Babywearing In Style

A class I was sure to attend at the Babywearing Conference was Babywearing In Style, led by Hotslings creator Kristen DeRocha.

Kristen began by explaining that whenever we are dressing "in style", we should be considering our age, body type, and stage of life we are in. And of course this can be carried over to the styles of baby carriers we choose.

As most of us are busy Moms, a simple, easy-to-care-for styles is best. These days there are a vast array of choices when shopping for baby carriers. Be sure to consider comfort and fit as well as something you'll want to wear in public. Very important: your image is on display!

Now, I know not all of you, dear readers, are that concerned about your sling matching your outfit (and somedays we are just happy to have matching tops and bottoms period. Or just to be out of our pajamas.)

But, for those of us that do get into the whole stylish babywearing thing, here are some really great tips, according to Kristen:

• Your shirt should match your sling. Your sling does not have to be according to your baby's gender. So, it is perfectly OK to wear a pink sling if you have a boy (and if it matches your outfit!)

• Fitted shirts are worn best under slings. They look less bulky and more flattering. Avoid baggy or baby doll shirts if you can while babywearing.
  
  
• Adjust frequently. If you want to look your best, be sure to check in with a mirror once in a while to make sure that your shirt underneath isn't riding up, baring your bra strap, or showing too much skin.
  
  
• Wear your carrier neatly & correctly. Your sling should always be properly worn- not only for safety but also for style. Be sure it's not folded up or bunched in the back, and if you are wearing a mei tai or other carrier with straps, make sure they aren't accentuating unsightly bulges.
  
  
• Stay clean. Spot check that sling for lint and other stains before going out!

If you can, it is recommended to have in your wardrobe at least one solid sling and two or more print, funky, or dressy styles.

If you'll be nursing in your sling, nursing shirts are a great option for staying in style and keeping it together without baring all. Wearing layers such as a tank underneath your top that you can easily lower the neckline to nurse is helpful as well as wearing a belly band to cover your stomach while nursing but still stay looking neat.

For plus-size babywearers, carriers with wide straps like the Baby Ball Overall mei tai and wider wrap slings are a good choice. If you can, wear a shirt over buckled carriers. And if you choose a printed or patterned sling, larger prints are better for larger bodies. Smaller prints tend to make the body look larger.

No matter what your style is, it's most important that you and baby are comfortable and content with your baby carrier. Wear your baby with confidence and ease, and anything will look good on you!

I'll be posting all about babywearing and birth stories in the coming week. You can subscribe to my feed here.

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