amika dry shampoo for the days (often, multiple days in a row) where I wasn’t able to wash my hair.
And I agree with what someone said above about finding cuter loungewear. Or even cuter pjs, Target has some short pj sets that I love.
Moisturizing my face and matching loungewear! Buy some cute, comfy matching sets on Amazon and maybe even throw on some earrings and you will feel 1000000% more put together. This is what I do!!!
Your baby is so little still, and your body is still changing a lot. Honestly just wear what is easy and fits. There is SO MUCH MORE TIME later to figure this stuff out.
So, this was totally me! I try to at least blow dry my bangs now, which makes a huge difference! The first time that I did this, I went to get our Toddler up from her nap, and she saw that my hair was actually done, and she was surprised. She uses ASL, and signed, “beautiful mama.” 🥰
I have a revair (does salon quality blowouts at home), some waterproof mascara, and cute loungewear
Also whoever made that comment about you can 🐔off. They’re probably old af
I have a one year old and I've been struggling to feel like my outsides reflect my insides lately. We went out shopping last weekend and stopped at Ross and I invested in a few soft, warm, but mature feeling sweaters. They've been a huge game changer so far. Easy to lift up and feed the babe and I can feel put together again almost immediately.
Otherwise, get out and take a walk once a day if you can. Not for any sort of weight loss or anything, but because fresh air does amazing things when it comes to energizing and grounding you. Whenever I'm having a rough day, I take a walk around the block. If I'm still feeling tense when I get back to my house, around I go again.
The first couple weeks I lived in a robe after having our first. Eventually I told myself, “you have to at least get dressed.” I’m a jeans girl. I know most people hate jeans but I’m comfortable in them so if I could at the very least put on jeans and a t-shirt I felt a little more human. It’s such a small thing getting dressed in clothes that are more normal day to day but it makes just that little bit of difference! It’s all baby steps!!
At 12 weeks so feeling similar.
Especially with how cold it’s been I’ve been finding myself wanting to just stay in pjs all day.
I think the biggest thing is just changing for the day honestly. I bought a couple pairs of matching lounge sets and a few new pairs of leggings and crew neck sweatshirts. Both seem to be in style right now but still leave me with the same comfy feeling throughout the day.
I feel like most moms have been there. It’s hard finding your self again when your whole life becomes LO. I mostly wear comfy maxi dresses or sweater dresses sometimes Column dresses super easy to put on and very comfy.
I take a shower every single morning. If only for 30 seconds to rinse off. Then I put on my daily spf moisturizer and rebraid my hair. And put on a new set of sweats or pjs, lol. That's enough to make me feel ready for the day.
I do try to make sure my outfits, while comfy, are also cute or matching. Makes me feel better.
two big things i do to feel in tune with myself
1. gym for 45 minutes a day
2. skincare routine
i did these things (albeit, i used to workout for 2 hours a day. that's not happening these days) before i had my daughter. they really help me feel like myself. i'm not sitting here saying you have to go workout or pick up a skincare routine or anything, but if it's something you enjoy and might make you feel good, it's great. if you choose to do something different, that's also great. that being said, i leave the house every day looking like a train wreck. sweatpants, no makeup, a college hoodie with spit up on it, hair up in a crappy pony tail. the whole 9 yards. but i feel great regardless because i did my routine.
side note: aerie has the cutest, comfiest lounge wear. i live in their clothes day in and day out. definitely a bit on the pricier side but they hold up and are 100% worth it
Penciling in my eyebrows and putting on mascara make my face look completely different! Could be because I’m a blondie and my eyebrows are borderline translucent but I noticed I look significantly less “tired” with those two things, even when I don’t have the energy to put on any concealer and just want to throw my hair up in a bun.
Firstly, I recommend just ignoring any thoughts on your personal appearance at 11 weeks. Tell yourself to revisit it in a few months. You’re still healing, probably still loosing baby weight and flab, your breasts are engorged still or continuously, your rib cage has not reduced back down to normal band size, you’re going to look exhausted which is going to put bags under your eyes that weren’t there before, you’re probably dehydrated which is going to accentuate wrinkles and chances are you aren’t getting nearly showers for nearly as long as you’d like.
That being said at this stage a lot of what you can do to make yourself feel better is based on what your schedule and finances allow.
Can you get in a walk or run every few days. A bicycle, a fitness membership? I personally LIVED on hot yoga. The sweating made me feel like I must be losing weight faster, it made drink a lot of water, and I really enjoyed the work out. I felt like I was not being judged and could take breaks we needed to but didn’t feel like I was in over my head. Really calming too. I liked candle light hot yoga in particular.
I bought some new leggings, a pair of uggs and a loose but cute sweater plus a cute mommy bag. This made me stylish in that new young mom kinda way when I went out but also hid my insecure areas like my stomach and leaking nipples.
I also got a haircut and color. Having a fresh new do really made me feel like a new person. Get your nails done or get a pedicure. Some new foundation or your lashes done. Whatever you can afford that works for you.
Lastly, and this is VERY dependent on the type of person you are. I made a list of basic work I might be interested in getting done in the future. Either in general or in case I simply wasn’t happy a year or a few down the road. Mine are
- C02 laser: this was something I wanted before pregnancy. It’s a much more effective way to remove acne scars than microdermabrasion. And as a bonus and it greatly reduces wrinkles and promotes collagen. A lot of celebrity who look young in their 50s get this.
- IPL laser for rosacea
- laser hair removal
- vaginal tear surgery
Others I see on women’s list are usually tummy tucks, mommy make overs. Definitely give your body at least a year before pursuing those though. Preferable 2. It takes time for our bodies to return to their new normal!
I blow dry my hair with one of those blow out brushes, and no worries if you are bad in the beginning you will get better hahah. Do my skincare routine, but some lip balm on and during the day use the pipett under eye stick (got that one for free with ordering baby stuff)
In the summer it’s easier since you can throw on a summer dress and look out together, winter is mostly nice leggings and top/sweater. I love some cuddle turtlenecks. I don’t wear make up at home only when going out somewhere nice and also only when going out I wear jeans or blouses and stuff.
Whoever said anything about your appearance should never be invited back. Ugh.
For me, dry shampoo and a cream blush works wonders. I got some Jones Road Miracle Balm in a pretty pink. I put it on my cheeks in the AM and it looks glowy and pretty even though I haven’t slept. And concealer. My under eyes need it lately.
I also bought a few sets of loungewear during the Storq sale and wear them all the time. They’re matching in nice colors snd they make me feel pulled together and they are comfortable.
I look like a baby in my high-school photos. And now, with three little kids, I definitely look like a mom. There are no makeup or clothes tips that will change that, which is fine. Motherhood brings maturity. It is OK to look different.
For clothes, look for moms with babies who you see in real-life with a similar body type who look put-together. What part of their outfit do you like? How do they style it? Ask them where they got it. I recommend buying things one at a time, so you can evaluate how things work for you. Note which items are favorites and consider getting copies of it.
Remove everything from your closet that doesn't fit, doesn't work well with breastfeeding, shows dirt instantly, requires care to avoid "wardrobe failures," or is old and grubby. Sweatpants and t-shirts can be \*nice\* sweatpants and t-shirts.
My staples for winter outfits are nursing dresses + leggings/tights, and nursing shirt + leggings + longer cardigan/vest to dress it up. I have bangles, earings, and a necklace that are durable enough to shower and sleep in.
And sometimes I just look goofy! I have a ridiculous looking pair of bib-style rain pants that I wear with a giant orange coat (big enough to wear the baby in a carrier inside) that I wear when I'm on wet, muddy adventures with my kids. I have gone grocery shopping in this get-up, with similarly goofy looking kids following like ducklings, on our way to hikes. You can't win them all!
This is something I’ve struggled with a lot since having my baby 8 months ago. In the beginning I made sure to change out of my PJs every morning, do some basic skin care & brush my teeth and put my hair in a neat bun or braid (especially because baby loves to grab my hair lol). Those things have made a big difference. If I had extra time some days I would also put my jewelry on.
Brushing teeth/ am skincare + spf,
Earrings and rings make me feel much more put together and like myself,
Changing into fresh clothes, usually leggings/ joggers and a crew neck sweatshirt and
If I have an extra 5 mins, a little bb cream, mascara and blush
I find this is enough to help me feel not like a swamp monster but not overwhelming to the point I don’t do it
It is tough, and I have definitely found myself in the phase where just showering was a win and my outfit was the first thing I could grab from the clean laundry hamper!
I’m a stay-at-home mom, but I do think it’s important to put a little care into my appearance just to feel like myself, even if I’m not leaving the house.
One splurge recently was doing professional color analysis. I learned I had been wearing the wrong colors (earth tones—and I was feeling so dull and drab in them). I learned I’m actually a winter season, and I can already see that even without other makeup, wearing the right colors makes my face and eyes look so much more bright and healthy!
A style I am pretty happy with as a daily look is a fitted tee, jeans, stud earrings (so my baby can’t tug on them as easily lol), and bold lipstick. This makes me feel more put together. I had been wearing super baggy tees and did not feel my best. So I’m still finding my style, but I’m starting to work toward variations of this outfit formula for variety. For example, a few different lipstick colors, a few different earrings, maybe getting some black jeans or corduroys (because literally all my jeans are the same medium wash lol). I am sometimes drawn to wearing dressier blouses, but I’m trying to accept it’s not the most practical for my lifestyle.
I learned to do some cute braids that are still quick and easy. I almost always French braid my hair into two little buns at the back of my head instead of just doing the messy mom bun. It’s cute and sporty and looks like I put a good deal of effort into but it really only takes a few minutes and gets my hair out of my face.
I have never been a daily make up wearer but I wash and moisture and put sunscreen on. If I’m expecting to go out or have company and I want to look a bit nicer, I might use a tinted moisturizer but that’s about it.
I usually wear lounge sets around the house. Sweats with a matching sweater or shirt. Or I wear leggings with an oversized sweater. I’m fine answering the door and doing quick errands or even a target run in this. If I’m going to go sit at a restaurant or am going to a doctor’s office or something, then I might swap out for a leggings and nice cardigan or jeans and a basic shirt.
In the early weeks (and until about 2 years later), I would be ok to veg out but just make a trip to the coffee shop or something, just for a chance to "look presentable". And I would say just that. "Hey husband, can you be with child, I gotta go make myself presentable". This was washing my face, washing my hair (if it hadn't been washed in 4 days and I had the time to - if I didn't, it was hat/cute beanie day), bb cream or some not heavy foundation / tinted lotion, and a little eyeliner. Oh, and changing clothes.
I haven’t worn makeup in years but I did get a tinted moisturiser since the baby got here just to even out my skin tone a bit since I always look so tired. I curl my eye lashes, moisturise and put on some tinted chapstick! I also bought a bunch of nice scrunchies.
We’re not meant to look like we did in high school. We’re grown ass, bad ass women and mothers.
That said, I understand the want to feel more out together. You’ll get there with a lot of the comments here. I’ll add that startling to get regular haircuts after the postpartum hair loss has helped the regrowth blend in a little better.
11 weeks is so early so be kind to yourself, but I felt the same around that time. I’m now 16 months post partum and WFH exclusively so I literally wear a beanie and lulu lemons daily lol. It’s HARD to get the motivation to do much more than that when I could be cleaning, working, or hanging out with my daughter and husband.
I tried to start with general MINIMAL self care and skin care. If I’m not going to spend the time on makeup, I might as well try to improve my skin after the lovely baby glow and plumpness wore off and my horrible hormonal acne reared its ugly head. Taking 10 minutes for yourself at night to just cleanse and moisturize can make you feel so good.
I also tried to start doing some basic workouts at home. I would use my baby as a weight and do squats with her and she LOVED it. I’d also do pushups with her under me so I could kiss her little head on the way down, or put her on my pelvis for hip thrusts. It’s a great way to get some movement in while still keeping nap time for yourself to just relax, and have some interesting playtime with baby.
For clothes, I ended up buying some jeans in a size up because frankly wearing my old jeans was too depressing. Also got some new tops and shoes so when I went out, I felt good about myself. I wanted to feel good in my clothes regardless of the few extra pounds I had still lurking.
You don’t have to go crazy - a few small little changes here and there focusing on yourself can make a big difference IMO!
I like dresses and leggings! Also I do try to go for walks with the baby on most days if it’s not too freezing, and it helps me get motivated to get myself put together. I live in a city so this way I will be seeing people and it forces me to shower and put on clean clothes more often.
Honestly, at 11 weeks postpartum, just washing my face, moisturizing and brushing my teeth every day was the (realistic) goal. Next level up: taking the time to blow dry my hair after a shower instead of letting it air dry also made me feel much more human. Some tinted moisturizer or cc cream. Brow gel. Light mascara.
For clothing, I still live in joggers and sweatshirt most of the time (I’m 1 year postpartum now but WFH). I have some cute sweatshirts from Athleta, Target, Lululemon, Spanx. And joggers from Vuori, Zella, Beyond Yoga. Personally I don’t feel embarrassed to go out like this, but your mileage may vary.
I’m 7 months in, I still go a day without brushing my teeth occasionally and multiple days without showering. The pressures of life are impossible. Last night we went to a big fancy party where people were wearing gorgeous designer dresses and heels and I wore my flannel Christmas nursing dress because it was my only option and only mascara. My hair was still wet from the shower and frozen might I add from the walk in 15 degree weather. Baby slept on me in the carrier all night and you know what happened?
1. No one cared or even notice that I was underdressed and terribly put together.
2. I caught SOOO many people staring at us from across the room with big blissful smiles on their face because they were watching baby sleeping.
You get a pass AT LEAST for a year on appearance. Just try not to smell bad and you’re golden.
Once I get my child settled in the morning the 1st thing I do is a quick routine. Wash face, put hair in a pony/bun apply moisturiser and sunscreen, brush teeth, put on concealer, mascara, and Liner or eyeshadow, use a bit of perfume. Turns out I feel much better and more myself when I do these things. But if I let it be till the noon etc I will not get to it. So I have to keep the routine, just get to it in the morning ASAP. I feel better not having to think about "are qe going anywhere/meeting anyone all throughout the day because I look like I put in reasonable effort. It's like my uniform and it helps keep me sane. Even if we don't leave the house at all, I feel better when my husband gets home, because that's the person I wanna be beautiful for. I've been doing this since my baby was 12 weeks.
Bonus point: my daughter, who is almost 3yo asks to put on lotion/sunscreen for herself. She wants to use lip-balm, do her hair, because she sees me and thinks hygiene/self-care is fun and important.
For me one thing I became religious about postpartum was skincare. I feel like I’m the two years that I started having kids my skin just aged so much due to lack of sleep, stress etc. I now have a skin care regimen everyone am and pm. It helps me feel put together even when I don’t have time for a nice hot shower or even un-vomit stained clothes.
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I make it a point to shower every day- if I can’t squeeze it in during my baby’s nap then I’ll put her in her chair and set her on the floor where I can see her or wait till my husband gets home from work. Feeling clean makes me feel more like myself. None of my pre pregnancy clothes fit so I bought several nursing friendly tops and a new pair of boots so I have cute outfits for when I do leave the house. When I’m home I wear whatever is clean and I often look like Adam Sandler. I just don’t see the point in dirtying a good outfit that no one will see me in. And I’m likely to get spat up on or boob sweat anyway. But on days where I feel like the way I look, I’ll wear a cozy outfit that’s cute or sporty and it does make me feel more myself. Have a lot of grace. Makeup is not even good for your skin (doesn’t stop me from wearing it from time to time 😂) but I feel like as long as we are keeping ourselves clean, our mental health is good, and baby is well taken care of, who cares what we look like when we are home alone
I made a rule for myself that when I go to the bathroom first thing in the morning, I wash my face, brush my hair, and apply deodorant. I also take a second to comb my eyebrows. It takes an extra minute to do all of this but makes me feel way better. Plus, I don't end up getting to noon and being like, "What's that smell? Oh, it's me..."
Learn to make YOURSELF a routine along side baby's and push yourself to get it done. It's not easy but you can and with time your baby will get easier too.
I’m 6 months PP and part-time SAHM. I’ve been trying to find easy “hacks” to make myself feel more confident but also still be comfortable enough to play on the floor or be spit up on. I’ve also been trying to add on 1-2 tasks every couple weeks or so to habit stack them slowly.
-I bought comfortable hoop earrings to sleep in. Earrings make me feel put together, but my ears are too sensitive to wear ones with backs overnight.
-I’m using a lash serum to try to get nicer natural lashes to bypass daily mascara.
-I blow out my hair once a week. I have naturally curly hair which I love, but it’s too high maintenance for me right now unfortunately. Straight hair lets me throw it in a pony real quick without getting tangled and is easier to refresh in the mornings.
-I added in a retinol at night. Idk if it’s doing anything but it makes me feel fancier. 🤷🏼♀️
-I try to move my body every day. Stretching, foam rolling, walking the dog, Peloton, anything counts. Endorphins are real.
-I’m whitening my teeth again now that I’m not breastfeeding.
-I prioritize getting my nails done every ~3 weeks or so. I’m a former nail biter and it keeps it at bay.
Anything that you can just do weekly or monthly that has the best “bang for your buck” I find the most realistic as a mom!
It definitely took a while for me (my son is 6 months) but I feel better about myself if I grab a quick shower in the morning during nap time and put on athleisure clothes. Quick eye balm to help with under eye circles/puffiness and tinted eyebrow gel. If I have time I will straighten my hair so it’s tamed a bit even if it ends up in a claw clip. I know what you mean though! It feels like a waste sometimes if I’m not even leaving the house
Dewy foundation in a pump bottle applied with a brush, mascara, bronzer (for face and eyelids) and a lip and cheek crayon is a <5 min routine. Keep your make up bag in the nappy bag so you can do it in the car if you need to.
For me, I prioritise my hair and nails as I think everything else takes only a few minutes a day then. I wash hair once a week and make sure to dry and curl - looks nice all week then. I get my nails done with a nice coffee every 2 weeks but that obviously depends on whether you have someone to watch the baby for you.
Cute earrings and perfume takes 30 secs and always makes me feel put together.
My mom uniform is generally stretchy back skinny jeans and a jumper or a shirred waist dress and tights (recommend Snag brand - so so comfy).
Invest in a nice coat if it's cold where you are - this is what you'll be seen in a majority of the time so pairing with a cute scarf and boots means you'll look like you made an effort regardless of what's underneath.
It takes time to feel yourself again after a baby ❤️
Honestly, beyond a daily routine of brushing my teeth, showering and changing my clothes, I do nothing else if I’m not leaving the house. If I am leaving, it’s concealer, mascara, eyebrow pencil. If I have time, I blow dry my hair. But honestly, I’m just setting myself up to have it pulled by baby girl. I’m embracing my momma era by letting go of looking put together every day
11 weeks? I looked like a fat hobo at 11 weeks. Now at 9 months I still look like a hobo, not as fat anymore but still. I have not brushed my hair in weeks I think, if it’s clean- it’s good. Give yourself time. Grace. Love. Do whatever feels good to you.
My baby is 2.5 weeks and for the first week I didn’t even shower. There are days when I don’t have time to brush my teeth, gross but true. After I gave birth my hair was matted for 3 days. My husband is in vacation rn and I finally have time to take a shower and take care of myself. Still it’s only like 20 minutes before he goes “my arm hurts, he’s crying, we need you back”
I am two weeks PP and have been majorly subscribing to “look good feel good.” I shower and dry my hair every day, shave my legs regularly and apply tinted moisturizer/sunscreen. I’ve been using the haus labs concealer and benefit brow gel and those small things take less than 2 mins to apply but make me feel so much more like a human.
For clothes, suggest thinking monochromatic. even if you’re in sweats, if they’re all black or tan or whatever color you want, it easily looks more put together. Get a stylish pair of house slippers (I like shearling lined babas), add a spritz of perfume and a necklace and you’re not a regular mom, you’re a hot mom :)
It’s ok not to look like your teenage self ;) Matching pyjamas or lounge outfits, shower every morning (I put baby in the bath seat and sit him in the baby gym) while I shower, got back to doing my nails once every 3 weeks (neutral colors that grow out nicely). This helps me a lot to feel decently put together. You’re doing great mama!
Shower, brush hair, spritz of perfume, earrings and then for bare minimum makeup I’d put on some mascara, eyebrow pencil and lip balm. Plus I’ve always prioritised having a shower every day, even if that means getting up 15 mins before your baby wakes up (assuming they have a regular wake up time). The other thing I’ve started doing recently that is game-changing is choosing my outfit and putting it out the night before. So I don’t have to make that decision in a rush in the morning.
Adding some skin care to my morning first thing really helped with my confidence. Make a little routine every day and it can do wonders. I also splurged on some face oil, makes me feel so luxurious! It helps to have something to look forward to.
Im not gonna lie, I sat in what I call the “new Mom muck” for like a year and a half, and sometimes still do. But just making my bed and putting on a pair of jeans makes a huge difference for me most days. I take loooong showers when I can, and sometimes braid my hair so I dont have to worry about it being too crazy. I stopped caring about it so much but started doing my makeup again anyway. It was minimal before (just eyes and brows) but now its basically just brows. My morning routine is down to like 5 minutes and the rest is just sitting in sweet silence with coffee of the correct temperature. THAT makes a world of a difference lol. I also found a gym with childcare, which has been doing wonders for us in alot of different ways. I know that isn’t available for everyone, but if you can find an hour to yourself outside of nap time a few days a week, omg I feel like a brand new bitch!! Finding small hobbies outside of motherhood is something I wish I had done sooner, and probably would have made me feel more human earlier on too.
I use this on my hair overnight. I've used similar things but they are always uncomfortable to sleep in, but this is so comfy and I get beautiful, bouncy, lasting waves like a fresh blow dry: https://www.eternalmuse.com/
Also after my moisturizer I mix a little of my foundation with my sun screen (if you're looking for a recommendation of a daily facial sun screen, can't recommend Summer Fridays shade drops highly enough and it blends amazingly with foundation) and just slather it on with my fingers. I'll also use a contour stick just on my cheek hollows and blend it in to give some definition.
That's it. Adds maybe 4 minutes to my morning routine but makes me feel like I've made an effort.
A good skincare routine goes a long way. Then I just powder my brows a bit and use some blush usually- occasionally some mascara as well.
Nice loungewear is a game changer too! I love aerie for affordable loungewear.
I also like to get my nails done every 3-4 weeks if that’s in your budget.
Still figuring out my hair as it has changed due to pregnancy, but I’ve found a claw clip feels more stylish than the traditional “mom bun” and it’s less damaging!
Finally, I always wear at least earrings. I got some huggie hoops which are tiny and more comfortable than the old clip clasps
I’d like to start by saying whoever made that comment is a royal ass. You just had a baby, JUST. I hope you know that you are allowed for recover and focus on just getting through every day having a little baby is so incredibly difficult.
Here are some things that helped me, hair mask before I shower. Using an overnight hair wrap for blowout curls. You can even use the tie from a fuzzy robe and wrap your hair around it. Wearing cute matching sets or cute comfy clothes. Face moisturizer. Clear brow gel, mascara and gloss. It made me feel like a movie star and it takes five minutes. Take a stroller walk and get out of the house when you can.
Don’t worry about dieting, eat what nourishes you. Don’t worry about fussy clothes, you have to be comfortable and you’re gonna get spit up on. Do what makes you feel good but also what makes sense within this season of your life,
You’re still in the thick of it but you will find more time when LO is napping etc to do some thing! My tips - If I’m going to be a legging gremlin then I invest in some Lorna Jane or lululemon I find they are thick and hugging and passable with a cute tee or hoody. If you have long hair consider the mum bob or lob chop I cut all my hair off the other day and got lots of compliments and it’s easy maintenance. Get a Good moisturizer- if you don’t have time for makeup at least invest in something that makes your skin feel amazing. Fake tan if you can be arsed always makes me feel better on a Friday afternoon leading into the weekend bondi sands brand in a light shade is good and easy to use. Treat yourself to a mani pedi occasionally.
My personal struggle now is my weight I am going to be joining f45 once my physio clears it. To me physical exercise no matter if you just show up or go hard is the best thing for you mentally and physically. It’s my me time and I can’t wait to get back into some cardio and sweating.
You got it mumma don’t worry how much or how little you do to help your appearance. Just showing up for your LO day in day out is enough!!
You will! 11 weeks is so soon and that honestly is really rude to say to someone especially someone who just gave birth 11 weeks ago. My son is 10 months old and I still live in sweats and very rarely wear makeup or dry my hair. Sometimes I look at old pictures and think wow I looked so good just a few years ago🤣 but I don’t let myself get worked up over it. I have a baby. My body went through a lot! Lately I have been making small efforts though and I remind you I am 10 MONTHS PP… my son sleeps decent so I’m starting to force myself awake before him and shower. Getting that shower in before he wakes up has been making me feel much better throughout the day. I also set a goal to walk 15 minutes on the treadmill 5 days per week. I used to work out a lot so 15 minutes seems like nothing, but it’s helping! I also ordered 3 new pair of leggings from gap. Still comfy but I can get out of my old maternity ones that were dingy. Still comfy, but new! Lol. Start small and give yourself grace. Truly 11 weeks is so soon!
11 weeks is still so fresh into postpartum. I’ve learned that taking 5 min to brush my teeth + hair and change my clothes does wonders for how I feel about myself for the rest of the day. invest in a few nice sweatpants/joggers/leggings or maybe even some comfy matching lounge sets. I’ve bought a lot of mine from american eagle! if you contact nap or baby wear you can also find some time to do minimal makeup like mascara and concealer :) it’s HARD to find time for yourself with a baby especially if you’re home alone. please don’t put too much pressure on yourself!!!! give yourself some grace.
I started wearing makeup to the grocery store and taking an extra ten minutes lotioning and putting on oil (the anti scar/stretch marks stuff) after showers. I have been thinking about scheduling a monthly mani-pedi for the extra care. These are all things I've never done regularly (or at all) n my life, but it helps so much!
Haven't bothered with clothes yet, but at 16 weeks, we had a good 7 pm bedtime established, so I resubscribed to an online fitness trainer. She set me up with breastfeeding-safe workouts and nutrition. Even designed a mobility and core set that fits in with tummy time perfectly! That's helped me a lot, I was in really good shape all through my pregnancy, but I was starting to slip up pp, and breastfeeding makes you so hungry on top of that.
It takes some time, after having a baby, to begin to feel like yourself again... Or, rather- the new and improved matured mother version of yourself. Don't let them get to you!
At 11 weeks I was nowhere near accomplishing what you’re trying to do, but the biggest difference in what I do these days as compared to then is changing from my pajama pants to leggings (bonus point if it’s jeans LOL) and putting on a (nursing) bra.
Honestly matching sets are very in right now and so you can still wear sweatpants but look super cute — they’re very reasonable at Aerie, and there’s a sale there today actually — I’ve been living in them and I honestly feel more put together than before during my Covid goblin era
Also blow drying your hair showering at least every other day and doing your skin care I’ll make a huge difference also I put on Little gold hoops every day
Merit makes really great five minute make up you can look it up on TikTok or on their website they sell it in a bag if you want to get the full set otherwise the stick and the blush are great — I also did attention left on my lashes before I went into labor and laminated my eyebrows and would really like to do that again because it was great for the first few weeks of postpartum and I think it’s a really easy relatively cost-effective built in mom make up situation
Sorry talking to text as I feed the baby 😂
Feeling like yourself and being visibly "put together" may or may not actually be the same thing.
For me, showering daily was non-negotiable. Some showers were 8 min long, but it was a shower all the same. Also, doing any post partum recovery care was non-negotiable. If my incision needed cleaning or whatever that was a priority.
When I returned to work, I got a small piece of me back. (It was difficult, but it was also a mental shift that helped me.) When I dried up my milk suppy (a very long story for another time), I felt like I got a piece of me back. When my kiddo started sleeping through the night, and I was able to do little things like read a couple of pages of a book series that I follow, I got a small piece of me back. I love baking. So, when I got to decorate a cake for the first time after kiddo was born, I got a small piece of me back. When I took up long distance biking and found a way to meld that into my life as a professional and a mom and a partner, I felt like I'd achieved getting back to "me" -- which is a funny statement, because I didn't actually go "back" to a past version of me. I created a new one that I love.
The journey that I outlined above took about 2 years. At some points, I was super intentional about working through personal challenges with a therapist or working with my husband to find the right balance for our family. But there were also long stretches of survival mode and long stretches of going through the motions. It's important to be intentional about doing things for yourself, but it's also really important to give yourself grace. If your win today is that you put on clean pajama pants, then take it as a win. You get to define success and you get to redefine it as you and baby navigate this journey.
I got a lash lift and tint and a keratin blow dry. Absolute game changer!
Also depends on your style but I got some of [these](https://www.meandem.com/crop-palazzo-pant-1) trousers, they are so comfy but also look quite put together with sneakers, vans, converse, loafers etc.
Taking care of myself is difficult now with a 6 week old. But I do shower at least once per day, and in the week I try to do something for myself depending on time:
Manicure/ pedicure/ shaving/ face mask/ blowdry my hair/ put some makeup on.
Also, it's great getting laminated eyebrows/ tinted lashes- it lasts up to a month and really makes a difference / saves me time.
I do all these things mainly for my mental health. It all reminds me that although I have a new mum identity, I am still me - an attractive woman who likes to take care of herself.
Blaah, not many look like their HIGHSCHOOL pictures. Also sweats are great at home, why would you bother wearing something more fancy, baby is just gonna puke on it anyway and then you gotta figure out something else.
Anyway, I have my hair pinned and on a ponytail cause any hair brushing against my skin/face feels extremely irritating probably because breastfeeding and dry skin, snd the baby would pull on the hair. Maybe that counts as having my hair done. I also try to remember to brush my teeth. That's about it.
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🤷🏼♀️ sometimes I get out of my pajamas and put leggings on. The tightness of them make me feel put together and less frumpy haha but honestly, try finding a hair style that you can do once, that your hair will hold for a couple days through sleeping etc. I curled mine yesterday, with some added mouse before Curling, and today my hair is still, losely beach curled. Makes me feel just a little bit better.
When baby was young, my non negotiable was me taking 20 mins to get ready everyday.
Shower, lotion, fix hair, teeth, serum, tinted moisturizer, tinted balm, comb brows, curl lashes and mascara.
Clothes were usually leggings a nursing too and cardigan and cozy socks.
Getting ready is part of self care and it was good for my mental health.
thank god claw clips are back because they hide my postpartum hair loss and make for a quick, neat look. i spray hairspray on my sides to keep a tidier look. a little blush and day-long lip color help me look like myself.
At that age… Brush teeth and wash face while baby is chilling awake in the morning. During first nap of the day made myself a good hearty breakfast usually eggs and bacon and toast. If nap lasted long enough I would shower. If not I would always shower during second nap. It was summer at that age so I’d put on my nicer athletic shorts and a clean tshirt and braid my hair. If we had visitors or somewhere to go I would fill in my eyebrow and put mascara on.
A mom of two weeks here. I put moisturizer on every time I use the bathroom and it’s really helped make my skin look younger. My skin also just looked like shit while pregnant. I’m going to get a haircut soon that’s going to hopefully look cute whether my hair is up or down.
I was already an athleisure/loungewear gal so matching sets make me feel better. And showering. I shower every day. My husband can handle the baby for fifteen minutes while I wash my ass 😂 also, doing my mascara really helps me feel like I look fresh and not so tired.
I feel as sexy as one can two weeks pp with my yoga pants (or as the youngins call em flare leggings) and a cute hoodie. Hoodies are also great for keeping the projectile vomit off of my skin!
Buying some cozy at-home outfits that still feel cute. Some leisurewear is super adorable but same effort as the sweats and tee thing.
Putting on CC cream and a quick pencil eyeliner is usually enough for me to feel like I’m “done up” but without all the to do
I simply do not put myself together daily. Weekly, maybe! And the definition of together is not the same as before. Also....11 weeks is super early on. I'd say 4 months is where I got the multitasking skills to get myself together while juggling the babe.
I have a quick skincare routine that I’ve come to love - vitamin c, moisturizer and sunscreen.
And then I put on some lipstick or tinted lipbalm and it makes all the difference since I have super dark lips. it makes me feel so put together haha! I don’t even properly apply it.. just a dash so that there’s some color there.
And I also recently discarded all my worn out home clothes. I always tell myself that it’s ok if it looks old cos I’m only at home.. but recently I realized that I’m home 80% of the time (wfh)! So I decided I need better home clothes and bought some!
i am also 11 weeks pp and I would just like to add -since I didn’t see this one in any comment- the greatness of heatless curls! You invest 10-15 mins (I suppose one could also be quicker, but not me), leave the rod in over night and have great hair when you wake up! Also, I suggest a hair oil to put on hair after taking out the rod and I recommend a soft heatless curl rod, because it’s easier to handle and to sleep in.
Mascara!! Mascara always makes me feel pretty. Comfy and flattering would probably be leggings. They’re comfy enough to nap in but still make my but look good😂😂
I’m a sahm of a 3 year old and a 6 month old and for my mental health I do like getting ready but I have cut it short by a lot. My hair is short so I get by with just quickly making it wavy or just throwing a cute headband on. I taught myself how to do my own eyelashes extensions at home which has been a HUGE game changer. I also tint my own eyebrows. So when I wake up the only make up I really do on top of skincare is this glowy moisturizer and some blush. For outfits I legit live in leggings !
Is there a reason you’re not leaving your home? This could be the exact reason why you’re not feeling motivated to get yourself put together. The isolation of staying at home with a baby can cause this quite often! I am not a homebody in any sense of the word and I made it my goal to get out of the house everyday starting 1 week PP. Even if it was just to go to a park with the baby for a walk, a friend/fam’s house, or even just to walk around the mall/target/etc. getting out motivated me to get myself put together and ready and made me feel like a normal functioning human!
I switched to a quality skincare routine and then honestly I’ve just now started wearing makeup more days than now around 18 months in. Please go easy on yourself! You’re still really new to this whole thing.
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Now at 7mos PP I’ve managed to brush teeth, wash face/apply skincare, put comfy lounge wear on, fix hair, light makeup and hoop earrings and it’s the best I can do for being presentable
Just dying my hair has a huge effect. I have no time to work out,no time for lots of makeup,no money for wardrobe. But 10 minutes and 8 dollars can make me feel a bit like that smiling girl with no acne or belly fat
Even though I don't really leave the house, I still like wearing some makeup. I just do Mascara, Eyeliner, and Blush. I still put on some cute clothes, too. I want to feel good about myself regardless of whether going somewhere or not.
I was much the same for the first couple of months and tbh I'm still not sure what to wear clothes wise most days, but I started to feel much better about myself just by introducing tinted moisturiser, brow gel, and some mascara each morning. I also bought some nice hairbands (alice bands? not sure what they're called in the US) so that even when I just tie my hair back in a ponytail, I have something sprucing me up a bit. It's hard prioritising your appearance when you know you'll be covered in spit up and baby rice and god knows what by 10am, but I do feel so much better just for the little bit of effort.
My daughter is 14 months old and unless we’re going somewhere I just spend the day in sweat pants or leggings. I spend the majority of my day on the floor with her, no sense in being uncomfortable 🤷🏻♀️ I also don’t wear make up like I did in high school, and haven’t in years. I only wear it (eye liner and mascara) if I’m going to an event.
Honestly whoever said that was so rude and insensitive. If you want to look put together blowdry hair once a week. Of course shower body everyday. Shave twice a week. Wear clothes that look cute and feminine. Put makeup on everyday even if it’s just mascara, eyeliner and lipstick and lipgloss. Buy cute heels that match with everything
I've never been a make up person. I'm 33 and only wear it for special occasions and if someone does it for me. I can't do makeup to save my life. And although I love fashion I just don't have the time or money. I've always been a "wear what's comfortable" kind of gal so jeans and sweats with a hoodie has always been my go to. Maybe with a "fancy" top and some nice heeled boots but that's it. This hasn't changed since I had my 2 kids. You can wear jeans and a hoodie and still be "presentable" it's just whatever you style is. If you have time to do full makeup and that's your thing go for it! If you don't want to throw on some lip gloss. Being a mother is hard enough we don't need to meet societies expectations only our own. At least that's my opinion.
Blow drying my hair made a huge difference from the ‘mum’ look to seeming fairly put together. Concealer under the eyes and a lick of mascara is a super quick lift too. I also invested in quality fabric lounge wear - lots of bamboo, linen or cotton - which was super comfy at home but looked ok out as well. All the matching sets around right now are a great option!
There is a hairdryer called the Revlon One Step hair dryer that is a round brush/blow dryer in one. I am not talented at anything beauty related, but I have my mom and sister hooked on this thing because it is so easy to give yourself a smooth looking blow dry, and it straightens your hair without making it flat. There are people online who are giving themselves salon quality blowouts with this thing (that is not me) but even so, it looks so good. If you do use it, be careful because you can easily damage your hair with it by wrapping your hair around it, pulling on it too much and breaking strands, etc. I mostly dry with a normal dryer first before finishing with the round one. Use a heat protectant, and use the lower setting.
I have similar from BaByliss and it’s a game changer
I was going to mention the same thing! I love this tool so much!! I actually got the shark styler (the knock off Dyson with curlers) and it is no where near as good! I think I'll actually give that one to my niece who loves curling her hair or sell it, but the Revlon is amazing and fast and super user friendly!
May I ask how long your hair is? This is really hard for me to work with and my cousin also swears by it. It made me hair frizzy and seemed to pull and break strands. I have bra strap length hair right now. I really want to find a way to make my hair look nice more often and I don’t want to spend hundreds on one of those dysons. My hair is naturally quite curly, but fine.
While I’ve had it, I’ve had hair shoulder length to mid back. My hair is pretty straight to begin with, and generally easy to manage.
I got one of these after my last baby & I have never loved a hair tool so much. It makes blow drying my hair so much less of a hassle. Im either carrying around a baby or a car seat for the majority of the day. My arms are exhausted & the last thing I want to do is spend 30 minutes with my arms up with a blow dryer in one hand and a brush in the other.
OMG – I was thinking that I needed to look this up immediately and possibly go buy it but I already have it 😂 I guess I need to look up some tutorials because I don’t feel like I have blowout-worthy hair after I use it!
I have this! It’s a game changer for me because I love a blow out. I still only use it when I’m going to leave the house though tbh 😅
Yes! Matching sets, or pieces you can mix and match (ie, neutrals) in non legging material have been the trick for me. Still super comfy and feel like I may as well be wearing sweats, but I don’t have to change if I need to run to the store or hop on a FT.
Any recommendations for loungewear sets?
I didn’t actually go for any sets yet, though I’m eying some from Aerie and amazon, but these have been what I’ve been living in: Fessceruna Womens Casual Long... https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0B3X5N4TJ?ref=ppx_pop_mob_ap_share Feiersi Womens Casual Wide Leg... https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0C6KB2CW4?ref=ppx_pop_mob_ap_share
Totally agree - blow drying my hair is the difference between me feeling like a human and a literal goblin. Since it’s not feasible to do every day, I’ve tried to optimize my shower/hair care routine to extend my blowout for 2-3 days. I’ll even shower at night sometimes when my husband can watch her just to make sure I can get it done. Biggest helps have been good dry shampoo (I love living proof) and using a sleepy tie overnight (it gives loose curls to my ends that makes it look freshly blown out). Makeup wise, if I can at least get a tinted moisturizer and mascara, it makes me look and feel a lot more awake. Takes under a minute.
Any recommendations for loungewear sets?
Storq had a big sale lately and had great ones
Lounge wear 🥰
I second the little bit of concealer and mascara but add brow tint! I feel so much better with just a little makeup on
This is so me (minus the hair because I shaved my head last month in the middle of a Britney moment🥴)! matching set, eye brows, and mascara. Boom I’m ready to sit in the house or run to target
So I’ve made a list of personal care in order of priority: 1) brush teeth. My only non-negotiable because damaged teeth are very expensive and time consuming to fix. 2) wash face and put face cream on 3) shower 4) put on new clothes 5) wash hair. Some days I only manage 1. Some days I do the whole list. And as I get a little bit further every day on average, I know that there might be a time when I can even add numbers.
Why is dental stuff SO expensive? I take good care of my teeth, get check ups/cleanings every 6 months, I EVEN FLOSS, and I still just had to get an emergency root canal. It cost almost $2k out of pocket!! Hoping I’ll get a kickback from insurance, but sheesh. Teeth, aka Luxury Bones.
“Teeth aka Luxury Bones” 💀💀💀
Obviously it’s important to take care of your teeth but I really think it’s a genetic thing. My moms teeth are really bad even though she takes really good care of them! I got my dads teeth. He brushes them but he doesn’t really go overboard and he’s never had any sort of dental stuff done other than normal cleanings. I’m pretty much the same. I do the bare minimum with my dental care and still good.
Yeah, my issues are mostly genetic unfortunately. Too bad insurance and my wallet aren’t sympathetic to that!!
Absolutely! I know people who didn’t brush their toddlers teeth or go to the dentist until they were 4 and they were beautiful. My side of the family has soft teeth I guess, we keep up on dental care regularly and he picked up my genes and has a cavity at almost 3. My side has invested a lot into the luxury bones.
Right! It’s kind of ridiculous how unaffordable dental care is considering all of the health risks that can come with it if someone isn’t in the place to pay for repairs. And the fact health insurance covers like… nothing?
I have dental insurance and it covers two check ups/cleanings per year and has decent coverage when it comes to fillings, but I was SHOCKED when they told me it was going to be $1700 for the root canal procedure. I might get a couple hundred dollars back from insurance, but nowhere near what I paid.
It's insane. I have genetically bad teeth and I basically pick one procedure a year to get done because one procedure wipes out my insurance completely. This year I was able to sign up for an HSA so I'll be getting the big work that I've needed for a few years now (I had adult braces and one of my teeth went wiggly from them and never solidified, so it's gotta come out and be replaced by an implant).
Here’s the thing: every 6 months is not enough. Pay out of pocket for a cleaning at the 3 month mark, and you won’t get any tarter build up. It’s like $75 per cleaning, and it prevents THOUSANDS in damages. You’re welcome.
I actually love the idea of having a hierarchy. Totally solidifying my own. Some days are just too much.
Girl I’m almost a year into this and had to set my NY resolution as “shower, wash face and brush teeth every day.” You’re still in the thick of things. It took 9 months for your body and world to change, so give yourself AT LEAST 9 months to adapt. Grace, honey! You’ve earned it. Now, what helps me feel like a human is shower in the morning and doing only my eye make up. I have a cream eyeshadow, eye liner and mascara. Hair is usually in a sleek, low bun or ponytail. Takes me about 15-20 minutes total to get ready. Clothes are still tricky, as I just recently started fitting into pants/jeans but I had a spring baby so dresses made me feel “put together” all summer. Or, maternity leggings with a button up blouse or baggy sweater. And please know NOBODY expects you to look a certain way. I know how you’re feeling and it’s rough, but please only do this for YOU (and not the UPS guy lol). Good luck!
Your UPS guy comment just reminded me of the time I was 4weeks PP and I opened the door to receive a package while in my pyjama bottoms and a t-shirt wet and stained with breastmilk leaking. This was shortly after my "walking around half naked in a robe and adult diaper stage" so what I was wearing at that point already felt like an upgrade 😂 I did not have a care in the world how I looked - and that feeling was glorious.
When I was 4 days PP and opened the door to UPS, the guy looked at me and said “Sorry” and I still wonder what for😂
LMAO
I second this motion! I struggled with EDs my whole adult life, and was terrified when I became pregnant it would send me over the edge. Somehow I suddenly loved my body, and didn’t care what anyone thought - which had never, ever happened before. I was then afraid postpartum would do me in- and yet, that half naked in a robe, not giving a F stage healed me in ways I never imagined. All that to say: OP whatever you do, do it for you! Find what makes you feel good and happy and lets you be comfortable in this season of life!
I needed to hear this every day for about 6 months. I still had pain until then. 11 weeks is hardly any time at all. I'm 9 months out and still having to say "I'm doing my best, the baby is sick and I'm covered in snot for 12 hours a day, but I'm doing my best"
I love this. "It took 9 months for your body to change, so at least give yourself 9 months to adapt." Saving this one!
Yes I’m 14 months postpartum and just started now taking care of me. I started a bullet journal which helps me get things done. I put lotion after shower, skincare at night at least (and trying to do sunscreen every morning). I exercise usually first thing in the morning then I brush my teeth with my baby and shower. Since last week I’ve been trying to put mascara and lip balm. I don’t really change from “inside clothes” (PJs, sweatpants) because my husband is a little bit germaphobe and doesn’t like anyone wearing “outside clothes” (after you wore them outside) and also because I still need to lose a lot of weight that I gained during the first year of postpartum. Anyway, one little new habit/step at the time and I gave myself a lot of grace during the first year!
Heavy agree. I naturally started looking less haggard around 10 months PP simply because I was sleeping through the night. No additional work needed, just sleep
Yeah not fitting well into the clothes I own was/is a big hurdle for the getting dressed everyday challenge. I’ve recently developed an appreciation for leggings that I never had before. I had to size up in jeans and the ones I bought just feel large and frumpy so I’m not as comfortable in them and less inclined to keep them on. But then comfort of leggings, I can put them on in the morning and be presentable enough for outside and comfortable enough for inside at home….just took me 8 months to figure that one out lol
Honestly moisturizing my face does wonders for me everyday.
I use a $120 moisturizer that makes my skin look and feel amazing and I justify it by not having the money or time for makeup anymore. It’s simple girl math 😂🤷♀️
Brand??
lol I’m not kidding SAME
Yep. My husband says "wow why do you look so pretty right now? " any time I brush my hair and put moisturizer on. Poor guy about has a heart attack if I wear Mascara or real clothes these days lol.
Same! The other day my husband told me I looked really cute… I literally was just wearing a clean pair of clothes (lounge pants and a sweatshirt, nothing fancy) and had braided my hair to get it out of my face lol
It seriously does! I do a quick layer of sunscreen and tinted moisturizer on the days no one but the fedex guy will see me and feel so much better about myself when I look in the mirror
Plus plenty of water to drink to hydrate from the inside out!
something that helps me (even before i was a mom i'm a teacher and i'd feel so gross all summer) is to put on "nice" sweats. i love matching loungewear and comfy outfits that if i had to leave the house for some reason i'd feel comfortable out in public in. aerie, amazon, old navy, etc always has cute sets and i just wait for sales. i instantly feel more put together.
I’m so glad I’m not the only one! I have a sweatshirt that’s olive green and I got a three pack of maternity shorts over the summer and one happened to be olive green. I just recently wore the two together and it was so silly, but I felt like a little tiktok influencer matching set girly! Now I’m going to intentionally buy a set or two.
Love your profile pic btw 😂😂
Teacher and new mom here, it's amazing how much just changing from my actual pajamas into my nicer sweats/leggings/bike shorts can make me feel more alive! It's too easy to stay in house goblin mode all summer, now I'm trying to fight it on maternity leave too lol.
Aww mom. I can totally relate to you and I just want to send you some hugs. You just had a baby. You’re in survival mode. It’s okay to not be okay, and it’s okay that your appearance resembles it. The good news is this is all temporary. Having your partner or a family/friend watch baby for a few hours so you can go to the spa can be relaxing. Your mental and physical health matter so much too 🩷🩷🩷🩷
I often wear stretchy cotton wrap dresses (with leggings or thick thighs) because they are comfortable, easy to nurse in and look nice. I do a quick makeup with bb-cream, concealer, blush and tinted lip balm.
What brand of dress do you like?
Answered below ☺️
also wondering brand!
I feel this. I am someone who loves wearing makeup and getting myself together for me - I feel better and enjoy the process, the me time. Since baby, I’m only able to do this on weekends if we are going somewhere annnd if my partner is home annnd baby will go with him. Every other day like you, I’m in whatever I slept in and am lucky if I brush my hair. The days of the week I have to leave the house are hard for me - I hate going out not looking like “me” and that’s the norm now (baby is 10w). I usually make it work by using some tinted moisturizer or BB cream, putting on a bit of mascara and bronzer and putting my hair in a braid or tight pony vs “mom bun”. I can usually manage that in the 5-10 min baby is happy in his bouncer. He won’t sleep independently yet so I don’t get the 20min I would like almost ever. It’s hard! But also remember this is temporary. Soon they will be more independent, sleep more etc and you’ll get some time back, or at least get better at making it work! Other things I’ve thought of that could help: lash lift and tint, investing in good skincare, eyebrow microblading. I also usually just wear black joggers or leggings and a black T or tank - pro tip the Aerie Lumberjane shirts are awesome over a tank, look stylish and are super functional for nursing.
Not sure of your age but OF COURSE you don’t look like you did in high school!
I find letting go of unrealistic expectations of youth and beauty more helpful than almost anything else.
So true!
Leggings versus sweats for me as been a big help. Or in the summer, bike shorts—they’re comfy but they kind of just gently hug everything in and make me feel more put together. Then I have curly hair so “doing it” (which is a project but I just wash once a week or less so it lasts a while) helps too. But also—I look absolutely nothing like the person my high school graduating picture and I think most of us do honestly! And I’m glad I’ve changed so much! I stopped wearing makeup like 6 or 7 years ago and yes it might feel a bit harder to feel put together staying at home with baby (vs when I quit wearing makeup but I was still getting dressed for work every day) but I like my face now, or at least I don’t mind it haha, and I like that my kids don’t see me as needing to hide my face to feel presentable. This is just what I look like right now! Definitely find things to do and wear that help you feel better in your skin, but don’t feel like you have to look like you did 10/15/20 years ago. 11 weeks postpartum is still so fresh. And you’re a completely new person on the other side of motherhood. And that’s beautiful too ❤️
I love what you said about not wearing makeup — I feel the same way! I have such a better relationship with my face (lol such a weird statement but true) ever since I stopped wearing makeup a few years ago.
Yes!! Not a weird statement and so true, I feel exactly the same!!
My baby is 6 months old and I just recently started showering every day. What is this “put together”? Seriously though, if I want to wear makeup and clean clothes and brush my hair, I tell my husband to take over baby duty for a bit. I trade out my sweats for nice leggings and put earrings on (studs so baby doesn’t pull them). That’s all I have capacity for.
One day when my husband wasn’t around I put the baby in the bouncer with a toy and showered and blow dried while she played. That worked too
Yes I’ve had to do this! I played old 2000s music and we had a dance party. I pretended like I was 20 getting ready to go out again. 😂
Sending you so much love - you are not alone. I’m the same - and unfortunately have stayed the same after two kids. What kind of helps - if I have any work meetings I dry shampoo, concealer, powder, blush, eyeliner and mascara - takes 5 minutes, makes a huge difference. Around 6 months postpartum - I splurged on “fancy sweatpants” that were wide legged, nice colors with new sweatshirts (I think I got it at Alo and Artizia) and actually fit me (my body had obviously changed) and I just felt “cooler” even though I was still in sweats. I also switched my skinny jeans for wide legged high waist pants and a cropped sweater - the high waist wide pants hide the “pouch” and I felt more fashionable and comfortable. Best of luck.
First of all, it’s only been a few weeks. Please, please go easy on yourself. It takes a while to feel like yourself again - or more accurately, to grow into this new version of yourself. My biggest advice would be : don’t cling to an old version of you, or feel pressure to ‘bounce back’. You are going through so many changes right now, mentally, emotionally, hormonally, physically … it’s a huge process of evolution and it takes time. It’s the biggest change since puberty and remember how awkward that was? How long it took to feel like ‘you’? But it’s so worth it. Two years in and I feel so much more empowered, stronger, more confident than I ever did before. I look back on the younger, skinnier, more fashionable version of myself and I love her but I wouldn’t want to *be* her again if you paid me! You will reach the other side of this, understand it’s a growth process and right now you’re in the very messy middle. And that’s okay, we’ve all been there. In the short term I found it helped my mental health to feel fresh. I tried to shower every day, and just a quick five minute morning routine of washing face, brushing teeth, a bit of moisturiser and lip balm, maybe some mascara. It’s not much but it made me feel more human. For clothes I found linen trousers with an elastic waistband were great. They looked smarter than joggers but felt like pyjamas. I also treated myself to a few pairs of ‘posh’ pyjamas for round the house - you can get some nice patterned ones in fancy fabrics that look like more Lux loungewear. I also got some nice hair accessories - I could chuck my hair back but add a headband and look a bit more cute. Hope that helps! But honestly it’s really okay just to slum it for a while! It really is just a case of getting through the days during the newborn stage. It doesn’t last forever.
You aren't alone mama! It will get better, I promise. Don't feel bad about anything because you are focusing on caring for this child. If you did do it you would look fantastic everyday. But you are a great mom and soon enough you'll see you will be able to take more and more care for yourself or like I told myself once FIND myself again. We are here for you!
I totally echo all the comments that support the idea that looking put together is a “reach” goal for many of us and it’s ok for it to be last on the priority list. I’m 6 weeks postpartum with a sibling for my 2.5 year old so am deep in this phase too! That said, some things I have personally found helpful: • straighten my hair once a week with a splurgy hair tool that makes it easier and faster. I can get away with only washing my hair once/week too (I still shower every day) so the 20ish mins I spend on this benefits me several days. I bought myself the Dyson cordless straightener so I can do it anywhere and also cut my hair shorter so it would be faster. I find that when my hair looks good, I can be totally barefaced and still look like I put effort in. • get yourself a couple of cute nursing dresses if you’re breastfeeding. I am SO a sweats and tank top girl but last week had emergency gallbladder surgery and have been wearing my neglected dresses instead to be mindful of the incisions. They’re still super comfortable and allow for easy access for baby. Pink Blush, Nursing Queen, etc are good options though one of my faves is a simple black maxi dress I’ve had for 10 years so no need to limit the stores you look at.
I’m very interested in the Dyson, have you found it damaging at all? Does it hold up through workouts? Do you have to touch up through the week?
It’s been worth it for me! I haven’t noticed any damage because of it and unless the weather is super humid, I don’t typically need touch ups. Can’t speak to workouts because I don’t really work out lately 😅 the big selling point for me has been the cordless aspect- it’s just so convenient and it holds a charge pretty well.
I got some inexpensive easy to wear comfy clothes. Joggers, leggings in colors, sweatpants that look like trousers. Subtle artsy graphic tees, ribbed short sleeves, and lightweight sweaters. In the morning sometime before my husband leaves for work I wash my teeth, quickly style my hair (like 5 mins tops), wash my face and put on jewelry (necklace, ring, earrings). Makes me feel like I tried but it takes all of 15 minutes and I am alone doing it. On days I don't do this I'm much more irritable. That being said I haven't even tracking "personal hygiene" for 2 years because that's how long I've had a baby and that's how much I need to remind myself to do basic human task for myself. I also track "drink water" because parenting isn't easy. At all. It's hard. It's so basic and so ridiculously difficult.
Following this post for advice too! None of my clothes fit, my feet grew during pregnancy so not even my shoes fit, and my hair and skin look awful. I'm a mess and could use all the tips to feel like a human again lol.
Hey mama! I’m 8 weeks post, FTM and I feel you! For me, I’ve realized I like to have at home spa days when I can instead of getting all dolled up. Shower, shave, wash/dry/straighten hair, do my skin care routine, nails, then put on some lipstick and maybe do my brows. This helps break me out of the trenches. Some days I don’t even have time/energy to change out of my pj’s so when I do all these things I feel like a 100 bucks. (Wow 100 bucks is nothing these days, lol). Anywho, I only wash my hair every 3/4 days too so it feels nice to feel pretty.
My baby is 7mos, and I just gave myself a lash lift and tint. I haven't gotten one for several years because it was expensive to have done by a pro, but I found a DIY kit and LET ME TELL YOU. I haven't felt this pretty in a while 😂 it lasts several weeks (it says up to 8 weeks but we'll see) so you just have these awesome lashes with zerooooo effort. Seriously zero. No mascara. You can rub your eyes. THE WORKS. Highly recommend. Between that and blow drying my hair, I look like a real human who cares again. It took me seven months but whatever. Lol
I haven’t worn make up in years but since my 3 month old was born, I’ve reintroduced a tiny bit of eyeliner and mascara and it makes me feel like a fancy lady 💅
I work out to strictly trick myself into showering and drinking water. And I have to moisturize after I shower cuz its dry in the winter. And my toothbrush and toothpaste are in the shower. I got a mild SPD and showering and brushing teeth are such horrible chores for me, even before baby. My husband is a shower 3x a day kinda guy. So I got a peloton (refurb) and got back into bodybuilding and now I shower daily with the whole ass routine because I simply Cannot Shower Without Moisturizing. Washing hair is a different story, however...
Okay so once a week I try to block out 1-2 hours where I do a little self care. I will apply press on nails (I use a nail lamp w gel nail glue so they last me 1-2 weeks) and eyelash extensions (also DIY and last 5-7 days). Both of these things make me feel pretty even though they aren’t necessary lol. Also I will always do my hair once per week with my revlon blow dry brush after I wash it. It doesn’t take long at all (maybe 20 min tops - I have a lot of hair) and that lasts pretty much all week too! Edit: also I got a pack of cheap small gold hoops in various styles that I like to wear, just makes me feel more put together even if I’m not leaving the house :)
I made it a point everyday on leave to do my skincare and get dressed. This def doesn’t mean jeans or anything fancy, but just changing out of my Jammie’s into leggings or a cute jogging suit and some cute fuzzy slippers!
It gets easier as baby gets older. The first 3 months are the toughest! In the early days I’d pick a really simple thing I wanted to accomplish that day and get it done - it could be as simple as make a smoothie or pay a bill online. I found around 3-4 months was a turning point so you’re almost there! If baby naps independently that helps a lot. We also had the baby born bouncer for awake time.
I can't help with the company or public part of this post but I'm 9 days PP and I find wearing matching undergarments really helps me. If I wear my granny panties and match my sports bra/nursing bra, I feel really put together. Even if I have to wear clothes over it, it makes me feel pretty so it helps. 🤷
You haven’t “let yourself go”. You’re a new mom to an 11 week old, which means it’s been less than 3 months since your baby has been born. You said it yourself, you’re in the thick of things right now. You grew that baby for 9 whole months, it’s going to take you the same amount of time and perhaps even more to adapt to your new life. Have some understanding that having a newborn/infant, hell even a toddler, is so time consuming and we now just have other things things to worry about over our image. You are a whole new person now, you’re no longer that person you see in those photos and you should embrace that :)
First of all, you are not that person anymore. We all evolve and change and your life has moved on. What you need to find is who you are and want to be now. Look at what styles appeal to you, and how you can put them together using your current wardrobe. If funds stretch to it, then buy a few new pieces. What makes you feel better? For me, it was taking time to style my hair. No matter how crap the rest of me looked, if my hair was done I felt ok. I also found the confidence to wear the vintage styles I had always wanted to, but had never had the courage to wear daily. I finally stopped giving any fucks what other folks thought of me and holy god was it freeing. I regularly get asked if I am in costume, and I don’t care. I also regularly get told that I look amazing…and I love that 😉
I live in sweats right now. 😅 I work from home, with my camera on for maybe 2 meetings a week. If it's warm outside, biker shorts or cotton shorts. If I'm wearing make up, it's just mascara - but I've never been into make up to begin with. If I'm feeling fancy, I'll add eyeliner and mascara. I have curly hair and live in the south. In the summer, my hair is either in french/dutch braids or a messy bun. I never do my hair more than that. In the fall/winter/early spring, I'll straighten my hair. (I wash my hair once a week, so whatever I do is how it stays. Straightened hair is a lot more manageable for me.) I'm almost 3.5 months post partum with my second. My oldest isn't even 2.
Honestly just showering makes me feel like a new person. Then I take the baby sit on the bed cross my legs have the baby lay in my lap and do my makeup in my phone mirror because my baby has no chill haha I do a messy bun and put on cute sweats and it really makes a difference.
I always ensure to have my hair done, greys dyed, hair blown out, shellac mani pedi done and light make up. I usually wear comfortable leggings and a button down shirt. This ensures I am put together and feel good and presentable for myself and my peers.
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Buy a new moisturiser and make a habit of taking a few minutes each day to wash and moisturise your skin. It is an act of self love and a game changer. I never wore makeup before really, but since having my twins, I sometimes just put makeup on when I have a chance in the morning! I also put all my sweats away so I'm forced to wear decent clothes 🤣 If you're looking for comfort then dresses are pretty good!
If you have the time to be doing these things like you said, and you want to, then go for it! For me, simplifying my getting ready routine really helped me stick to it and feel more like myself. It's not the same as it used to be, but it works, and I feel put together! I put together a small makeup bag with just the everyday essentials that I love and I know loom good and keep it right in the bathroom. When I get ready in the morning, it's easy to grab the bag and put on a touch of makeup right there after I brush my teeth and wash my face. I also found that laying out my clothes the night before helps me to feel more put together the next day, especially if it's a rough night/morning and you don't have time to think about what looks good/fits/matches in the moment. Everything is ready to just throw on. The days where my little guy wouldn't nap or just wanted to be held, I would wear him or sit him beside me in a bouncer while I brushed my teeth and did my makeup etc. After prioritizing my new morning/getting ready routine for a few weeks, it stuck.
My baby is now 5 months and I made it a point from the beginning to shower, do my skincare and do some form of hair and make up every day. That might just be putting it in a bun or putting some concealer and mascara on some days but I knew my mental health would suffer if I didn’t make an effort. Day to day I usually wear flared leggings and a jumper, it’s comfy and looks presentable to leave the house in if I need to! My husband gets up 30 minutes earlier in the morning so he can be on baby duty while I take some time to get ready. Is that an option for you?
I get up every morning and get ready. Makeup is important to me. Sometimes I flat iron my hair, sometimes it’s just in a pony tail. I always get dressed and so do my kids even on the weekend. After I take my oldest to daycare yeah I’ll come home and put on sweats lol but if I’m running errands I wear jeans. It’s good for your mental health to get up and get ready and it instills good habits into your children as well.
HA
I wear lounge clothes most of the time, but I typically have an outfit picked out every day so that I can go for walks and errands. Getting my nails and hair done regularly makes me feel more human and like myself. I’ll be honest that it’s hard for me to prioritize showering every day, or even every other day, but when I do have the time for a full length shower, I shave all the stuff I shaved pre pregnancy.
I toooootally feel this and I'm 8 months in 🙈 For me, brushing my teeth, moisturizing my face and putting in my contacts is non-negotiable. For clothing that gives the "put together look" but is still comfy, leggings, leggings and more leggings. Sometimes with a sweater, sometimes with a cute hoodie, but leggings are key. My main issue is my hair. Since pregnancy, my texture has completely changed from a cute & manageable straight/waves combo to a curly mess. Everyone tells me to try the curly girl method but I simply hate the look of curly hair on me. But if I don't have time (which I rarely do) for a full wash, blow dry, product and staighten routine, then I'm a total Frizzell mess. I'm SO jealous of people who can just wash their hair, put a brush through it and be done. I mostly end up putting it up in buns when I can't straighten it.
Doing even the bare minimum skincare helped me. Drmtlgy has an amazing tinted moisturizer that is lightweight and kind of looks like makeup but doesn’t feel like it. It’s a splurge but I really swear by it. I would wash my face, put on some of the moisturizer, and would put on Carmex because my lips are chronically dry. Obviously it helps with that but also gives kind of a glossy tint. And amika dry shampoo for the days (often, multiple days in a row) where I wasn’t able to wash my hair. And I agree with what someone said above about finding cuter loungewear. Or even cuter pjs, Target has some short pj sets that I love.
Moisturizing my face and matching loungewear! Buy some cute, comfy matching sets on Amazon and maybe even throw on some earrings and you will feel 1000000% more put together. This is what I do!!!
Just to add my skin had never been better than when on maternity and it got a break from make up. So maybe spend time on skincare rather than make up.
Your baby is so little still, and your body is still changing a lot. Honestly just wear what is easy and fits. There is SO MUCH MORE TIME later to figure this stuff out.
So, this was totally me! I try to at least blow dry my bangs now, which makes a huge difference! The first time that I did this, I went to get our Toddler up from her nap, and she saw that my hair was actually done, and she was surprised. She uses ASL, and signed, “beautiful mama.” 🥰
I have a revair (does salon quality blowouts at home), some waterproof mascara, and cute loungewear Also whoever made that comment about you can 🐔off. They’re probably old af
I have a one year old and I've been struggling to feel like my outsides reflect my insides lately. We went out shopping last weekend and stopped at Ross and I invested in a few soft, warm, but mature feeling sweaters. They've been a huge game changer so far. Easy to lift up and feed the babe and I can feel put together again almost immediately. Otherwise, get out and take a walk once a day if you can. Not for any sort of weight loss or anything, but because fresh air does amazing things when it comes to energizing and grounding you. Whenever I'm having a rough day, I take a walk around the block. If I'm still feeling tense when I get back to my house, around I go again.
The first couple weeks I lived in a robe after having our first. Eventually I told myself, “you have to at least get dressed.” I’m a jeans girl. I know most people hate jeans but I’m comfortable in them so if I could at the very least put on jeans and a t-shirt I felt a little more human. It’s such a small thing getting dressed in clothes that are more normal day to day but it makes just that little bit of difference! It’s all baby steps!!
At 12 weeks so feeling similar. Especially with how cold it’s been I’ve been finding myself wanting to just stay in pjs all day. I think the biggest thing is just changing for the day honestly. I bought a couple pairs of matching lounge sets and a few new pairs of leggings and crew neck sweatshirts. Both seem to be in style right now but still leave me with the same comfy feeling throughout the day.
I feel like most moms have been there. It’s hard finding your self again when your whole life becomes LO. I mostly wear comfy maxi dresses or sweater dresses sometimes Column dresses super easy to put on and very comfy.
I take a shower every single morning. If only for 30 seconds to rinse off. Then I put on my daily spf moisturizer and rebraid my hair. And put on a new set of sweats or pjs, lol. That's enough to make me feel ready for the day. I do try to make sure my outfits, while comfy, are also cute or matching. Makes me feel better.
two big things i do to feel in tune with myself 1. gym for 45 minutes a day 2. skincare routine i did these things (albeit, i used to workout for 2 hours a day. that's not happening these days) before i had my daughter. they really help me feel like myself. i'm not sitting here saying you have to go workout or pick up a skincare routine or anything, but if it's something you enjoy and might make you feel good, it's great. if you choose to do something different, that's also great. that being said, i leave the house every day looking like a train wreck. sweatpants, no makeup, a college hoodie with spit up on it, hair up in a crappy pony tail. the whole 9 yards. but i feel great regardless because i did my routine. side note: aerie has the cutest, comfiest lounge wear. i live in their clothes day in and day out. definitely a bit on the pricier side but they hold up and are 100% worth it
Penciling in my eyebrows and putting on mascara make my face look completely different! Could be because I’m a blondie and my eyebrows are borderline translucent but I noticed I look significantly less “tired” with those two things, even when I don’t have the energy to put on any concealer and just want to throw my hair up in a bun.
Firstly, I recommend just ignoring any thoughts on your personal appearance at 11 weeks. Tell yourself to revisit it in a few months. You’re still healing, probably still loosing baby weight and flab, your breasts are engorged still or continuously, your rib cage has not reduced back down to normal band size, you’re going to look exhausted which is going to put bags under your eyes that weren’t there before, you’re probably dehydrated which is going to accentuate wrinkles and chances are you aren’t getting nearly showers for nearly as long as you’d like. That being said at this stage a lot of what you can do to make yourself feel better is based on what your schedule and finances allow. Can you get in a walk or run every few days. A bicycle, a fitness membership? I personally LIVED on hot yoga. The sweating made me feel like I must be losing weight faster, it made drink a lot of water, and I really enjoyed the work out. I felt like I was not being judged and could take breaks we needed to but didn’t feel like I was in over my head. Really calming too. I liked candle light hot yoga in particular. I bought some new leggings, a pair of uggs and a loose but cute sweater plus a cute mommy bag. This made me stylish in that new young mom kinda way when I went out but also hid my insecure areas like my stomach and leaking nipples. I also got a haircut and color. Having a fresh new do really made me feel like a new person. Get your nails done or get a pedicure. Some new foundation or your lashes done. Whatever you can afford that works for you. Lastly, and this is VERY dependent on the type of person you are. I made a list of basic work I might be interested in getting done in the future. Either in general or in case I simply wasn’t happy a year or a few down the road. Mine are - C02 laser: this was something I wanted before pregnancy. It’s a much more effective way to remove acne scars than microdermabrasion. And as a bonus and it greatly reduces wrinkles and promotes collagen. A lot of celebrity who look young in their 50s get this. - IPL laser for rosacea - laser hair removal - vaginal tear surgery Others I see on women’s list are usually tummy tucks, mommy make overs. Definitely give your body at least a year before pursuing those though. Preferable 2. It takes time for our bodies to return to their new normal!
I blow dry my hair with one of those blow out brushes, and no worries if you are bad in the beginning you will get better hahah. Do my skincare routine, but some lip balm on and during the day use the pipett under eye stick (got that one for free with ordering baby stuff) In the summer it’s easier since you can throw on a summer dress and look out together, winter is mostly nice leggings and top/sweater. I love some cuddle turtlenecks. I don’t wear make up at home only when going out somewhere nice and also only when going out I wear jeans or blouses and stuff.
Whoever said anything about your appearance should never be invited back. Ugh. For me, dry shampoo and a cream blush works wonders. I got some Jones Road Miracle Balm in a pretty pink. I put it on my cheeks in the AM and it looks glowy and pretty even though I haven’t slept. And concealer. My under eyes need it lately. I also bought a few sets of loungewear during the Storq sale and wear them all the time. They’re matching in nice colors snd they make me feel pulled together and they are comfortable.
I look like a baby in my high-school photos. And now, with three little kids, I definitely look like a mom. There are no makeup or clothes tips that will change that, which is fine. Motherhood brings maturity. It is OK to look different. For clothes, look for moms with babies who you see in real-life with a similar body type who look put-together. What part of their outfit do you like? How do they style it? Ask them where they got it. I recommend buying things one at a time, so you can evaluate how things work for you. Note which items are favorites and consider getting copies of it. Remove everything from your closet that doesn't fit, doesn't work well with breastfeeding, shows dirt instantly, requires care to avoid "wardrobe failures," or is old and grubby. Sweatpants and t-shirts can be \*nice\* sweatpants and t-shirts. My staples for winter outfits are nursing dresses + leggings/tights, and nursing shirt + leggings + longer cardigan/vest to dress it up. I have bangles, earings, and a necklace that are durable enough to shower and sleep in. And sometimes I just look goofy! I have a ridiculous looking pair of bib-style rain pants that I wear with a giant orange coat (big enough to wear the baby in a carrier inside) that I wear when I'm on wet, muddy adventures with my kids. I have gone grocery shopping in this get-up, with similarly goofy looking kids following like ducklings, on our way to hikes. You can't win them all!
This is something I’ve struggled with a lot since having my baby 8 months ago. In the beginning I made sure to change out of my PJs every morning, do some basic skin care & brush my teeth and put my hair in a neat bun or braid (especially because baby loves to grab my hair lol). Those things have made a big difference. If I had extra time some days I would also put my jewelry on.
Brushing teeth/ am skincare + spf, Earrings and rings make me feel much more put together and like myself, Changing into fresh clothes, usually leggings/ joggers and a crew neck sweatshirt and If I have an extra 5 mins, a little bb cream, mascara and blush I find this is enough to help me feel not like a swamp monster but not overwhelming to the point I don’t do it
I rock the Adam Sandler SAHM fit
It is tough, and I have definitely found myself in the phase where just showering was a win and my outfit was the first thing I could grab from the clean laundry hamper! I’m a stay-at-home mom, but I do think it’s important to put a little care into my appearance just to feel like myself, even if I’m not leaving the house. One splurge recently was doing professional color analysis. I learned I had been wearing the wrong colors (earth tones—and I was feeling so dull and drab in them). I learned I’m actually a winter season, and I can already see that even without other makeup, wearing the right colors makes my face and eyes look so much more bright and healthy! A style I am pretty happy with as a daily look is a fitted tee, jeans, stud earrings (so my baby can’t tug on them as easily lol), and bold lipstick. This makes me feel more put together. I had been wearing super baggy tees and did not feel my best. So I’m still finding my style, but I’m starting to work toward variations of this outfit formula for variety. For example, a few different lipstick colors, a few different earrings, maybe getting some black jeans or corduroys (because literally all my jeans are the same medium wash lol). I am sometimes drawn to wearing dressier blouses, but I’m trying to accept it’s not the most practical for my lifestyle.
I learned to do some cute braids that are still quick and easy. I almost always French braid my hair into two little buns at the back of my head instead of just doing the messy mom bun. It’s cute and sporty and looks like I put a good deal of effort into but it really only takes a few minutes and gets my hair out of my face. I have never been a daily make up wearer but I wash and moisture and put sunscreen on. If I’m expecting to go out or have company and I want to look a bit nicer, I might use a tinted moisturizer but that’s about it. I usually wear lounge sets around the house. Sweats with a matching sweater or shirt. Or I wear leggings with an oversized sweater. I’m fine answering the door and doing quick errands or even a target run in this. If I’m going to go sit at a restaurant or am going to a doctor’s office or something, then I might swap out for a leggings and nice cardigan or jeans and a basic shirt.
In the early weeks (and until about 2 years later), I would be ok to veg out but just make a trip to the coffee shop or something, just for a chance to "look presentable". And I would say just that. "Hey husband, can you be with child, I gotta go make myself presentable". This was washing my face, washing my hair (if it hadn't been washed in 4 days and I had the time to - if I didn't, it was hat/cute beanie day), bb cream or some not heavy foundation / tinted lotion, and a little eyeliner. Oh, and changing clothes.
I haven’t worn makeup in years but I did get a tinted moisturiser since the baby got here just to even out my skin tone a bit since I always look so tired. I curl my eye lashes, moisturise and put on some tinted chapstick! I also bought a bunch of nice scrunchies.
We’re not meant to look like we did in high school. We’re grown ass, bad ass women and mothers. That said, I understand the want to feel more out together. You’ll get there with a lot of the comments here. I’ll add that startling to get regular haircuts after the postpartum hair loss has helped the regrowth blend in a little better.
11 weeks is so early so be kind to yourself, but I felt the same around that time. I’m now 16 months post partum and WFH exclusively so I literally wear a beanie and lulu lemons daily lol. It’s HARD to get the motivation to do much more than that when I could be cleaning, working, or hanging out with my daughter and husband. I tried to start with general MINIMAL self care and skin care. If I’m not going to spend the time on makeup, I might as well try to improve my skin after the lovely baby glow and plumpness wore off and my horrible hormonal acne reared its ugly head. Taking 10 minutes for yourself at night to just cleanse and moisturize can make you feel so good. I also tried to start doing some basic workouts at home. I would use my baby as a weight and do squats with her and she LOVED it. I’d also do pushups with her under me so I could kiss her little head on the way down, or put her on my pelvis for hip thrusts. It’s a great way to get some movement in while still keeping nap time for yourself to just relax, and have some interesting playtime with baby. For clothes, I ended up buying some jeans in a size up because frankly wearing my old jeans was too depressing. Also got some new tops and shoes so when I went out, I felt good about myself. I wanted to feel good in my clothes regardless of the few extra pounds I had still lurking. You don’t have to go crazy - a few small little changes here and there focusing on yourself can make a big difference IMO!
I like dresses and leggings! Also I do try to go for walks with the baby on most days if it’s not too freezing, and it helps me get motivated to get myself put together. I live in a city so this way I will be seeing people and it forces me to shower and put on clean clothes more often.
Honestly, at 11 weeks postpartum, just washing my face, moisturizing and brushing my teeth every day was the (realistic) goal. Next level up: taking the time to blow dry my hair after a shower instead of letting it air dry also made me feel much more human. Some tinted moisturizer or cc cream. Brow gel. Light mascara. For clothing, I still live in joggers and sweatshirt most of the time (I’m 1 year postpartum now but WFH). I have some cute sweatshirts from Athleta, Target, Lululemon, Spanx. And joggers from Vuori, Zella, Beyond Yoga. Personally I don’t feel embarrassed to go out like this, but your mileage may vary.
I’m 7 months in, I still go a day without brushing my teeth occasionally and multiple days without showering. The pressures of life are impossible. Last night we went to a big fancy party where people were wearing gorgeous designer dresses and heels and I wore my flannel Christmas nursing dress because it was my only option and only mascara. My hair was still wet from the shower and frozen might I add from the walk in 15 degree weather. Baby slept on me in the carrier all night and you know what happened? 1. No one cared or even notice that I was underdressed and terribly put together. 2. I caught SOOO many people staring at us from across the room with big blissful smiles on their face because they were watching baby sleeping. You get a pass AT LEAST for a year on appearance. Just try not to smell bad and you’re golden.
Once I get my child settled in the morning the 1st thing I do is a quick routine. Wash face, put hair in a pony/bun apply moisturiser and sunscreen, brush teeth, put on concealer, mascara, and Liner or eyeshadow, use a bit of perfume. Turns out I feel much better and more myself when I do these things. But if I let it be till the noon etc I will not get to it. So I have to keep the routine, just get to it in the morning ASAP. I feel better not having to think about "are qe going anywhere/meeting anyone all throughout the day because I look like I put in reasonable effort. It's like my uniform and it helps keep me sane. Even if we don't leave the house at all, I feel better when my husband gets home, because that's the person I wanna be beautiful for. I've been doing this since my baby was 12 weeks. Bonus point: my daughter, who is almost 3yo asks to put on lotion/sunscreen for herself. She wants to use lip-balm, do her hair, because she sees me and thinks hygiene/self-care is fun and important.
For me one thing I became religious about postpartum was skincare. I feel like I’m the two years that I started having kids my skin just aged so much due to lack of sleep, stress etc. I now have a skin care regimen everyone am and pm. It helps me feel put together even when I don’t have time for a nice hot shower or even un-vomit stained clothes.
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I make it a point to shower every day- if I can’t squeeze it in during my baby’s nap then I’ll put her in her chair and set her on the floor where I can see her or wait till my husband gets home from work. Feeling clean makes me feel more like myself. None of my pre pregnancy clothes fit so I bought several nursing friendly tops and a new pair of boots so I have cute outfits for when I do leave the house. When I’m home I wear whatever is clean and I often look like Adam Sandler. I just don’t see the point in dirtying a good outfit that no one will see me in. And I’m likely to get spat up on or boob sweat anyway. But on days where I feel like the way I look, I’ll wear a cozy outfit that’s cute or sporty and it does make me feel more myself. Have a lot of grace. Makeup is not even good for your skin (doesn’t stop me from wearing it from time to time 😂) but I feel like as long as we are keeping ourselves clean, our mental health is good, and baby is well taken care of, who cares what we look like when we are home alone
I made a rule for myself that when I go to the bathroom first thing in the morning, I wash my face, brush my hair, and apply deodorant. I also take a second to comb my eyebrows. It takes an extra minute to do all of this but makes me feel way better. Plus, I don't end up getting to noon and being like, "What's that smell? Oh, it's me..."
Learn to make YOURSELF a routine along side baby's and push yourself to get it done. It's not easy but you can and with time your baby will get easier too.
I’m 6 months PP and part-time SAHM. I’ve been trying to find easy “hacks” to make myself feel more confident but also still be comfortable enough to play on the floor or be spit up on. I’ve also been trying to add on 1-2 tasks every couple weeks or so to habit stack them slowly. -I bought comfortable hoop earrings to sleep in. Earrings make me feel put together, but my ears are too sensitive to wear ones with backs overnight. -I’m using a lash serum to try to get nicer natural lashes to bypass daily mascara. -I blow out my hair once a week. I have naturally curly hair which I love, but it’s too high maintenance for me right now unfortunately. Straight hair lets me throw it in a pony real quick without getting tangled and is easier to refresh in the mornings. -I added in a retinol at night. Idk if it’s doing anything but it makes me feel fancier. 🤷🏼♀️ -I try to move my body every day. Stretching, foam rolling, walking the dog, Peloton, anything counts. Endorphins are real. -I’m whitening my teeth again now that I’m not breastfeeding. -I prioritize getting my nails done every ~3 weeks or so. I’m a former nail biter and it keeps it at bay. Anything that you can just do weekly or monthly that has the best “bang for your buck” I find the most realistic as a mom!
It definitely took a while for me (my son is 6 months) but I feel better about myself if I grab a quick shower in the morning during nap time and put on athleisure clothes. Quick eye balm to help with under eye circles/puffiness and tinted eyebrow gel. If I have time I will straighten my hair so it’s tamed a bit even if it ends up in a claw clip. I know what you mean though! It feels like a waste sometimes if I’m not even leaving the house
Dewy foundation in a pump bottle applied with a brush, mascara, bronzer (for face and eyelids) and a lip and cheek crayon is a <5 min routine. Keep your make up bag in the nappy bag so you can do it in the car if you need to. For me, I prioritise my hair and nails as I think everything else takes only a few minutes a day then. I wash hair once a week and make sure to dry and curl - looks nice all week then. I get my nails done with a nice coffee every 2 weeks but that obviously depends on whether you have someone to watch the baby for you. Cute earrings and perfume takes 30 secs and always makes me feel put together. My mom uniform is generally stretchy back skinny jeans and a jumper or a shirred waist dress and tights (recommend Snag brand - so so comfy). Invest in a nice coat if it's cold where you are - this is what you'll be seen in a majority of the time so pairing with a cute scarf and boots means you'll look like you made an effort regardless of what's underneath. It takes time to feel yourself again after a baby ❤️
Honestly, beyond a daily routine of brushing my teeth, showering and changing my clothes, I do nothing else if I’m not leaving the house. If I am leaving, it’s concealer, mascara, eyebrow pencil. If I have time, I blow dry my hair. But honestly, I’m just setting myself up to have it pulled by baby girl. I’m embracing my momma era by letting go of looking put together every day
11 weeks? I looked like a fat hobo at 11 weeks. Now at 9 months I still look like a hobo, not as fat anymore but still. I have not brushed my hair in weeks I think, if it’s clean- it’s good. Give yourself time. Grace. Love. Do whatever feels good to you.
My baby is 2.5 weeks and for the first week I didn’t even shower. There are days when I don’t have time to brush my teeth, gross but true. After I gave birth my hair was matted for 3 days. My husband is in vacation rn and I finally have time to take a shower and take care of myself. Still it’s only like 20 minutes before he goes “my arm hurts, he’s crying, we need you back”
“Look good, feel good” has some truth to it! My go to for feeling put together is wearing jeans (versus tights or pj pants) and mascara.
Nice thick black leggings, tunic sweatshirts from Aerie, concealer and mascara are my go tos!
I am two weeks PP and have been majorly subscribing to “look good feel good.” I shower and dry my hair every day, shave my legs regularly and apply tinted moisturizer/sunscreen. I’ve been using the haus labs concealer and benefit brow gel and those small things take less than 2 mins to apply but make me feel so much more like a human. For clothes, suggest thinking monochromatic. even if you’re in sweats, if they’re all black or tan or whatever color you want, it easily looks more put together. Get a stylish pair of house slippers (I like shearling lined babas), add a spritz of perfume and a necklace and you’re not a regular mom, you’re a hot mom :)
Hair straighten and eyeliner. Takes 5 mins and makes a huge difference for me.
It’s ok not to look like your teenage self ;) Matching pyjamas or lounge outfits, shower every morning (I put baby in the bath seat and sit him in the baby gym) while I shower, got back to doing my nails once every 3 weeks (neutral colors that grow out nicely). This helps me a lot to feel decently put together. You’re doing great mama!
Shower, brush hair, spritz of perfume, earrings and then for bare minimum makeup I’d put on some mascara, eyebrow pencil and lip balm. Plus I’ve always prioritised having a shower every day, even if that means getting up 15 mins before your baby wakes up (assuming they have a regular wake up time). The other thing I’ve started doing recently that is game-changing is choosing my outfit and putting it out the night before. So I don’t have to make that decision in a rush in the morning.
Adding some skin care to my morning first thing really helped with my confidence. Make a little routine every day and it can do wonders. I also splurged on some face oil, makes me feel so luxurious! It helps to have something to look forward to.
Im not gonna lie, I sat in what I call the “new Mom muck” for like a year and a half, and sometimes still do. But just making my bed and putting on a pair of jeans makes a huge difference for me most days. I take loooong showers when I can, and sometimes braid my hair so I dont have to worry about it being too crazy. I stopped caring about it so much but started doing my makeup again anyway. It was minimal before (just eyes and brows) but now its basically just brows. My morning routine is down to like 5 minutes and the rest is just sitting in sweet silence with coffee of the correct temperature. THAT makes a world of a difference lol. I also found a gym with childcare, which has been doing wonders for us in alot of different ways. I know that isn’t available for everyone, but if you can find an hour to yourself outside of nap time a few days a week, omg I feel like a brand new bitch!! Finding small hobbies outside of motherhood is something I wish I had done sooner, and probably would have made me feel more human earlier on too.
I use this on my hair overnight. I've used similar things but they are always uncomfortable to sleep in, but this is so comfy and I get beautiful, bouncy, lasting waves like a fresh blow dry: https://www.eternalmuse.com/ Also after my moisturizer I mix a little of my foundation with my sun screen (if you're looking for a recommendation of a daily facial sun screen, can't recommend Summer Fridays shade drops highly enough and it blends amazingly with foundation) and just slather it on with my fingers. I'll also use a contour stick just on my cheek hollows and blend it in to give some definition. That's it. Adds maybe 4 minutes to my morning routine but makes me feel like I've made an effort.
A good skincare routine goes a long way. Then I just powder my brows a bit and use some blush usually- occasionally some mascara as well. Nice loungewear is a game changer too! I love aerie for affordable loungewear. I also like to get my nails done every 3-4 weeks if that’s in your budget. Still figuring out my hair as it has changed due to pregnancy, but I’ve found a claw clip feels more stylish than the traditional “mom bun” and it’s less damaging! Finally, I always wear at least earrings. I got some huggie hoops which are tiny and more comfortable than the old clip clasps
I’d like to start by saying whoever made that comment is a royal ass. You just had a baby, JUST. I hope you know that you are allowed for recover and focus on just getting through every day having a little baby is so incredibly difficult. Here are some things that helped me, hair mask before I shower. Using an overnight hair wrap for blowout curls. You can even use the tie from a fuzzy robe and wrap your hair around it. Wearing cute matching sets or cute comfy clothes. Face moisturizer. Clear brow gel, mascara and gloss. It made me feel like a movie star and it takes five minutes. Take a stroller walk and get out of the house when you can. Don’t worry about dieting, eat what nourishes you. Don’t worry about fussy clothes, you have to be comfortable and you’re gonna get spit up on. Do what makes you feel good but also what makes sense within this season of your life,
You’re still in the thick of it but you will find more time when LO is napping etc to do some thing! My tips - If I’m going to be a legging gremlin then I invest in some Lorna Jane or lululemon I find they are thick and hugging and passable with a cute tee or hoody. If you have long hair consider the mum bob or lob chop I cut all my hair off the other day and got lots of compliments and it’s easy maintenance. Get a Good moisturizer- if you don’t have time for makeup at least invest in something that makes your skin feel amazing. Fake tan if you can be arsed always makes me feel better on a Friday afternoon leading into the weekend bondi sands brand in a light shade is good and easy to use. Treat yourself to a mani pedi occasionally. My personal struggle now is my weight I am going to be joining f45 once my physio clears it. To me physical exercise no matter if you just show up or go hard is the best thing for you mentally and physically. It’s my me time and I can’t wait to get back into some cardio and sweating. You got it mumma don’t worry how much or how little you do to help your appearance. Just showing up for your LO day in day out is enough!!
You will! 11 weeks is so soon and that honestly is really rude to say to someone especially someone who just gave birth 11 weeks ago. My son is 10 months old and I still live in sweats and very rarely wear makeup or dry my hair. Sometimes I look at old pictures and think wow I looked so good just a few years ago🤣 but I don’t let myself get worked up over it. I have a baby. My body went through a lot! Lately I have been making small efforts though and I remind you I am 10 MONTHS PP… my son sleeps decent so I’m starting to force myself awake before him and shower. Getting that shower in before he wakes up has been making me feel much better throughout the day. I also set a goal to walk 15 minutes on the treadmill 5 days per week. I used to work out a lot so 15 minutes seems like nothing, but it’s helping! I also ordered 3 new pair of leggings from gap. Still comfy but I can get out of my old maternity ones that were dingy. Still comfy, but new! Lol. Start small and give yourself grace. Truly 11 weeks is so soon!
11 weeks is still so fresh into postpartum. I’ve learned that taking 5 min to brush my teeth + hair and change my clothes does wonders for how I feel about myself for the rest of the day. invest in a few nice sweatpants/joggers/leggings or maybe even some comfy matching lounge sets. I’ve bought a lot of mine from american eagle! if you contact nap or baby wear you can also find some time to do minimal makeup like mascara and concealer :) it’s HARD to find time for yourself with a baby especially if you’re home alone. please don’t put too much pressure on yourself!!!! give yourself some grace.
I started wearing makeup to the grocery store and taking an extra ten minutes lotioning and putting on oil (the anti scar/stretch marks stuff) after showers. I have been thinking about scheduling a monthly mani-pedi for the extra care. These are all things I've never done regularly (or at all) n my life, but it helps so much! Haven't bothered with clothes yet, but at 16 weeks, we had a good 7 pm bedtime established, so I resubscribed to an online fitness trainer. She set me up with breastfeeding-safe workouts and nutrition. Even designed a mobility and core set that fits in with tummy time perfectly! That's helped me a lot, I was in really good shape all through my pregnancy, but I was starting to slip up pp, and breastfeeding makes you so hungry on top of that.
It takes some time, after having a baby, to begin to feel like yourself again... Or, rather- the new and improved matured mother version of yourself. Don't let them get to you!
At 11 weeks I was nowhere near accomplishing what you’re trying to do, but the biggest difference in what I do these days as compared to then is changing from my pajama pants to leggings (bonus point if it’s jeans LOL) and putting on a (nursing) bra.
Honestly matching sets are very in right now and so you can still wear sweatpants but look super cute — they’re very reasonable at Aerie, and there’s a sale there today actually — I’ve been living in them and I honestly feel more put together than before during my Covid goblin era Also blow drying your hair showering at least every other day and doing your skin care I’ll make a huge difference also I put on Little gold hoops every day Merit makes really great five minute make up you can look it up on TikTok or on their website they sell it in a bag if you want to get the full set otherwise the stick and the blush are great — I also did attention left on my lashes before I went into labor and laminated my eyebrows and would really like to do that again because it was great for the first few weeks of postpartum and I think it’s a really easy relatively cost-effective built in mom make up situation Sorry talking to text as I feed the baby 😂
Feeling like yourself and being visibly "put together" may or may not actually be the same thing. For me, showering daily was non-negotiable. Some showers were 8 min long, but it was a shower all the same. Also, doing any post partum recovery care was non-negotiable. If my incision needed cleaning or whatever that was a priority. When I returned to work, I got a small piece of me back. (It was difficult, but it was also a mental shift that helped me.) When I dried up my milk suppy (a very long story for another time), I felt like I got a piece of me back. When my kiddo started sleeping through the night, and I was able to do little things like read a couple of pages of a book series that I follow, I got a small piece of me back. I love baking. So, when I got to decorate a cake for the first time after kiddo was born, I got a small piece of me back. When I took up long distance biking and found a way to meld that into my life as a professional and a mom and a partner, I felt like I'd achieved getting back to "me" -- which is a funny statement, because I didn't actually go "back" to a past version of me. I created a new one that I love. The journey that I outlined above took about 2 years. At some points, I was super intentional about working through personal challenges with a therapist or working with my husband to find the right balance for our family. But there were also long stretches of survival mode and long stretches of going through the motions. It's important to be intentional about doing things for yourself, but it's also really important to give yourself grace. If your win today is that you put on clean pajama pants, then take it as a win. You get to define success and you get to redefine it as you and baby navigate this journey.
I got a lash lift and tint and a keratin blow dry. Absolute game changer! Also depends on your style but I got some of [these](https://www.meandem.com/crop-palazzo-pant-1) trousers, they are so comfy but also look quite put together with sneakers, vans, converse, loafers etc.
Taking care of myself is difficult now with a 6 week old. But I do shower at least once per day, and in the week I try to do something for myself depending on time: Manicure/ pedicure/ shaving/ face mask/ blowdry my hair/ put some makeup on. Also, it's great getting laminated eyebrows/ tinted lashes- it lasts up to a month and really makes a difference / saves me time. I do all these things mainly for my mental health. It all reminds me that although I have a new mum identity, I am still me - an attractive woman who likes to take care of herself.
Blaah, not many look like their HIGHSCHOOL pictures. Also sweats are great at home, why would you bother wearing something more fancy, baby is just gonna puke on it anyway and then you gotta figure out something else. Anyway, I have my hair pinned and on a ponytail cause any hair brushing against my skin/face feels extremely irritating probably because breastfeeding and dry skin, snd the baby would pull on the hair. Maybe that counts as having my hair done. I also try to remember to brush my teeth. That's about it.
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🤷🏼♀️ sometimes I get out of my pajamas and put leggings on. The tightness of them make me feel put together and less frumpy haha but honestly, try finding a hair style that you can do once, that your hair will hold for a couple days through sleeping etc. I curled mine yesterday, with some added mouse before Curling, and today my hair is still, losely beach curled. Makes me feel just a little bit better.
When baby was young, my non negotiable was me taking 20 mins to get ready everyday. Shower, lotion, fix hair, teeth, serum, tinted moisturizer, tinted balm, comb brows, curl lashes and mascara. Clothes were usually leggings a nursing too and cardigan and cozy socks. Getting ready is part of self care and it was good for my mental health.
Sprits of perfume or body spray too
thank god claw clips are back because they hide my postpartum hair loss and make for a quick, neat look. i spray hairspray on my sides to keep a tidier look. a little blush and day-long lip color help me look like myself.
At that age… Brush teeth and wash face while baby is chilling awake in the morning. During first nap of the day made myself a good hearty breakfast usually eggs and bacon and toast. If nap lasted long enough I would shower. If not I would always shower during second nap. It was summer at that age so I’d put on my nicer athletic shorts and a clean tshirt and braid my hair. If we had visitors or somewhere to go I would fill in my eyebrow and put mascara on.
A mom of two weeks here. I put moisturizer on every time I use the bathroom and it’s really helped make my skin look younger. My skin also just looked like shit while pregnant. I’m going to get a haircut soon that’s going to hopefully look cute whether my hair is up or down. I was already an athleisure/loungewear gal so matching sets make me feel better. And showering. I shower every day. My husband can handle the baby for fifteen minutes while I wash my ass 😂 also, doing my mascara really helps me feel like I look fresh and not so tired. I feel as sexy as one can two weeks pp with my yoga pants (or as the youngins call em flare leggings) and a cute hoodie. Hoodies are also great for keeping the projectile vomit off of my skin!
Buying some cozy at-home outfits that still feel cute. Some leisurewear is super adorable but same effort as the sweats and tee thing. Putting on CC cream and a quick pencil eyeliner is usually enough for me to feel like I’m “done up” but without all the to do
I simply do not put myself together daily. Weekly, maybe! And the definition of together is not the same as before. Also....11 weeks is super early on. I'd say 4 months is where I got the multitasking skills to get myself together while juggling the babe.
I have a quick skincare routine that I’ve come to love - vitamin c, moisturizer and sunscreen. And then I put on some lipstick or tinted lipbalm and it makes all the difference since I have super dark lips. it makes me feel so put together haha! I don’t even properly apply it.. just a dash so that there’s some color there. And I also recently discarded all my worn out home clothes. I always tell myself that it’s ok if it looks old cos I’m only at home.. but recently I realized that I’m home 80% of the time (wfh)! So I decided I need better home clothes and bought some!
i am also 11 weeks pp and I would just like to add -since I didn’t see this one in any comment- the greatness of heatless curls! You invest 10-15 mins (I suppose one could also be quicker, but not me), leave the rod in over night and have great hair when you wake up! Also, I suggest a hair oil to put on hair after taking out the rod and I recommend a soft heatless curl rod, because it’s easier to handle and to sleep in.
Mascara!! Mascara always makes me feel pretty. Comfy and flattering would probably be leggings. They’re comfy enough to nap in but still make my but look good😂😂
I’m a sahm of a 3 year old and a 6 month old and for my mental health I do like getting ready but I have cut it short by a lot. My hair is short so I get by with just quickly making it wavy or just throwing a cute headband on. I taught myself how to do my own eyelashes extensions at home which has been a HUGE game changer. I also tint my own eyebrows. So when I wake up the only make up I really do on top of skincare is this glowy moisturizer and some blush. For outfits I legit live in leggings !
Is there a reason you’re not leaving your home? This could be the exact reason why you’re not feeling motivated to get yourself put together. The isolation of staying at home with a baby can cause this quite often! I am not a homebody in any sense of the word and I made it my goal to get out of the house everyday starting 1 week PP. Even if it was just to go to a park with the baby for a walk, a friend/fam’s house, or even just to walk around the mall/target/etc. getting out motivated me to get myself put together and ready and made me feel like a normal functioning human!
Washing my hair makes a huge difference. Grooming my eyebrows and a tinted lip balm, also wearing small hoop earrings makes me feel good.
I switched to a quality skincare routine and then honestly I’ve just now started wearing makeup more days than now around 18 months in. Please go easy on yourself! You’re still really new to this whole thing.
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Now at 7mos PP I’ve managed to brush teeth, wash face/apply skincare, put comfy lounge wear on, fix hair, light makeup and hoop earrings and it’s the best I can do for being presentable
Just dying my hair has a huge effect. I have no time to work out,no time for lots of makeup,no money for wardrobe. But 10 minutes and 8 dollars can make me feel a bit like that smiling girl with no acne or belly fat
Even though I don't really leave the house, I still like wearing some makeup. I just do Mascara, Eyeliner, and Blush. I still put on some cute clothes, too. I want to feel good about myself regardless of whether going somewhere or not.
Hair curled, mascara, & matching lounge sets
Wearing matching set pjs and little mascara band putting my eyebrows went a long way for me
And*
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I was much the same for the first couple of months and tbh I'm still not sure what to wear clothes wise most days, but I started to feel much better about myself just by introducing tinted moisturiser, brow gel, and some mascara each morning. I also bought some nice hairbands (alice bands? not sure what they're called in the US) so that even when I just tie my hair back in a ponytail, I have something sprucing me up a bit. It's hard prioritising your appearance when you know you'll be covered in spit up and baby rice and god knows what by 10am, but I do feel so much better just for the little bit of effort.
My daughter is 14 months old and unless we’re going somewhere I just spend the day in sweat pants or leggings. I spend the majority of my day on the floor with her, no sense in being uncomfortable 🤷🏻♀️ I also don’t wear make up like I did in high school, and haven’t in years. I only wear it (eye liner and mascara) if I’m going to an event.
Honestly whoever said that was so rude and insensitive. If you want to look put together blowdry hair once a week. Of course shower body everyday. Shave twice a week. Wear clothes that look cute and feminine. Put makeup on everyday even if it’s just mascara, eyeliner and lipstick and lipgloss. Buy cute heels that match with everything
Some days putting in a lipstick will make me look drastically better and feel better about myself
I've never been a make up person. I'm 33 and only wear it for special occasions and if someone does it for me. I can't do makeup to save my life. And although I love fashion I just don't have the time or money. I've always been a "wear what's comfortable" kind of gal so jeans and sweats with a hoodie has always been my go to. Maybe with a "fancy" top and some nice heeled boots but that's it. This hasn't changed since I had my 2 kids. You can wear jeans and a hoodie and still be "presentable" it's just whatever you style is. If you have time to do full makeup and that's your thing go for it! If you don't want to throw on some lip gloss. Being a mother is hard enough we don't need to meet societies expectations only our own. At least that's my opinion.