Newborn babies and infants through the first year come with a lot of stuff. I’m always amazed that such tiny people can take up so much space, and create so much clutter. 

Some parents I know- including a good number of our postpartum doula clients- are good at a minimalist lifestyle. They’ve Konmaried their existence, and only what brings them joy or is useful is left. 

I admire that, and if I were a different sort of woman, I’d have a self-care tip for you. I’d tell you  to declutter your life. And that would be wonderful. But that’s not my reality. 

Often, I find myself at a postpartum doula client’s house with multiple things I want to carry, including a baby. 

I’m a busy lady, taking care of other busy ladies. We have shit to do, and I need to carry stuff places quickly. It makes me anxious when a squirmy infant is in my arms, and I can’t hold on to the handrail. Or when I have to make three separate trips to bring pump parts that have finished drying, a fresh paci for the baby, and a snack for a new mother. 

Hence, my belief in pockets. They are a postpartum doula or new mom’s best friend. 

The internet has talked plenty about what an outrage it is that so many women’s clothes are pocketless. And to add insult to injury, I’m often dressing 4 months olds in clothes that have pockets, when so many of mine do not! Whose idea was this? 

The patriarchy man, it’ll get ya. 

Anyway, here’s my solution- when I’m going to a postpartum shift, I don’t leave home without pockets. 

“How on earth do you manage this Sam? You’re not the sort of doula that runs around DC, MD and VA in sweatpants?”

You’re right. I like to look good. And sometimes I throw on a pair of jeans and the pocket problem is solved. But other times, I want to do something else.

I’ve discovered a few simple and stylish outfits that never fail me, or my need to travel like I’m in a caravan. 

1. First and foremost, buy leggings with pockets. They’re a gamechanger. Then you can live in that staple for new mothers and doulas alike: a tunic and leggings. Now, I regret to inform you that I’ve yet to see leggings from Lululemon or Beyond Yoga with pockets. But the good news is that I’ve found a few pairs on Amazon. And Fabletics sells leggings with pockets as well. Score!

2. Consider overalls. I know lots of us haven’t worn them since grade school, when we only buckled one side, but they’re cute, and comfy. And you often have THREE pockets with overalls- one on each side, and one in front. 

Plus, they’re in style these days because the 90s are back y’all! What could be better? 

I got my favorite pair from Torrid in Bowie Towne Center, and a postpartum doula client complimented them (and my ability to carry her phone when her hands were full of baby). Hence this post’s inspiration. 

3. Cozy “grandpa sweaters” and other big knits often have deep pockets. Plus as your temperature fluctuates in the postpartum period, layers help anyway.

4. And finally, I’ve made the decision to boycott casual dresses and skirts without pockets. Sometimes we have to vote with our dollars, and I only want to support designers who know that women get shit done. Fight the power. 

Pockets have improved my life, and I want them to improve yours. Don’t leave home (or bed!) without them.

Learn more about postpartum doula support here!