If you’ve been staring at your wardrobe wondering what on earth still works post-baby (or post-body-changes), you’re not alone.
As a mum of two whose body changed dramatically after childbirth, figuring out how to dress around my apron belly became a whole new kind of learning curve. There was no guidebook. Just a lot of trial, error and rushed mornings where I needed to feel confident fast. If you’ve stood in front of your wardrobe thinking, “What even works on this new shape?”, you’re so not alone.
So I started testing. And tweaking. And eventually landed on some style rules that made me feel more like me even on the busiest, messiest mornings.
Keep reading for the exact apron belly outfits, shapewear tips and outfit combos I rely on. You’ll find solutions that are actually wearable, affordable and don’t rely on hiding under oversized jumpers 24/7.
You want a quick fix? This smoothing brief doesn’t fail:
Try this comfy high-waist control short. No rolling, no squashing, just support where you need it.
What is an apron belly?
An apron belly (technically called a pannus) is when the lower belly area folds or hangs over, often after pregnancy, weight loss or C-sections. It’s incredibly common but let’s be honest: the fashion industry still hasn’t caught up with making stylish options that consider this.
READ MORE HERE: How to get rid of an apron belly without surgery
That’s why making up your own apron belly style isn’t about hiding. It’s about choosing outfits that support and show off how your body looks today.
11 apron belly style tips that actually make a difference
These aren’t just Pinterest-worthy ideas. These are the strategies I use day in, day out as a mom on the go.
1. Invest in structured high-rise bottoms
Whether it’s jeans, joggers or tailored trousers, structure is your friend. Look for
A firm waistband that doesn’t roll
Stretch fabric with recovery (so it doesn’t bag out by midday)
A flat front panel for smoother lines
Mom hack. I always size up in jeans, then use a belt or layered top to create shape without tightness.
2. Choose tops with strategic hems
Go for tops that
Hit mid-hip or longer
Are slightly A-line or trapeze shaped
Have asymmetrical hems for movement
Avoid cropped tops unless you’re layering under a longer piece.
3. Use vertical layers to break up the belly area
A lightweight cardigan, sleeveless vest or duster jacket can visually lengthen your frame and distract from belly focus.
Even a chambray shirt left open over a tee can totally shift your silhouette. I do this constantly on school run days.
4. Don’t sleep on wrap styles
Wrap tops and dresses are my secret weapon. Why? They…
Create a defined waist
Flatter the bust and skim over the tummy
Look polished without effort
Perfect for mom meetups or date nights when you want to feel like you’ve tried (even if you haven’t).
5. Opt for thicker, textured fabrics
Thin clingy jersey shows everything. Instead, look for
Ribbed knits
Ponte
Denim
Cotton poplin
Linen blends
These create natural structure that flatters without restricting.
6. Find the right shapewear for your needs
Not every day calls for shapewear but when it does…
This high-waisted brief smooths without suffocating
This cami shaper gives lift and layering potential under button-downs
I avoid full-body options because… bathroom breaks. You get it.
7. Try front-tucking with purpose
Yes, you can tuck your shirt in with an apron belly. Just make it intentional:
Use high-waisted jeans or trousers
Softly front-tuck only the middle of your shirt
Let the sides drape for balance
Adds shape without highlighting the tummy.
8. Draw attention upward
You don’t always want the focus on your midsection, so shift it.
Statement earrings
Bold lipstick
Soft curls or a top knot
Square necklines or boat necks
All subtly guide the eye upward, balancing your outfit.
9. Create curves where you want them
A well-placed belt over a loose dress or layering jacket can bring the shape back in without clinging to your belly. I like
Obi belts over tunics
Fabric belts that sit higher than my natural waist
Belt bags worn slightly diagonally for interest and hands-free functionality.
10. Use prints and texture
A printed blouse or textured knit distracts the eye from areas you’re not keen to highlight.
Florals, stripes (yes, even horizontal!), polka dots, cable knits, crinkle cotton all give your outfit life and movement.
11. Make fit your priority not size
This was a hard lesson for me. Squeezing into your old size doesn’t do you any favours and it rarely looks or feels good.
Now I ask: Does it skim? Can I bend down? Does it stay in place when I lift my arms?
When it fits well, you look more polished. Period.
The apron belly style for ladies who want comfort and confidence
You don’t need to buy a whole new wardrobe. You just need a handful of go-to outfit formulas that:
Work with your body
Feel like you
Move with your day-to-day mum life
Dressing for the park, preschool pickup or an occasional grown-up outing. These apron belly outfit ideas and shapewear tips are about helping you get dressed without stress.
You deserve to feel good in your clothes. Today, just as you are.
Ready to rebuild your style without losing your mind?
Here’s what to do next.
Browse my favourite apron belly-friendly wardrobe finds here: https://www.shopltk.com/explore/Kin_Unplugged
Pin this post to your style board for easy reference
Follow my mommy style board on Pinterest
Or share this article with another mom who needs to hear this today
No body shame. No fluff. Just real-life style tips for real-life moms.
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