I've had some crazy unreal expectations as to what I should look like after having a baby. I was so positive I'd be skipping around in my before clothes that after a few weeks post baby I got kind of depressed. I wish I could say that I've grown into my new motherly body (again). That I have embraced my loose skin and thicker thighs but I'm just not quite there. And likely never will be. I'm extremely hard on myself most days, determined to look my very best. It's a flaw that's been drilled into me since I was a young kid. With that in mind, it's something I've worked leaps and bounds for my daughters
NOT to be like. To love their bodies and themselves just as they are and yet here I am, not listening to what I preach. I
know I can't be just as I was before. It's only been 3 months and I rarely have time to exercise. I'm sure by now you're rolling your eyes (like most people do), thinking I'm crazy. That I don't look like I've had a baby but it's not how I feel in person. Plus the constant reminder that nothing in my closet fits me weighs me down.
Whew! I'm a fairly open book except for this, I don't usually share my character flaws with others online but here is one of mine and it's a big one. It's often said that we are our own worse enemy or critic and for me that couldn't be more true. I don't usually get really serious about topics on here. I like to keep it light, no drama, and fun. However I was inspired to touch on a subject that hits close to home for me. Have you ever wanted to discuss a topic online only to shy away from it? I'll admit I've started writing this many times only to change it and talk about something else.
Perhaps this topic isn't such a big deal to some but with so many aggressive people online expressing how important positive body image is, it can be intimidating to be anything but. How does this tie into this outfit post? Well despite my struggle to find my confidence again,
Pink Blush Maternity clothing truly makes me feel beautiful getting out in public. Their clothing is wonderfully comfortable and flattering. Whether you're pregnant, nursing, or just an everyday woman, their clothing works. Like I've mentioned online, no their clothing isn't quite my style. I prefer a more vintage look but when you're a nursing mama in need of functionality and style, Pink Blush Maternity has you covered!
A while back I was contacted by Pink Blush Maternity to do a review/collaboration them. I will stress that my opinions are my own and I will NOT be swayed one way or another by free merchandise. With that in mind I actually really love their clothing. Before contacting me, I had already purchased from them a couple times while pregnant. Now nursing I appreciate their clothing even more.
The dress I'm styling is currently not available on their site. It seems shortly after I received it it became unavailable. However this style is in
MANY different prints as well as shorter lengths. I love how stretchy this dress is. It makes getting it on easy with no worrying about that dreaded pop sound so many of my other dresses presently make. It's slinky and I often find myself swishing this dress from side to side like a little kids because who doesn't love doing that?! It is very long and at my 5'6.6" height it just barely floats above the ground in flats. Honestly I kind of like it that way.
Even with my postpartum tummy and fuller thighs, this style and pattern seems to hide the flaws that bother me perfectly. I do find that this particular dress does run a bit big compared to their other styles that seem a bit smaller. I had to pin the side to keep my bra from showing because I'm not a busty woman. In the future I plan to size down.
Thanks for listen to my craziness today! I have many posts to share in the future! I'm also looking for a few guest speakers. It's been something I've wanted to do for a while but never got around to. If you're interested in writing a post on my blog, please message me! It would be wonderful, while I go through the motions of being a new mom all over again, to keep my blog more active. I'm open to a variety of topics and I'd be thrilled to swap, doing a guest post for you too or just advertise for your guest post.
Outfit Details:
Dress: Pink Blush Maternity c/o (similar
here,
here, and
here)
Cardigan:
Modcloth
Shoes: Chelsea Crew (ModCloth) old pair, similar
here and
here
Anyhoo till next time xoxo!
Take Care & Enjoy,
♥ Heather