Stylish Postpartum outfit for hospital (that aren't hospital gowns) - SoCal Mommy Life (2024)

As a new mom, there is nothing more exciting than bringing your bundle of joy into this world. But as you count down to delivery day, you might also be thinking about what outfit to wear!

As a seasoned mom who’s endured extended hospital stays after bringing new life into the world, I’ve learned a thing or two about comfortable yet stylish hospital wear.

And let me tell you, the struggle to find cute postpartum outfits is real.

But fear not, fellow mamas, for I have curated a list of my favorite wardrobe essentials for those first few days in the hospital and the journey home.

From best pants after birth to going-home outfit for mom after birth, we’ve got options for all budgets and styles. So get ready because these outfits are sure to have you looking chic while taking on your newest role as mom!

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This post is all about postpartum outfit for hospital.

Preparing for your hospital stay

While you may have your hospital bags packed for the big arrival, don’t forget to pack yourself a postpartum outfit! In between all the excitement and packing of baby mittens and thank you cards, make sure to take a few minutes and find something comfy yet cute to bring with you.

Pack a few outfits that are comfortable yet still give you a little confidence boost so when visitors come around, your postpartum look will be ready. Trust me, it’ll do wonders for your post-delivery mood!

RELATED POST: Hospital Bag Essentials Checklist – for mom, dad, and baby

How to choose the best postpartum outfit for hospital

Your priority should be comfort and ease of movement without compromising style. Choose items that are loose-fitting and breathable for your postpartum outfit.

Consider buying nursing tops for the convenience of breastfeeding, and pants with an elasticized waistband in case you recently had a c-section.

The hospital is notorious for being cold. Not to mention, our bodies are already weakened from the labor and delivery process. It’s important to pack long sleeves and cozy socks to keep yourself warm and prevent any unwanted colds.

The ultimate list of postpartum outfit for hospital

Full-length robe

A full length robe is a game-changer. Not only will it keep you feeling snuggly and secure during those first few days of adjustment, but it also makes kangaroo care and breastfeeding a breeze.

Stylish Postpartum outfit for hospital (that aren't hospital gowns) - SoCal Mommy Life (2)

Wrap dress

One standout piece you absolutely need is a tie closure wrap dress. Not only does it look stylish, but the front-opening design is optimal for new moms who need ease and comfort, especially after a C-section.

A print wrap dress is also a great choice for going home outfit for mom after birth.

Stylish Postpartum outfit for hospital (that aren't hospital gowns) - SoCal Mommy Life (3)

Buttondown dress

A fabulous button-down dress that’s not only chic, but practical too. With easy access for breastfeeding, you won’t have to worry about exposing your entire breast.

Stylish Postpartum outfit for hospital (that aren't hospital gowns) - SoCal Mommy Life (4)

Two piece outfit

A comfortable two-piece outfit has the best return of investment. I got mine 6 years ago for Baby #1 and to this day, I still wear them at home.

These pajamasare made from bamboo fibers. They are very soft, feels cool, and light-weight. You will feel like you’re on cloud nine wearing them and your baby will appreciate them as well.

Bonus – the button down shirt provides easy access for breastfeeding and pumping.

Nursing top

These are my favorite nursing tops I used to wear right after giving birth. They are soft and not too low-cut. The side-ruched design really flatters the body. I wear them during my entire breastfeeding journey and beyond.

Nursing bras

Have at least 5nursing braswashed and ready to wear in your postpartum care kit. You will be spending lots of time breastfeeding and pumping so you want a bra that is easily accessible.

These nursing bras snap down easily and they are comfortable to sleep with.

For less than $7 a piece, these nursing bras are a steal!

Stylish Postpartum outfit for hospital (that aren't hospital gowns) - SoCal Mommy Life (8)

Bonus tip: There’s no need to get a separate pumping bra. I just put on this genius hands-free pumping kit while still wearing my nursing bra. I was able to pump and massage my breasts simultaneously to get more milk in less time.

Postpartum Panties

Your hospital may provide you the mesh postpartum panties, but they are super uncomfortable. It actually made me really itchy. So, packing some comfortable panties that you can wear right after delivery and months to come is important.

Stylish Postpartum outfit for hospital (that aren't hospital gowns) - SoCal Mommy Life (9)

95% cotton, 5% spandex · Double-layered fabric · Soft & stretchy

Stylish Postpartum outfit for hospital (that aren't hospital gowns) - SoCal Mommy Life (10)

Best for C-section recovery · Patented silicon panel helps reduce the appearance of scars

Non-slip cozy socks

Give those tootsies some love after childbirth with some non-slip cozy socks! Keep your feet snug and prevent any slippery situations with their handy grips. It’s a simple yet essential addition to your hospital bag.

Stylish Postpartum outfit for hospital (that aren't hospital gowns) - SoCal Mommy Life (11)

Cotton blend · Superior grips stay in through washes

Stylish Postpartum outfit for hospital (that aren't hospital gowns) - SoCal Mommy Life (12)

Fluffy and cozy · Perfect for winter

Postpartum belly wrap

The extra belly fat will sag after the delivery of your baby so wearing a belly wrap from day one will help to hold your tummy in. The belt will also speed up your recovery by shrinking the uterus, support your lower back, and redefine the waistline.

For both of my pregnancies, I have worn this postpartum belly wrap from the day I delivered up until 8 weeks postpartum. In order to achieve maximum results, you need to wear the band as much as possible during the day and night.

Stylish Postpartum outfit for hospital (that aren't hospital gowns) - SoCal Mommy Life (13)

What I love about this3-in-1 postpartum belly bandis that it has 3 different belts for the waist, belly, and pelvis.

The material is very comfortable and breathable. It even comes with pictured instructions on how to wear the belt, even if you have a C-section!

Best postpartum clothes for winter

Picture this: you’re on your way home with your precious newborn, but the chilly winter air is attacking and you’re freezing. That’s where the thermal set and plush robe come in to save the day (and your body temperature)! Plus, who says you can’t still rock this cozy ensemble long after your fourth trimester? So go ahead, snuggle up and stay warm in style.

Stylish Postpartum outfit for hospital (that aren't hospital gowns) - SoCal Mommy Life (14)

Thermal set • Super soft • Available in 14 designs

Stylish Postpartum outfit for hospital (that aren't hospital gowns) - SoCal Mommy Life (15)

Cozy fleece • Zip front • Available in 5 colors

Best pants for after birth

These versatile pants are so soft and stretchy, they’ll be your go-to for months. No matter how much your midsection expands (or shrinks), these pants have got you covered.

Stylish Postpartum outfit for hospital (that aren't hospital gowns) - SoCal Mommy Life (16)

Durable jersey · Side Ruched Waist · Fold over belly waistband

Stylish Postpartum outfit for hospital (that aren't hospital gowns) - SoCal Mommy Life (17)

Stylish sweatpants · Buttery soft · Available in various colors

Postpartum outfit for hospital FAQs

Do you wear a hospital gown after delivery?

I was in my hospital gown for the first day but I always wear my full-length robe on top of it since the hospital is so cold. On day two and the big going home day, I swapped out the robe for my favorite dresses. After all, a little outfit change can do wonders for the spirits.

Do you wear a bra under a hospital gown?

I didn’t wear a bra under my hospital gown because I was doing kangaroo care every moment my baby was awake. Whether wearing a bra under a hospital gown or not is merely a personal preference. But if you do, wear a nursing bra so that you can easily breastfeed.

Can you wear jeans after giving birth?

Keep in mind that your body just accomplished something pretty incredible, so give it the time it needs to heal and adjust. Sure, you can throw on those favorite jeans of yours, but be warned – it may feel a little like trying to squeeze back into your middle school clothes. And let’s be real, no one wants that uncomfortable feeling, especially if you have some battle scars from a vagin*l tear or a C-section. Your body needs time to heal and adjust, so give it the VIP treatment it deserves. Opt for some loose-fitting clothes like a dress or lounge pants that won’t rub against your delicate areas.

The last thing you need to know about the best postpartum outfit for hospital

Preparing for the hospital with an ultimate post-partum outfit is a great way for you to feel comfortable and confident about your next steps into motherhood. Above all else, make sure to prioritize your health and well-being – mentally, emotionally, and physically. With the right postpartum staples, you can rest well knowing you’re ready to face whatever lies ahead.

What did I miss? Let me know in the comments below how you made your hospital experience more effortless with your postpartum ensemble!

Postpartum outfit for hospital related posts

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  • The Ultimate Postpartum Care Kit : 20 Postpartum Essentials Every New Mom Should have for a faster recovery
  • Life-Changing remedies for postpartum hair loss and how to Grow New Hair Fast
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Stylish Postpartum outfit for hospital (that aren't hospital gowns) - SoCal Mommy Life (18)
Stylish Postpartum outfit for hospital (that aren't hospital gowns) - SoCal Mommy Life (19)
Stylish Postpartum outfit for hospital (that aren't hospital gowns) - SoCal Mommy Life (2024)

FAQs

What clothes to wear in hospital after giving birth? ›

"In most cases, it's okay to wear your regular clothes postpartum. You don't have to stay in the hospital gown," says Dr. Alrahmani. Choose a loose, comfortable set of PJs that are either sleeveless or have short, loose sleeves so that your blood pressure can be checked easily.

Do you have to wear hospital gown after delivery? ›

Some women stay in the hospital gown their entire time at the hospital. That's totally fine. If you would rather slip into some loose clothing of your own — that's cool, too. Think dark-colored yoga pants, nursing or button-down shirts, and other loungey clothing, like a robe, with easy access for breastfeeding.

What does mom wear home from hospital? ›

Clothes wise, immediately post-partum or for coming home, I would recommend stretchy dresses or leggings and a large t-shirt or vest in the summer months. In the colder months, joggers, leggings, or trusty maternity dungarees are perfect. A hoody or cardigan to keep warm too.

How should I dress after giving birth? ›

5 Postpartum Fashion Must-Haves
  1. Nursing-friendly tops.
  2. Elastic-waist bottoms.
  3. Easy layering pieces.
  4. Basic tank tops.
  5. Comfortable shoes.
May 19, 2023

What is a peri bottle? ›

Peri bottle: This squeeze bottle is a must-have for helping you urinate and keep clean after a vagin*l delivery, especially if you have any tearing or stitches. To use a peri bottle, fill it with warm water and squeeze the bottle to squirt water directly onto your vagin*l area while you urinate.

How do I style my postpartum belly? ›

Go for darker colors. Darker colors absorb light and make bodies appear slimmer than they actually are. Colors like navy blue, black, deep browns, and charcoal should be your go-to when dressing the postpartum body. Apart from making you look slimmer, they make your silhouette appear more curvy and sensuous.

What can I wear instead of a hospital gown? ›

Any sort of soft (not too thick) robe is great for labor and postpartum. These ones are super soft and has lots of pretty patterns to choose from. Robes are absolutely perfect for skin-to-skin. I personally loved having pretty robes that made me feel super comfortable and kinda dressed up at the same time.

What is the alternative to hospital gown during labor? ›

Coverage. You might have to get up and walk around for many hours during labor, so full coverage–as opposed to an open-back hospital gown–can come in handy. A robe is an ideal option for covering up the hospital gown, and easy to take on and off, too.

What is the best robe for a hospital birth? ›

The best maternity robe is the Kindred Bravely Emmaline Robe, because it's super soft, has some stretch and versatile enough for postpartum wear. Whether you're newly pregnant, nearing your due date or in the throes of the fourth trimester, a maternity robe can offer you plenty of comfort when you crave it most.

How many outfits does mom need for hospital? ›

You can certainly overdo it when it comes to packing your hospital bag. Here's what not to bring to the hospital when you're ready to deliver: Too much clothing for you or the baby. Choose one outfit each and leave the rest at home.

Do you wear a bra during labor? ›

Studies suggest giving birth is the equivalent to running a marathon in terms of energy output, (and can actually result in similar injuries, but let's not go there right now!) so it makes sense to wear a bra and/or clothing fit for exertion and perspiration.

What does mum need in her hospital bag? ›

Hospital bag checklist for mum: the essentials

Your birth plan and medical notes. A blanket, a pillow from home or a pregnancy support pillow; also useful for breastfeeding. A TENS machine, if you want to use this, with spare batteries. Your favourite toiletries in miniature (travel size tubes are great).

What should a mother avoid after giving birth? ›

Expect vagin*l discharge. Avoid stairs and lifting until your doctor says these activities are OK. Don't take a bath or go swimming until the doctor says it's OK. Don't drive until your doctor says it's OK.

What is a nap dress? ›

Often, the only fitted part of the dress is around the bust, and other key features include “heavy smocking, overexaggerated puff sleeves and a typically long, slightly pleated skirt.” While nap dresses may be comfortable enough to sleep in, their purpose goes far beyond that of a nightgown.

How long after birth do you still wear maternity clothes? ›

When choosing the right postpartum clothes, remember that over the next 8 weeks or so, your body will be recovering and adjusting to the significant changes after giving birth. These changes will be incremental so don't expect to be able to get back into your pre-maternity clothes for some time.

Can you refuse to wear a hospital gown? ›

Yes. Unless you are a minor, incompetent or unconscious you can refuse to wear a gown anywhere.

Do I need a robe for postpartum? ›

While it is nice to have your own clothes with you, labor and the first few days postpartum are most often a very messy time, so you may not want to wear your brand-new lingerie. Items you should bring: Nightgown and bathrobe.

Do you still wear maternity clothes after birth? ›

Maternity dresses: Not only are maternity dresses designed with your bump specifically in mind, but many maternity dresses have nursing-friendly features so you can continue wearing them after giving birth if you're choosing to breastfeed.

Do you need a robe for hospital pregnancy? ›

A robe is a must-have for your hospital bag checklist. You can put it on over your hospital gown to walk the halls during labor and it's a favorite postpartum clothing item.

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