The question is this: Until I am back into my near normal size, what do wear till then?

Everyone thinks the same thing, "After the baby comes, I will be back to my before size in no time." Sure, you instantly lose 25-30lbs after giving birth and your belly does go down-but how long before you can actually put away the maternity wear and never look back?

I have calculated that from giving birth, I lost a total of 26lbs and my belly looks about "early 4th month bump." Breastfeeding and pumping has helped a bunch, but I have serious ants in my pants and want this "pouch" gone. I know, I know...my baby will only be two weeks old...give it time.

I have been sedentary for months and months now! I want to move. I want to wear my old clothes again. I want to shop in the non-pregnant section. I want to wear insanely high heels. Most importantly, I need to fit into my business attire so I can look impeccable at some upcoming job interviews.

This, my friends, is the most important factor for me and my new family. Being unemployed at the moment has put a damper on our financial situation. In order for us to find a new place to live and get back on our feet, I must get a job.

The question is this: Until I am back into my near normal size, what do wear till then?


The easiest thing would be to purchase larger size clothes, right? Well there is nothing wrong with that, yet I feel that is almost too easy. I have plenty of fantastic clothes that are begging to be worn, in my old size.

VS $19.99 Cuffed poplin cotton shorts

Dressing a "bump" is a lot different than dressing a "pouch." One is cute and the latter is not. After putting away about 3/4 of my maternity wear I have figured out that tunics, empire tops, blouses, and blazers are the  pouch's friend. No need to rush into jeans or chinos; drawstring linen and  poplin cotton shorts/skirts are so in for summer. Even shorts with fabric waistbands are hot. Purchase in your usual size i.e. small, medium, etc. Victoria's Secret has the very same shorts I am talking about for $14.99 and up! The best part about these shorts, they are not maternity and you have the opportunity to wear them for more than three weeks!

We cannot forget leggings. These were a staple in the colder months during my pregnancy and they still can be postpartum. It may be a little hot in Chicago for cropped leggings, but under a tunic with some wedges, this will be perfect for your first night out or when company comes to visit.

I know that Spanx or a girdle will help with the pouch problem (duh), but it will also assist in downsizing faster! Check with your doctor first, you may not be able to resort to this until after six weeks.

What is my plan then? Have my mom come over to watch the baby and do a fashion show with all my clothes. This way I am able to pull out what I can wear now and what is coming close to being wearable. I plan on buying a few pairs of linen and cotton shorts, maybe even a linen skirt.

$29.80 Forever21

Remember, now is the time to draw the attention away from your stomach (weird, huh?) because everyone will be looking there once you tell them that you just had a baby three weeks ago. Focus the glorious attention on the girls or your legs. On the left is a perfect top from Forever21 to help draw the eyes away from your stomach with an embroidered sweetheart neckline.

Just because your a new mom lacking some serious sleep doesn't mean that you have to look it!

Here is some postpartum fashion finds inspired by the women of Paris: Romantic Vintage. Translation: lots of lace, chiffon, and pretty, pretty details!

$22.80 Forever21

$24.80 Forever21

$17.80 Forever21

$17.80 Forever21

$22.99 Charlotte Russe

celebritycombo.com