By April Denise

Don’t fall victim to the images of postpartum celebrities that you see in gossip magazines, your body does not bounce back after having a baby (unless of course you’re Giselle Bunchden). The reality of the situation is that it can take nearly a year to regain your pre-baby bod, and many women continue to appear pregnant up to five months after giving birth. I will never forget being at the mall with one of my closest girlfriends nearly 4 months after she delivered her beautiful baby boy. While shopping for an outfit for her first night out since delivery, we ran into a mutual acquaintance who boisterously greeted her with, “Girl, you ain’t have that baby yet?! It seems as if you’ve been pregnant 10 years!”

The truth was that my friend was nowhere close to being back to her pre-baby weight and hadn’t felt sexy in a very long time. Working full time and managing a home, husband and small children leave very little time for religiously attending cardio barre classes or bikram yoga. However, if we slightly tweak our wardrobe selections, we can give our self-confidence a boost, subsequently alleviating a little bit of the pressure to snap back into shape at lightning speed. These effortlessly fabulous items should be a part of every new MILF’s wardrobe:

Shapewear

Lycra is a new mom’s best friend. I suggest investing in the Cognito Shaping Mid-Thigh Bodysuit by Spanx (extends from just beneath your breasts to your mid-thigh) or the Slimmer & Shine High-Waisted Body Tunic by Spanx. If the price tags on these items are not within your budget, opt for similar versions from more affordable competitors. Shapewear can be a part of your ensemble on a daily basis until you feel 100% comfortable in your skin again.  You’ll feel sexy in seconds in these body-smoothing pieces.

Empire Waist Dress

In the very early stages of pregnancy when my bump was still a “pooch,” I lived in these. They are perfect for camouflaging a protruding midsection and accentuating your breasts and décolleté. Flowy long options are fantastic for trips to the mall or long walks through your neighborhood with your baby, and not to mention quite comfortable (and fashionable). Opt for a shorter version for a date night with your hubby or to wear on your first day back at the office.

Wrap Sweater (Or Dress)

These cute and cozy duds flatter virtually every body type, and are especially great for slimming and accentuating the midsection. Choose a black mid-thigh length version to slim and elongate your frame. I suggest a cream version as well as an addition to your wardrobe (spit-up blends in quite well with this color!). Visit your local Marshalls or TJ Maxx for great quality sweaters at affordable prices. These stores have a pretty extensive sweater collection and have yet to disappoint me.

Studded Flat Ankle Boots

I was the ultimate 5-inch high pump gal up until my 9th month of pregnancy, when I was finally forced to make the painful transition to flat shoes. While perusing the aisles at Nordstrom Rack for a pair of knee-high flat riding boots and I came across a pair of Sam Edelman ankle boots with fabulous studded embellishments, and have lived in them ever since. I never realized just how versatile this style of boot truly is. Throw them on with jeggings or a cute dress to add some edge to your ensemble.

Drape Jacket

This fashionable piece is my personal favorite of the options. I personally own both cotton and leather versions of this chic jacket. The draping lapels fall beautifully over your midsection covering your still existent pooch. This piece is also extremely versatile and can be dressed up or down which is perfect for on-the-go moms. I love throwing mine on with skinny pants, a soft cotton v-neck t-shirt and Uggs or riding boots. Finish with great studded earrings (be careful with large hoops when playing with your baby) for a little jazz.

High Waist Jeggings

This comfortable alternative to jeans are a must have for every new mom. The stretchy material is perfect since we’re constantly moving around, not to mention they cover your tummy without leaving an indentation from an uncomfortable waistband.  They can be dressed up or down, making them perfect for date night and/or play dates. They are also inexpensive so no worries when your bundle of joy projectile vomits (or worse) on them. I purchase mine from Forever 21. They have an array of fashionable colors and styles at affordable prices.

Remember you are SEXY and fabulous even with 3 hours of sleep and baby vomit all over your blouse. There is nothing more empowering or beautiful then bringing life into this world. Fine your inner MILF and shine!

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