(photo by Alea Moore)

I am struggling this time around because I can't fit into my jeans yet.  At this point, I could with the other two (although I hadn't lost the baby weight).  It's really frustrating to me, so I've been trying to find ways to work around it and feel cute and comfortable while I work on getting back into my old favorites.  I don't really want to invest in new jeans, because I'm hoping I wouldn't need them for very long.  So, here are some items I've found that I'm loving while I'm in this in between - hope it's helpful to some of you!

(1) Firstly, and these aren't pictured above, but if you are still pregnant, I'd recommend getting some maternity jeans in this style.  They are pricier, but they fit super great and work well postpartum.  They have a slightly higher rise, so they sort of, um, hold things in a bit.  They also feel like regular jeans, but with a little bit of give, so I've enjoyed wearing mine without feeling like I'm still wearing maternity pants.  I also love these (really all of this brand with the side panels worked for me and I'm quite a bit curvier on the bottom).

(2) I've really been loving some of Anthropologie's new-ish active wear.  It's comfortable, cute, and I figure I can keep wearing it as I get back into shape.  I love this top, which is great for layering.  It's super soft and the arms are slim fitting (in a flattering way) and the front hem is slightly shorter than the back hem, and it's roomy, but it doesn't swallow you.

(3) This vest is just plain adorable. It's fun, warm, and it's not overly puffy with a surprisingly super flattering fit.

(4) This jacket is my absolute favorite.  It looks way better in person (in my opinion) and I can comfortably zip it up (I have an M) without it being too snug anywhere.  I love the collar detail, and the back hem is a bit longer and covers pretty well.

(5) A pair of fun tennis shoes makes things way more exciting.  I have a similar pair and love them.  I like to pair them with these fun socks so they can't be seen.

(6) I love this tank.  I have it in several colors, and it's great for layering.  It's also great for breastfeeding, as you can wear it under a zip up jacket or top, and you can pull the top down without it losing it's shape.

(7) This tunic is also really great to layer over a tank or wear alone (and it's on sale!).  It's really long, but won't swallow you because it has a leaner shape.

(8) This top is great for maternity and postpartum.  It's super roomy and flowy with sweet details.  I don't exactly pull off the waif-y coachella look, but it's still really fun to wear!

(9) Same for this tunic.

(10) These leggings are just the best.  They are cute and girly, and also fit well.  I always get lots of compliments on them, and they make me feel like I'm not just settling into plain stretchy yoga pants, ha!

(11) This tunic is really great, too (I'm wearing it in the photo at the top).  It's flattering, and really long, so it covers well.  It might be a little tricky for nursing, though, just fyi.

(12) Lastly, I love these pants for when I need to be more pulled together.  They fit well, are forgiving, and flattering.  They are a great in between option, for sure!