Many of us may not have the luxury of dressing in head-to-toe designer fashion, but that doesn’t mean we should underestimate the impact of what we wear each morning. The simple act of getting dressed is more than just a routine—it’s an essential part of setting the tone for the day ahead, shaping our confidence, and influencing our mindset.
Rediscovering Myself Through Fashion
During my postpartum period, particularly in the first three months, my wardrobe consisted almost exclusively of a nursing bra and a robe. I was in full survival mode—grabbing sleep whenever possible, tending to my newborn, and trying to maintain some level of sanity. Fashion was the last thing on my mind. However, even after those exhausting first months, I found myself reaching for the same bathrobe day after day. Without realizing it, my reluctance to get dressed was affecting my mood, leaving me feeling sluggish and disconnected from myself.
I was undeniably exhausted, but the lethargy extended beyond just physical tiredness. It was seeping into my overall demeanor. One day, I had a realization: my wardrobe no longer reflected who I wanted to be. Instead of waiting until I could fit back into my pre-pregnancy clothes, I decided to take action. I went out and bought a few stylish yet comfortable pieces—dresses and jeans that fit my body as it was in that moment.
The Confidence Boost of Clothes That Fit
So often, we delay dressing the way we want until we “lose the weight,” “tone up,” or “get back to our old size.” But in doing so, we deny ourselves the confidence and joy that come with wearing clothes that make us feel good. The simple act of putting on well-fitting, stylish outfits gave me an unexpected boost. It didn’t just change how I looked—it changed how I carried myself, how I engaged with my family, and how I approached each day.
That’s why my biggest advice for new mothers (or anyone going through a transition) is this: don’t wait. Invest in a few pieces that make you feel like yourself again, even if you know your body is still changing. Of course, you don’t need to splurge on an entirely new wardrobe, but having a handful of go-to outfits that fit well and make you feel confident is invaluable.
The Psychological Power of Getting Dressed
There’s something incredibly transformative about putting on an outfit that makes you feel good. Studies have shown that the clothes we wear can impact our cognitive processes, emotions, and even productivity. When we get dressed with intention, we shift our mindset from one of inertia to one of action. It signals to our brain that we are ready to engage with the world, rather than simply exist in it.
Even if you don’t have anywhere special to go, getting dressed in something that makes you feel put-together can elevate your entire day. Whether it’s slipping into a cozy yet chic sweater, styling your hair, or adding a favorite piece of jewelry, these small efforts accumulate into a greater sense of self-worth.
Dressing for Yourself
At the end of the day, fashion is not just about aesthetics—it’s about self-expression and self-care. When we dress well, we remind ourselves of our own worth. We take the time to say, “I matter,” even in the midst of life’s chaos.
So, I encourage you to get dressed every morning, even when you don’t feel like it. The effort you put into your appearance isn’t just for the outside world—it’s for you. It’s about reclaiming your identity, boosting your confidence, and setting the stage for a day filled with possibility. Once you start feeling like yourself again, everything else—your energy, creativity, and enthusiasm—will naturally fall into place.
Embrace the power of getting dressed. It’s more than just fashion—it’s a mindset.
