The Postpartum Closet: Building Confidence One Outfit at a Time
By Altish Yousaf

There is something truly sacred about a woman’s wardrobe, especially once she embraces motherhood. Where once her curated pieces were a reflection of who she used to be, slowly her fashion choices begin to embody a gentle expression of who she’s becoming. And in that delicate in-between of healing, self-rediscovery, and sleepless nights, a new version of personal style is born.
To be honest, postpartum styling is not simply about putting together a look for an audience, rather it is a medium to slowly and lovingly put yourself back together amidst the infinite changes that come with motherhood.

For the Moments No One Sees
The Maternity Project understands how overwhelming all these changes can be and what you choose to wear postpartum isn't simply about utility, it is also about reminding yourself that you’ve got this when no one else is around. And I understand the uncertainty surrounding curating your postpartum wardrobe because this phase is often portrayed via extremes - either a total abandonment of self or the haunting expectation to immediately “bounce back.” But in reality, the truth lies somewhere in between. It is found in that oversized shirt you wore for breastfeeding at midnight, that flowy dress you chose to wear the first time you left the house to run an errand or those jeans that finally fit.

Because You’ve Grown, In Every Way
Let’s be honest, your body has changed, you’ve changed. The pre-baby tailored blazer may not sit right anymore, both physically and emotionally. And that is okay because you are not in any race to “get back” to your prebaby size, style or a version of yourself that does not resonate with the woman you are today. That’s why we will start with where you are, in this new journey of motherhood.

Co-ords That Do the Thinking for You
One of my favourite silhouettes from TMP’s summer curation are the versatile co-ord sets by Nanushka, Kage and Undress Code. Let’s take the co-ord set by Nanushka featuring the Vally Wax Long Sleeve Pyjama Shirt and Brenda Wax Sheer Gauze Trouser. The beauty of this matching set is that it looks instantly pulled together without any mental effort. This look is meant for the multitasking mom who wants to feel polished but not restricted. You can wear the full set for a polished moment, then break it apart. I would suggest you pair the top with high-waisted jeans for coffee runs or pair the trouser with an oversized blazer for last minute work commitments.

Loungewear That Knows Your Rhythm
Another postpartum non-negotiable are the TMP’s cult favourite luxe loungewear sets by Desmond & Dempsey. These are the pieces you reach out for when you want to feel at ease, but elevated. Imagine you’re lounging at home in your Gingham 50’s Voile Brown Cami Lounge Set and suddenly remember that you have to get ready for girls’ lunch. No problem! You simply accessorise your existing loungewear with a pair of chocolate brown boots, statement earrings and for an extra oomph factor add the Nanushka Dodie Yellow Wool Jacket on the shoulders, and just like that you’re ready to have a moment for yourself with your girlfriends.

The Dress That Reminds You, You’re Still Her
And of course, postpartum styling is incomplete without dresses that adapt to your changing body. For example, the Sayan Ice Blue Slip Satin Sleeveless dress by Nanushka, cinches the body where you want it to and flows where you need it to. For date night, layer delicate necklaces, slip on a pair of comfortable yet chic kitten heels, spritz your favorite fragrance, and you’re suddenly reminded: oh right, I’m still her.
But more than clothes, I want you to remember that your postpartum wardrobe is not a “temporary” phase. Rather, it is part of your evolution as you choose pieces that honor the full arc of your story - the pre, during and post pregnancy stages. You have to remember that fashion is deeply personal, and during motherhood it becomes even more so. The right outfit doesn't just flatter you now, it supports you. So no, you don’t need to stress about figuring out a new wardrobe from scratch. You just need a few good pieces that meet you where you are, dynamic pieces that understand that confidence comes from feeling like yourself, maybe even for the first time in a long while. Don’t forget that you have achieved something truly incredible, and you’re continuing to do so as you untangle the complexities of motherhood. Let your clothes reflect that willpower. Wrap yourself in softness and step into silhouettes that celebrate your now. And when you look in the mirror, may you always see a woman becoming, neither behind nor ahead, exactly where she needs to be.
Altish Yousaf
Altish Yousaf is the founder of Saaish, a boutique styling and creative consultancy known for curating unique styling experiences. A graduate of Dartmouth College, Altish blends a rich academic foundation with a deeply intuitive sense of artistry and individuality. At Saaish, she offers an intimate styling journey to clients worldwide creating visual narratives that feel personal, intentional and timeless.
In her writing for TMP, Altish brings the same passion and fearless creativity; whether you’re a new mom discovering your evolving identity or a woman redefining power dressing through her postpartum wardrobe, Altish’s voice speaks to every version of you with elegance, relatability, and confidence.