Closet Case

Renowned fashion stylist, wardrobe editor and personal shopper Annabel Hodin (annabelhodin.com) says, “Any time you reach a pivotal point in life, it is an exciting opportunity to redefine your style. Your clothes represent the ‘new you’ and the image you wish to portray.”

Hodin has worked with many clients postpartum – editing wardrobes to help women feel beautiful while embracing their new role as a mother. Her trained eye is invaluable so you can’t go wrong using her services. “Getting dressed in the morning is no longer the half-hour struggle of despair that I have ‘no clothes’ despite a credit card that is maxed to its limit.” You must be ruthless while culling your wardrobe, subjecting every garment to the following questions: does it fit properly and do I feel good wearing it? The advice from Hodin is to find the perfect trousers to use as a base to assess your tops. Stick to classic colours, she says, like black, navy, grey, white and camel. For jeans, invest in one pair in blue and one pair in another colour. V-neck sweaters, a casual jacket and, of course, the LBD are all part of your core wardrobe – then mix in investment pieces like a cashmere cardigan and a dress coat.

As for a postnatal wardrobe detox, this doesn’t mean chucking all your loungewear to make room for new Louboutins. In fact, Hodin, suggests it’s important to be well-groomed no matter what you’re wearing: “Have flattering loungewear in classic colours according to your colouring. Stick to clean lines and a neat look in good proportions to your body.” Hodin also says comfort is important for both stay-at-home and working mothers: “Going to work or staying at home makes no difference to the quality of the wardrobe you should have at your disposal. The only difference is those practical requirements.” When it comes to shoes “Try on every shoe with your outfits and get rid of any that do not go with your clothes or are uncomfortable or tatty”.

Style tips for busy mothers

Having children changes our lives in so many ways, not least of which is the time crunch that comes with getting everyone dressed and out the door in the mornings. Personal stylist and wardrobe editor Annabel Hodin says, “Every milestone needs a wardrobe rethink. As a mother, your whole wardrobe must work together proportionally and colourwise so, when hurrying, whatever you pick up works.” Hodin’s wardrobe staples include a sexy tracksuit, a brightly coloured dress and a tailored blazer. Then, she recommends, “Big sunglasses, fluoro orange or pink lipstick, Chanel blue nails, eye liner and a soft cream blusher – and you are ready to go.”