Reader Question: What To Wear To A Baptism?

Reader Question:

Hello,
I found your blog via Shana’s sister, Scotti, and I must say I love it!  We recently just had a baby boy and are having a baptism in May. I would like to wear something classic, understated and still look amazing after getting my body back. Could you possibly do a piece on what to wear for your baby’s baptism?
I’m considering all options but am steering more towards a sheath dress, pencil skirt, or the like. My one requirement is that it must be below the knee, even just slightly.

Thanks!
Nell

Answer:

Thanks for writing, Nell!  So glad Scotti recommended us!

Your question is a good one – baptisms are tricky things.  Not only are you are in a church (which would imply the need for a fairly conservative look), but baptisms are typically considered serious events.  Joyful, but serious.  So your instincts are right on:  something below the knee, something without too much arm/shoulder exposure, something classic and understated (but still feminine), and something that is flattering to new moms — these are all requirements of a good baptism look.

I’ve found that the easiest way to come up with an appropriate but cute baptism look is to simply start with a work outfit, and soften it up with a bit of color and/or accessories.  Here are a few ideas:

Pencil Skirt + Pretty Sleeved Top

I love pencil skirts.  They are both classic and sexy, but still baptism-appropriate.  They can also be flattering for new moms.  If a post-baby belly is a concern, try a higher-waisted style.  Most poochy stomachs can be zipped right up into them. (Spanx help too, if you can stand them).

With higher-waisted styles, I prefer to pair them with a silky top that tucks in (see picture above left).  Most silky tops work – you can find one to cover thicker arms, one with buttons for nursing, one with a slightly lower v-neck to flatter a larger chest, etc.  NOTE:  The higher-waist style is tougher to pull off if you are very short-waisted.

For a trendier look, try pairing your pencil skirt with a boxy, cropped silk shirt.  Layer this over a simple cami (or nursing tank) and pair with funky wedges.

To illustrate:

Baptism Outfit: Pencil Skirt by aintnomomjeans featuring Nine West shoes

In the grouping above, I’d tuck the purple silk shirt into the skirt and pair with fun, girly pumps.  The printed top, however, I’d layer over a black cami and pair with some serious wedges.  If your church is very conservative, swap the wedges out for black pumps.

Tip:  The key to a pencil skirt is to keep your top either fitted or short.  Fitted tops and pencils skirts can be hard for new moms to pull off, so my recommendation is to go with a shorter top.  And by short, I mean that the hemline of your top should be no longer than then right above the hipbone.  A long, flowy top is great with shorter hemlines, but the proportions are off when paired with a long, slim pencil skirt.

Shift Dress + Belted Cardigan

Baptism- Shift Dress and Cardi by aintnomomjeans featuring J Crew