Best Going Home Outfit for New Moms: Must-Have Picks (2024)

Oh that journey home from the hospital with your new baby is so emotional: exciting and terrifying all at the same time. Choosing the best going home outfit as a new mom is a necessary step in packing your hospital bag. You've just accomplished something extraordinary, and your go home outfit should make you feel confident. If you’re having a hard time deciding what you should wear, here are a few tips to keep in mind when packing your hospital bag.

The best going home outfits for new moms are appropriate for “public-wear” but comfortable enough to accommodate the aches, sores and swelling you'll likely have post-birth. They strike the perfect balance between style and practicality, ensuring new moms feel comfortable and confident as they exit through those hospital doors into their new lives. From soft loungewear sets to maxi dresses, these options are ideal for capturing those precious first photos with your little one and making that special car ride home comfortable.

Whatever you choose, the best going home outfit for new moms after birth is one that makes you feel good.

Factors to Consider When Choosing a Going Home Outfit

There are several key factors to keep in mind when choosing your outfit. Considering these will ensure that your outfit is as practical as it is stylish.

Maternity to Postpartum Body Changes

Your body has just done something miraculous; it's important to respect and accommodate these changes when selecting your outfit. For the first days, it's a good idea to choose loose, comfortable clothing that won't constrict your abdomen, especially if you've had a C-section. You won’t want any waistband rubbing against your incision. A good option are pants with elastic or those with a drawstring waist. Another option to consider is compression leggings, which provide support and compression to your abdomen. These maternity leggings are great post-C-Section because they have a high waist, so they don’t press on your incision area.

Choose Soft Fabrics

When choosing a going home outfit for new moms, it's important to opt for comfortable and breathable fabrics. Materials like cotton, jersey, or bamboo are recommended as they are soft, hypoallergenic, and allow for easy movement. Avoid fabrics that may irritate sensitive skin or cause discomfort.

Weather Considerations

When considering the weather on your estimated day of discharge, it's important to plan ahead. If you're expecting cooler weather, layering can be a great option to keep you warm and cozy, while still ensuring comfort and ease of movement. On the other hand, if you're in a warmer climate, opting for breathable fabrics can help you stay cool and comfortable throughout the journey back.

Ease of Nursing

If you are planning to breastfeed, it is important to think about a ‘going home from the hospital outfit for mom' that not only looks stylish but also allows for easy access for nursing. Consider choosing wrap tops, button-down shirts, or dresses with nursing panels, as these options can provide the utmost comfort and convenience for breastfeeding moms.

Incision Site Tenderness

If you have a c-section, you'll want to be considerate of the placement of waistbands around your incision site, as well as give yourself enough room to allow for a belly band to fit under your clothing.

Footwear: Slip-On Shoes or Sandals

Don't forget footwear when planning for your hospital stay. Opt for slip-on shoes that are easy to put on and take off. As a new mom, your feet may be swollen post-delivery, so choose comfortable shoes or sandals that are easy to slip on and off.

8 of the Best Going Home Outfit Ideas

Lounge Outfits: Leggings, Joggers, Sweatshirts

1. Maternity/Nursing 2-Piece Track Set + Birkenstock clogs
2. Postpartum Leggings with Oversized Maternity Shirt and Zip Up + On Cloud Slip On Sneakers
3. Maternity Joggers with Oversized Maternity Shirt and Oversized Jean Jacket+ Lululemon Slides
4. Lounge Nursing Dress and Oversized Jean Jacket + Velcro Sneakers
5. Maternity Sweater Hoodie and Maternity Sweater Pants + Shearling Lined Clogs

Flowy Dress Outfits to Pair with a Cardigan or Jean Jacket

1. Feeling Groovy Maxi Dress + Big Buckle Birkenstocks
2. Maternity/Nursing Button Down Dress + Velcro Sneakers
3. Red Crinkle Maxi Dress with Oversized Jean Jacket + Velcro Sneakers

Undergarments for New Moms to Wear Home

As a new mom, comfort and support are key when choosing the right undergarments for going home from the hospital. Keep in mind that you may need to purchase additional underwear (again) as your pre-pregnancy and maternity underwear may no longer fit after childbirth.

The Effortless Bra by Bodily for Easy Breastfeeding

This bra's seamless construction and adjustable straps ensure a perfect fit, while the easy-access design makes breastfeeding a breeze. For those first few days at home when comfort is paramount, this nursing bra is an essential part of your going home outfit for mom after birth. This bra is my favorite, and absolutely worth the hype.

Bodily Mesh Underwear

These mesh undies are a postpartum game changer! Offering full coverage and support, they're comfortable enough to wear home from the hospital. Plus, they're disposable, so no need to worry about any messes or stains. See my favorite mesh postpartum underwear here.

Things You Might Also Be Wondering About That Going Home from the Hospital Outfit Choice

Advice for Packing for my Newborn Baby's Coming Home Outfit

When it comes to your baby's going home outfit, comfort and warmth should be the top priorities. Choose soft, breathable fabrics that won't irritate your newborn's sensitive skin and consider layering for warmth, depending on the climate. Bear in mind that newborns can't regulate their body temperature as well as adults can, so it's important to be prepared for a variety of temperatures. Feeling overwhelmed about what to pack? We've got everything you need, from diapers to birthing gowns, so you feel ready for the big day in our hospital bag packing checklist for new moms.

What Size Will I Wear After Giving Birth?

Understanding your postpartum body size can be a bit of a guessing game, as it largely depends on factors like pregnancy weight gain, body composition, and individual recovery. Personally I was so swollen after having Caden. As a general rule, many women find that they fit into maternity clothes right after birth. Understand your changing body has just performed an extraordinary feat! So, when it comes to your going home outfit for mom after birth, prioritize comfort over style. Your body will gradually change in the weeks and months following childbirth, so don't rush to fit into your pre-pregnancy clothes immediately.

Is it Necessary to Purchase a New Outfit Specifically for Going Home?

While it's not necessary to purchase a new outfit specifically for going home, many new moms choose to do so for the special occasion. However, if you have a comfortable outfit that makes you feel good and is suitable for the weather, there's no need to buy something new.

What Should I Wear Once Baby and I are Home?

Think comfortable loungewear: nursing tank tops and joggers, soft sweatshirts and leggings. Pick pieces that won't put pressure on any healing areas like a C-section incision or tender breasts if you plan to breastfeed. Consider soft fabrics like cotton or bamboo that are gentle on the skin and offer breathability. Avoid anything too tight or restrictive as you may still be experiencing some postpartum swelling. See our roundup of my favorite postpartum loungewear here.

As you journey into motherhood, remember, the best going home outfit for mom is one that makes you feel confident, comfortable, and ready for the adventure ahead.

Photo by BüşranurAydın on Pexels

Author