How to master a post-maternity leave work wardrobe
When I was pregnant, I found myself directed by somewhat persistent algorithms to online spam pieces with the heading: “What no one tells you about having a baby.” Spoiler: everyone tells you everything about having a baby. There is no secret left to clickbait.
But you know what no one really tells you about after having a baby? The back to work bump. No! Not that kind. But the kind that appears when you stop lugging an infant around all day, or schlepping a buggy around the neighbourhood in search of something, anything, more entertaining than soft play. The sort that comes with eight hours a day back on your bum in a swivel chair and a constant stream of co-workers’ birthday cakes.
Reader, maybe it’s age, but it’s more likely girth – an elasticated waist is my best friend right now. I know. But here’s the thing, until my fitness regime kicks in, that’s just where we are.
Cotton twill Loden trousers, £95, Toast; Woven jersey mix pleated top, £55, COS
This, however, doesn’t mean I’m condemned to a life in sportswear outside of my lacklustre gym efforts. Thrillingly, a comfy, yet smart – and stylish (obviously) – trouser is happening.
For fashion weeks I spent my nappy budget on a pair of Stella McCartney Julia trousers (£395, Stella McCartney), which are essentially tracksuit bottoms but in a viscose mix fabric – like suiting. I love them, and sizing runs up to an 18.
Also see Toast, which has a very chic selection of wool pinstripe trousers, as well as cotton twill in lots of tempting autumnal colours – ideal for this milder weather.
Lila white trainers, around £110, Veja; Velvet slippers, £99, Kurt Geiger
The temptation is, of course, to reach for a voluminous, roomy top. But this can be an error – I was doing an oversized blouson-y blouse with my trousers, and honestly, it really didn’t do much for me. Excess fabric can just make you look excess. Try something a little more structured – this COS top is good, and has a long line if you want to keep the waistband covered up.
Last winter I bought a checked blazer from Zara and I have lived in it. Cleverly, its brown/blue/mustard/grey colour ways mean that it goes with everything: jeans, dresses, fancy tracksuit bottoms. There are lots of similar versions in at the moment – it’s been one of my best ever high street investments (which I make with increasing infrequency).
Lastly, when you’re not feeling at your full fashion peak, and have a cupboard full of clothes that don’t do up, shoes are a comfort. I’m such a fan of a jazzy flat – look how divine these velvet beauties are. And, when I am schlepping back with that buggy, a fabulous trainer gives all sorts of bounce.
