The new-mum capsule wardrobe: 6 pieces to see you through maternity leave

As any new parent knows, the early days with a newborn are a high-intensity crash course in safeguarding tiny human life, allowing little time for brushing your hair, never mind selecting an inspired outfit choice. For most, getting dressed during this (hazy) period is about reaching for comfortable and dynamic wardrobe options, designed to support us when we feel most vulnerable. This spans everything from silk-soft fabrics to mood-boosting prints – in essence, self-care you can wear. Here’s a guide to feel-good style for new mums, with no public appearances required.

With regular feeds and outfit changes (for you and your baby), a smart loose-fitting blouse you can button up and down easily is a boon. It can be swiftly thrown on to smarten up a pair of everyday jeans and trainers and worn with your Ergobaby carrier. Think of it as a morale boost, particularly for those moments when you want to look a bit more pulled together when venturing out for coffee and cake with friends. 

Be gentle on yourself – focus on denim that offers the same level of comfort as your favourite pair of tracksuit bottoms. A loose boyfriend style or wide-leg cropped pair are a great idea, not least because they look good with trainers (your new favourite footwear). Denim mixed with a bit of Lycra will also offer much-needed flexibility. Comfort is key, so look for relaxed styles – nothing you have to dance around to get into.

A classic t-shirt in super-soft cotton is to your maternity-leave wardrobe what the perfect pair of navy trousers are to your workwear one, which means it’s worth finding your perfect match. Seek out high-quality cotton that won’t become transparent when stretched and will work well with your feeding bra. A slouchy fit like a v-neck is good for breastfeeding and is a fine companion to denim. Tip: opt for a bigger size than usual and wear it slightly tucked in if it feels comfortable.

Jumpsuit, boiler suit, overalls? However you choose to describe this one-hit wonder turned wardrobe icon there’s no disputing its joy-inducing properties. Comfortable and classic, the best boilers for new mums are loose-fitting and flexible. Keep an eye out for utilitarian style with long sleeves. Whistles do a zip-front denim one that could be as crucial to your maternity leave as Netflix. Wear it with heavy-soled sandals, trainers or, if you really feel like it, a pair of heels.

A little luxury goes a long way, making cashmere a great addition to a new mother’s armory. Whatever the weather, a cashmere sweater in a neutral shade has the power to lift spirits. Think of it as a wearable hug. The more straightforward your choice in sweater, the more flexible it will be – look for crew or deep v-neck shapes that will work as well flung on with a pair of denim shorts as it will with a satin slip skirt. On a practical note, opting for a cashmere piece you can pop in the washing machine is never a bad idea.

With pushing a pram around the local park now a full-time occupation, the right footwear is essential. If you’re marching through the summer months, you’ll need a sandal with a thick sole on your side. Birkenstocks are a classic but there’s an array of other options to choose from (opt for slide-on styles for quick exits). Trainers, of course, are for all weathers so it’s worth having a few options up your sleeve. A pair of retro runners with punchy neon accents will lend cheer to otherwise low-key looks while a streamlined pair of white tennis shoes are a basic buy with maximum benefits. The general rule? Look for something as comfortable as your slippers.