Becoming a mum is a life-changing experience, bringing numerous changes, including those related to fashion and style identity. Naomi, a new mum who recently featured in Body Shape Masterclass mr29, shares her story of rediscovering her confidence and wardrobe with Melissa's help.
MOTHERHOOD AND STYLE CHALLENGES
Before welcoming her daughter Maeve in early 2024, Naomi had a long career in the property industry that she loved and before the pandemic she had been super fit. A UK 6-8 at her smallest she attempted an Ironman, ran 2 4hr marathons, completed several long distance bike rides and was a Les Mills Body Pump and studio cycling instructor. By the time she became pregnant she had gone up to a size 16 and looked dramatically different.
“l embraced pregnancy quite well and had no major complaints. Maeve arrived in early 2024 and we couldn’t be happier! She’s a very cheeky, cheerful little character.”
Despite the absolute joy of welcoming her baby daughter Naomi found herself in a post-pregnancy style-rut.
She admits she had no idea how to dress her new body.
"In 2022, during our trip to Australia, I realised I was still trying to dress like I did in my early 20s"
Many of us can relate to Noami’s post-holiday regrets, as so many of us dress for the life or the body we used to have! Naomi often chose bold, bright colours and complicated outfits that didn’t necessarily flatter her new shape.
POSTPARTUM CONFUSION
One of the biggest challenges Naomi faced was transitioning out of maternity clothes. Shopping for new clothes three weeks postpartum was a frustrating experience, as her body continued to change rapidly, and nothing seemed to fit right for long. "Breastfeeding was literally sucking everything out of me," she says. Coupled with changing fashion trends, Naomi felt lost in finding her style.
STEPPING OUT OF HER COMFORT ZONE
Initially apprehensive about seeking professional styling help, Naomi feared she was beyond help. However, her worries were quickly dispelled when she met Melissa from MM Personal Styling. "Melissa's realistic approach was refreshing. She didn’t sugar-coat things and embraced my mum tum, teaching me how to style myself around it."
THE STYLING PROCESS
The styling session began with a thorough assessment of Naomi’s feelings and style obstacles. Melissa's process was smooth and engaging, making Naomi feel at ease. The session included standout moments like trying on a white denim shirt dress from Mint Velvet and a black swimsuit that boosted her confidence significantly. The denim jumpsuit with a wide leg also became a favourite.
STYLE REVELATIONS
One of the most surprising takeaways for Naomi was learning how to make clothes work better for her, such as gaining an extra inch in height from styling pieces in the right and that despite being petite, Melissa she discovered she didn’t need petite sizes!
POST STYLING CONFIDENCE
After the styling session, Naomi felt ready to showcase her new look. She proudly wore her new outfits to a baby class and received several compliments, which reaffirmed her confidence. "I couldn’t help but share my MM styling experience with everyone," she beams.
LASTING CHANGES AND PRACTICAL TIPS
Since her restyle, Naomi's approach to fashion has transformed. She now makes conscious outfit choices based on her daily activities, whether it’s food shopping or a social outing. The most valuable tip she learned was the importance of the tuck and how jewellery can elevate an outfit.
ENCOURAGING NEW MUMS
Following her experience in the studio Naomi recommends a personal styling session to other new mums.
"There is so much about being a new mum that can make you feel like you are living in a fog. Get out of those maternity leggings and head to the studio. You won’t regret it, and you’ll regain some of your identity."
Commentaires