Fit, measuring and alterations · 8 October 2026 · 3 min read
Ordering clothes after having a baby: which size?
What size clothes to buy after having a baby? Measure as you are now, order a little at a time and choose forgiving shapes. How to plan made-to-measure pieces.
InspirationMeasure the body you have now
After having a baby, buy for the measurements you have today: not your pre-pregnancy size, and not the size you expect to be soon. Many women find their bust, waist and hips keep shifting for a while, especially while feeding, so the practical plan is to measure close to ordering, buy a few pieces at a time and choose shapes with give built in.
This is a sizing question rather than a style one. If you are feeding, nursing-friendly kurtas covers discreet openings, and maternity kurtas and adjustable fits deals with pregnancy itself.
Which measurements to watch
Take a full set as shown in our size guide, but pay most attention to the ones that move.
- Bust, over the bra you will actually wear with the outfit. If you are feeding, it can vary through the day, so measure at a typical moment rather than the fullest or smallest.
- Underbust and waist, taken relaxed, without holding the tummy in.
- Hips, at the fullest point.
- Upper arm, easy to forget and often changing with the rest.
- Lengths such as shoulder to hem, sleeve and trouser length change little, so a garment you already own can still guide these.
When to measure
Measure as near to ordering as you can, at the same time of day and in the same underwear, and write the date beside the numbers. Production takes 5 to 7 working days from approval and full payment, with shipping time on top, so by the time the parcel arrives your figures may have moved slightly. That is a good reason to favour adjustable, easy shapes for now over close, tailored ones.
If you are unsure, measure twice, a week or so apart. If the numbers are still moving noticeably, order one piece and hold back the rest.
Forgiving shapes to ask for
Some cuts absorb change far better than others. A-line or straight explains the difference between the two main kameez shapes. Worth asking for:
- An A-line or straight kameez with relaxed room at the waist and tummy, instead of a shaped waist.
- A back tie or side ties that can be loosened or drawn in as you change.
- Elastic or drawstring trousers with a soft, wide band sitting where it feels comfortable to you.
- A front opening such as a placket or concealed zip, handy for feeding and for dressing in a hurry.
- Gathers or soft pleats under a yoke, giving room at the bust without bulk at the shoulders.
- Washable fabrics such as lawn or cotton for everyday wear.
Order a little at a time
Rather than a whole season’s wardrobe, start with one or two everyday pieces. Single pieces are welcome, and a kurta with a pair of trousers is a perfectly sensible order. Once your measurements settle, you can order the more fitted or dressy outfits you have been saving for.
With custom stitching the measurements and design details are agreed in writing before cutting, so you can note that you would like a relaxed fit for the time being. Request a quote when you are ready.
Common questions
Should I just buy my pre-pregnancy size and wait?
It is better not to. Clothes that only fit a future body sit unworn, and squeezing into them is uncomfortable. Order a few easy pieces for now and keep the closer fits for later.
Can I order a larger size to be safe?
A bigger size also widens the shoulders and neckline, which often have not changed. Sending your actual measurements and asking for relaxed room at the bust, waist and hips puts the space where you need it.
What if my measurements change after the order is made?
Outfits are made to the measurements agreed in writing, so a later change in your body is not a fault. That is why adjustable details such as ties and drawstrings are worth choosing at this stage.
