Diastasis Recti is the condition in which the two sides of the abdominal muscle walls of your stomach muscles separate and struggle to reconnect – that usually happens during pregnancy (also known as “mommy tummy”). Some moms do not experience Diastasis Recti to the extent that other moms do (please talk to your doctor if you think you are experiencing Diastasis Recti Abdominis), but typically all new moms experience it in the first 6 weeks postpartum.
Photography by Jaedyn Mackenzie Photography.
I’ve found the more and more babies you have, the easier your uterus and stomach muscles expand to accompany your new baby compared to your first. I mean the silver lining is your body is a rockstar and knows exactly what to do! But if you’re a new mom who is experiencing the mommy tummy effect – there is a way to hide it under clothes until you find safe exercises to heal your Diastasis Recti.
There have been so many times between the first year of each of my babies lives, that eating lean proteins and lots of vegetables and exercising 4 times a week are not on my mind at all, especially while breastfeeding. And during that year it’s hard to see the clothes I want to wear and yet they don’t fit because of my loosened abdominals. While I will always love my body and love what my body can do, there are times when you have a work party or formal event that beats you down a little because nothing fits the way it used to.
So, how do I survive that time during postpartum that I need to accept my mommy tummy?
Here are my 3 tips on how to hide a postpartum tummy:
High waist jeans (and bottoms) are your BFF | If you don’t own a pair of high waist jeans, your mind is about to be blown! And then if you’re feeling bold tucking your shirt into your jeans will give make your mommy tummy look smaller in comparison. Often I love combining a pair of high waist jeans (that has a little stretch) with a flow-y t-shirt or oversized sweater. But like I mentioned in the beginning any high waisted bottoms will help hide your mommy tummy – as you can see above I paired this high waist tulle skirt. The narrow waist of the tulle skirt accentuates the part of my body I want you to focus on, and the flared out tulle hides the rest.
Flow-y dresses with a structured top (empire or swing style) are a must | Any dresses with a slightly defined waist or bust that flows down after will make you feel amazing and look amazing. Trust me, you want to avoid shift dresses or body-con dresses postpartum, especially if you’re already feeling self conscious. They will show off everything you’re trying to hide!
Mixing patterns and textures will elevate your mom style | You may not feel like you need a style overhaul, but your mom style will look so much more chic if you experiment with power clashing and mixing textures together. Smaller patterns, like polka dots, are cute and flattering. As well as longer cardigans or coats will elongate your body and make your tummy the least of your worries. You don’t need to stick to all black clothes to hide your mommy tummy. Plus, there’s nothing wrong with trying new things – maybe you’ll find a new style you like!
I hope this helped any moms that are feeling overwhelmed by their new bodies. We’ve all been there – whether we treat it with a diet, exercise, or a procedure – and you’re not alone in this!
If you like this post, check out my Flattering, Green Dresses For All Stages Of Motherhood post before you go!
Make sure to pin this post on Pinterest so you can come back to it later!
