Time For A Style Reset? How To Feel Like Yourself Again After Baby
It’s completely understandable that after having a baby, personal style goes out the window a bit. Between the cluster feeds and contact naps, the milk vomits and snatches of sleep, prioritising how we look drops to the bottom of our to-do list, even when it used to be something we really enjoyed before becoming a parent.
It can mean that one day, you realise you just don’t feel like yourself anymore. You’ve become completely defined as “mum”, and while you love that new part of yourself, you wish it was just that – one part, not your entire existence. You miss fashion! Feeling cute! Not wearing the same items of clothing every day, all day!
The good news? Feeling stylish again doesn't require an entirely new wardrobe (or even uninterrupted sleep). Sometimes it's simply about finding a few effortless pieces and routines that help you feel a little more pulled together, even on the busiest newborn days.
From the sleek bun that's become every new mum's secret weapon to elevated knit pants, oversized shirts and beautifully designed baby gear like the new Babybee Alto pram, here's how to bring a little style back into everyday motherhood.
The Sleek Bun Is Popular For A Reason
There's a reason the sleek bun has become the unofficial hairstyle of modern motherhood.
It takes less than two minutes, works whether your hair is freshly washed or on day five, keeps little hands from grabbing it during feeds and somehow manages to make even the simplest outfit feel intentional.
Make it work by dampening hair, and using a fine toothed comb to smooth hair into a low bun. Apply some strong hold mousse or gel, and tie off into a bun or use a claw clip. A flyaway stick will keep those postpartum hairs in place through the day, too.
Pair it with a pair of simple huggie earrings, a swipe of tinted lip balm and suddenly your oversized tee looks less "teenage boy" and more "quiet luxury". The best part? Unlike a time consuming blowout, a sleek bun actually survives tummy time, playground visits and windy pram walks.
Baby Accessories Can Be Chic, Too
The truth is, one of the accessories you'll use most in those first few years isn't a baby bag, it's your pram. That's why choosing one that feels as beautiful as it is practical can genuinely elevate your everyday experience, and makes you feel more put together.
The Babybee Alto is a perfect example of thoughtful design meets modern style. With its clean lines, premium finishes and sophisticated colourways, it becomes a seamless part of your personal style instead of a bulky extra.
But, obviously, no one is buying a pram exclusively on aesthetics. This is where the Alto really shines. Designed by Australian parents, its lightweight frame, Australian-first folding bassinet and smooth ride (thanks to advanced suspension and innovative FlexCell™ wheels) mean it’s also packed with user-friendly features that make life easier. Even if you spill your coffee on it (life, right?) it’ll wipe straight off, and all the internal elements can be machine washed, too.
Folding into an ultra-compact, free-standing position (even with the seat or bassinet attached, facing any direction) premium details like the bamboo-lined bassinet, integrated UPF50+ sun and sleep cover, impressive storage capacity and sleek leather-look handlebar make it stand out in the pram market. Like a beautifully cut coat or a great pair of sneakers, it's proof that practical doesn't have to mean compromising on style.
Build Around Elevated Basics
don’t feel drawn to your old style, a capsule wardrobe has never been more of a worthwhile investment.
Think:
- A few quality oversized tees in elevated materials like linen blend, hemp or thick cotton
- Relaxed knitwear
- Comfortable straight-leg jeans (you can even stick to maternity styles for less rigidity)
- Fresh sneakers
- A crossbody bag that leaves your hands free
- Minimalist jewellery that doesn’t get in the way of baby duties
When every piece in your wardrobe works together, getting dressed becomes far less daunting, and honestly, pretty easy.
Trade Those Leggings For Knit Pants
We love them, and leggings will always have their place, especially in those early postpartum weeks. But if you're craving a tiny wardrobe upgrade without sacrificing comfort, knit pants might be the easiest swap you'll ever make.
Soft wide-leg knit trousers offer all the stretch and comfort of activewear while looking instantly more polished. They work with sneakers, slides or loafers, transition easily from coffee runs to baby classes and still feel cosy enough for afternoons spent on the floor with your baby.
They’re also fantastic if you’re heading back to the office, but still don’t want to attempt your old jeans or trousers. Just team with an oversized shirt or elevated tee, and you’ll wonder how you didn’t make the switch earlier.
Never Underestimate A Good Button-Up Shirt
If there's one item worth making space for in your post-baby wardrobe, it's an oversized button-up shirt.
Not only is it one of the easiest breastfeeding-friendly pieces you can own, but it instantly transforms the maternity camis and nursing tanks you're probably already living in. Wear it open over a fitted tank, half-tucked into knit pants or layered over denim when you're feeling ready to step back into jeans.
It's also the kind of wardrobe staple that keeps working long after your breastfeeding journey is over, so skip the cheap options and invest in a few that really feel great to wear.
Invest In An Easy Skincare & Makeup Routine
No, you don’t need 14 steps of skincare to support your skin barrier (and bring back that glow). Keep it simple, and you’re more likely to stick with it, even on mornings after chaotic nights. A Vitamin C serum, day moisturiser and SPF will cover you in the AM, and a peptide serum with a nourishing night cream before bed will help your skin regenerate as you (sort of) sleep.
For makeup, ditch the multiple steps for now because you probably don’t have the time! An illuminating, medium-coverage CC cream is easy to apply, then just apply a tinted brow gel and some mascara. Instant glow-up, guaranteed.
Style Doesn't Have To Wait
Motherhood changes loads about our lives, but it doesn't mean we have to give up the parts of ourselves that make us feel confident. Sometimes rediscovering your style is just about finding the upgrades that fit seamlessly into this season of life – a hairstyle that takes two minutes, a wardrobe that works hard, and baby essentials you'll genuinely love using every day.
Just remember! Feeling like yourself again isn't superficial. You deserve it.
