You are a mom with a new baby and the last thing on your mind is taking care of yourself. The baby’s needs must be met first. Think again mom. You have to take care of you too.
To begin, take a shower so that you start the day out fresh and clean. It does not have to be long, but at least try to get it done before noon. If you take a shorter shower, instead of lingering in the steamy relaxing water, you will have more time to get yourself dressed for the day.
Makeup: It can take anywhere from two to twenty minutes to apply makeup. If all you have is two minutes to spare, that works, if you make smart choices in applying the makeup. For the quick application, use concealer to hide signs of sleep deprivation, a little blush to make your face glow, dark mascara to make your eyes look awake, and a touch of gloss on your lips to finish it all off.
Hair: Since your new morning routine might only include about 10 minutes for you, keep your hair styling basic. A regular ponytail for longer hair can get boring, so vary the types of ponytails and clips by doing low, side-ponytails with flower clips or by wrapping a strand of hair around the top of your pony to hide the elastic. For shorter hair, apply a volumizer at the roots and quickly blow dry, running your hair between your fingers. Apply pomade to the tips for texture.
Clothes: With a new baby comes a new figure, so you want to make sure to choose clothing that compliment. If an article of clothing looks like it will split open, stay away from it. Just tell yourself that for right now, it is too small. After two months of eating right and getting some exercise you will be able to get into it. Besides, if you wear what compliments your figure you feel more beautiful anyway. As-a-matter-of-fact, you may want to consider wearing your maternity clothes so your body feels good while it heals.
Be weary of shirts, especially if you breastfeed. Wear tunic-length shirts that flow instead of fitting too tight around your curves. Button-down shirts should not have gaps between the buttons, pull too tight, or be too small. Fitted camisoles under shirts cover you well.
Buy at least one pair of pants in your current size. For the pants you own that are too small around the waist, consider using an elastic band through the buttonhole and wear a shirt long enough to cover it. You can also purchase a “sleeve” to wear under a shirt to cover your middle and the top of your un-buttoned pants. Don’t be afraid to try drawstring pants as another fashion option for now and later after the baby fat is gone.
A pretty dress can always lift your mood. Again, look for one that flatters your figure and isn’t tight.
Accessories: Accessories are a must! The correct shoes and jewelry can do a lot for your outfit. Wear at least one piece of jewelry everyday. Heels are good if you are going out for the day because they make your legs look long and you appear slimmer.
If you feel good about yourself, you will be a more joyful mommy for not just the baby, but your entire brood. Relax! You can take time out during the day for you! Don’t be ashamed to look fabulous when you show off the new baby. It is a guarantee that Daddy will love it too.