Let’s talk about non-baby stuff for a bit. I feel like it’s consumed my whole world right now and I’m almost losing my sense of self.

It’s been months (years?) since I’ve properly bought new clothes as I wait for my post-baby body to recover. While I did go out for some shopping trips and purchased essentials, I never ended up buying anything else. I felt a bit put off seeing my current expanded waistline and residual baby-less bump in the mirror when trying on clothes. I’m also very much looking forward to the end of breastfeeding so I’m no longer being restricted to button-up shirts and easy-boob-access tops.

Going into motherhood, I feel it indicates the start of my next life stage, and should be documented with more classic, timeless styles and age-appropriate clothing. That means all those youthful clubbing dresses and miniskirts should probably be swapped out for midi-lengths and looser fits. I mean, it’s unlikely I’ll be going clubbing anytime soon or need to bust out those sexy Hervé Léger bandage dresses again.

So I’m in the slow process of re-evaluating my wardrobe while Madi goes down for her naps during the day. Even though the idea of a capsule wardrobe is incredibly appealing, I’m finding it truly hard to pare down. Because I genuinely love most of my clothes. Although some were bought with good intentions for my ‘fantasy self/lifestyle’, I find it hard to let go when they still ‘spark joy’. I’m also entirely convinced I’ll wear it once I’ve picked my career back up. In fact, that’s one of the things I’m looking forward to — the ability to get dressed up for work. As comfy as they may be, I’m just honestly so tired of pyjamas, loungewear, and overall casual clothing for the last 3 years.

To start, I’ve been eyeing my workout wear and trying to muster up the energy to exercise more in the hopes of getting my post-baby body back. Or as close as possible to it. You know what they say; the first step is to dress up and show up. So I’ve been spending my days in yoga pants (ok, technically, they’re my running tights). I also now understand why mothers love wearing yoga pants everyday, despite not exercising. It’s because it holds everything — phone, wallet, keys, saggy stomachs…..

I’m so glad I got these Lululemon crops in Time To Sweat 23″. I first got them in blue and loved it so much due to its length and pockets that I went and bought the black as well. Since I almost never buy the same styles in multiple colours, this strongly indicates how much I love them. Sadly, Lululemon has since stopped selling them (massively disappointing), but they can still be found on eBay and other marketplaces.

In the months prior to falling pregnant, I had taken up running and originally bought the Time To Sweat pants for its very functional pockets. What I especially loved was all the non-zippered pockets –  meaning nothing potentially digging into my skin if wearing these pants for floor activities (like yoga). There’s two deep side pockets down each leg which comfortably fits my iPhone 8 Plus (running-tested. Does not fall out!), one massive front pocket in the waistband (with two openings), and my favourite – the back pocket with a fold-down flap that’s perfect to store a card. They’re also high-waisted and covers above my belly button.

Lululemon still sells similar styles (fingers crossed these come back!) but either the side pockets are more curved (not square bottomed) or the back pocket has a zip or full opening. Granted, given how fitted the pants are, your items are probably not going to be bouncing around back there, but I just prefer the security of that extra flap. Funny how small design features can be such a deal-breaker!

Material-wise, the pants are super stretchy and fabric is insanely smooth and fast drying. It’s also cool to the touch and I don’t feel it retains heat at all (great for exercise, not so good wearing it out for a walk in the middle of winter!).

Lululemon sizing is a bit weird. I’m an AU size 8 (ok, maybe pushing 10 now), and the size 6 I got was a snug fit. I almost didn’t fit back into the pants 2 months post-baby (wider hips and thighs), but once it’s on, it’s super comfy and helps flatten my stomach. It’s a no-brainer to style with longer tunics or cardigans, and it’s simple to throw on to take Madi and Bubbles for walks. With the pockets, I don’t even need to bring a bag!

Typical walking outfit above, with Madi in a baby carrier and wearing Matt’s puffer jacket that’s the perfect size to zip around Madi’s legs at the front to keep her warm. Not my best outfit, but whatever’s comfy and easy to throw on when running around with a baby. That’s motherhood for you!

So now that I’m dressed, I just need to muster up the energy and motivation to exercise!