21 Girlboss-Approved Work-from-Home Style Essentials

Working from home is not an excuse to let your stylish sensibilities fall by the wayside. Not on our watch, anyway. While working within the confines of an at-home office may not inspire you to change out of your donut-printed PJs and fuzzy slippers, boy is it a game-changer when you do. You know the age-old phrase “dress for success?” Yeah, that totally applies to all you boss ladies, bloggers and entrepreneurs who have the option to work from virtually anywhere — be it your back porch or that cute pastry shop around the corner. While the occasional sluggish day is bound to go down, on most days, a little extra time spent coordinating your #OOTD will make you look — and feel — WAY more productive. We’ve compiled 21 effortlessly chic style essentials that will take you from responding to emails to dashing across town for a meeting like that. Proceed to add everything to your lazy girl capsule wardrobe today.

1. Silence + Noise Dax Dolman Sweatshirt Mini Dress ($59): Introducing the sun-washed sweatshirt dress you’ll never want to take off — like, ever. Pair this snuggly fleece mini with a denim jacket and white tennies for an I-just-woke-up-like-this look that doubles for work and play.

2. Free People Pop Pop Popper Jogger ($88): Swap out the frumpy sweats for a pair of these sleek striped joggers that bring the swagger. Instead of pairing them with a matching track jacket or hoodie, switch things up with a bodysuit and a casual-cool parka for an off-duty getup that slays around the clock. Chunky block heels are non-negotiable for a blogger luncheon or networking event with industry insiders.

3. Ban.do Twist Scarf in Metallic Gold ($20): If there was ever a time to embrace messy bed head, it’s on a mundane Monday spent playing catch-up with day-to-day tasks. Simply toss your hair into a top knot and add this lamé twist scarf to your ‘do for a glam look that can be styled with seconds to spare. Before venturing out for errands, a coat of mascara and swipe of your favorite lip gloss will more than suffice.

4. Madewell C!ao Graphic Sweatshirt ($70): For “wear a sweatshirt to work day” (AKA every day for you), this cheeky pullover with French-girl sophistication is as non-fussy as it gets. Throw it on with white jeans and suede ankle booties for a low-key work sesh with evening plans to follow.

5. YSTR Anais Dress ($198): If adulting is wearing a grown-up bib dress to “work,” then you can count us in. Streamline your morning routine with this charming below-the-knee number that puts black slacks and dress shirts to shame. Layer it over a tissue-thin tee for a stay-at-home chic look that inspires you to do less.

6. Saturday/Sunday Catrinna Ikat Jumpsuit ($158): Make every day #SundayFunday with this one-and-done Ikat jumpsuit that’s giving us ALL the ‘70s feels. You know you’ve struck gold when your full-time gig allows you to wear whatever you want, whenever you want. This wardrobe workhorse not only checks all the boxes (chic, comfortable and sophisticated), but it looks to-die-for with backless mules and tousled waves too.

7. Maslo Chock a Block Necklace ($52): It’s the small accents that make you look as though you’ve actually taken the time to get dressed… when in reality, you just threw this sculptural curved bar necklace by Maslo on alongside a nubby knit sweater as an afterthought. Shhh, we won’t tell.

8. Out from Under Deep Plunge Bodysuit ($39): If there’s one wardrobe staple you’ll reach for on repeat, it’s a wear-everywhere neck-plunging bodysuit that plays well with mom jeans, denim-button front skirts — you name it. It’s the pared-down basic you didn’t know you needed, but now can’t live without. *Adds to cart.*

9. Shashi Noa Ear Climbers ($55): In lieu of overly chunky bangles and cocktail rings that’ll inevitably get in your way anyway, try a pair of these sparkly cubic zirconia ear climbers that provide for a subtle statement. They’ll look DDG no matter what you’re wearing (even jeans and a tee) and give you a reason to power through the work week.

10. Scotch & Soda Mini-Embroidered Shirt ($115): Working from home means playing by your own rules. Case in point: Update your old boardroom button-downs with this whimsical mini-embroidered shirt — we spy a fox’s head, round sunnies and a guitar! — that shows you don’t take yourself too seriously. The relaxed, borrowed-from-the-boys fit can be teamed with leggings and riding boots for an early fall look.

11. Hobes The Metallic Hobe ($149): Add some much-needed zing to your on-duty wardrobe with these fierce handmade leather flats that were made for racking up the steps. Even if you’re not on your toes all day per se — well, besides sprinting from one coffee shop to the next — they’ll come in handy during unofficial business trips and Fridays spent playing hooky.

12. Madewell Striped Lace-Up Sweater ($98): Oh, this old thing? When the work piles up beyond the work week, you need a lace-up sweater with this much panache. Not only is it the quintessential post-Labor Day layering piece for dodging in and out of your office (coffee breaks! meetings across town!), but it’ll be the first thing you reach for when a case of the outfit blahs hits.

13. Jack + G Ear Nut Earrings ($66): There’s something ridiculously appealing about a delicate single stud earring that takes any outfit from zero to 100. Embrace the minimal jewelry trend with this 14K gold piece that’s perfect for a last-ditch effort to get some work done at your favorite coffee shop. Throw an easy-breezy shirt dress and ankle boots into the mix for a look that says trying, but not trying too hard.

14. Topshop Temp Patches Slip-on Shoes ($44): Sensible does not have to equate to snoozy: These rad denim patchwork slip-ons will serve as a reminder to roll with the punches and not take yourself so seriously. Team them with distressed black jeans and a bomber jacket for a look that’s a far cry from corporate.

15. M.I.H. Jeans Chambray Jumpsuit ($395): THIS is how to werk it at work. A throw-on-and-go chambray jumpsuit is for the visionary with a sched that’s constantly changing (think: conference calls one day and west-coast meetings the next). Channel an understated-cool vibe with this slouchy one-piece wonder that requires zero effort. If you plan on leaving the house, all it takes is a colorful scarf or a free-wheelin’ crossbody bag in a punchy hue and you’re there.

16. Topshop ’90s Sweater and Jogger by Escapology ($68): Are you even your own boss if you don’t own at least one ‘90s-style sweater and jogger set in Glossier pink? A major upgrade from the ugly-chic velour Juicy tracksuits that ruled the early ‘00s, this throwback staple will give you a reason to dial things down every now and then. BTW, old-school Stan Smiths are obligatory.

17. Modern Citizen Jordin Tie-Waist Tapered Trouser ($72): Calling all busy girls! These tailored trousers are fit to flatter for an afternoon of out-of-office meetings. The paper bag-waist, pleating and airy material usher in a carefree ‘tude that calls for a silk cami and ankle-strap steppers.

18. Topshop Petite Wrap Playsuit ($90): Slay, girl, slay. This slinky army green wrap-front playsuit not only reads girl-boss-in-training, but it exudes confidence with its around-the-clock appeal. Style it for the daytime with a dainty necklace and huarache sandals before transitioning it for after-hours with an oversized clutch and power pumps.

19. Zara Cropped Glossy Sweatshirt ($26): It’s a good thing athleisure is having a moment — this cropped glossy sweatshirt, featuring a hood and crossover back, is making all our lazy-girl dreams come true. Reach for it the next time you’re feeling burned out for a little zen yoga sesh in the comfort of your own home. Plus, it’ll make you look active AF when running errands — even if you’ve just been slaving away at a desk all day.

20. & Other Stories Power Puff Sweater ($65): Who runs this world? The boss babe sporting a gray sweatshirt with streamlined leather leggings wins our vote. We can’t explain it, but there’s something magical about a boxy pullover that’s equal parts comfortable and chic. Toss this hero piece on alongside monochromatic kicks and a baseball cap for a work-at-home uniform that would do Gigi Hadid proud.

21. Tobi Pull One Over Cardigan ($98): You’ve traded in frozen cubicles for early mornings spent working from the comfort of your own bed or futon — and now all that’s missing is a snuggie-like pullover to maximize your productivity even when a nap is higher up on your priority list. Don’t hesitate to bundle up in this striped blanket-turned-cardigan in disguise that will keep you toasty at all times.

What are your go-to style essentials for working from home? Follow us on Pinterest for boss lady-approved style inspo!

Brit + Co may at times use affiliate links to promote products sold by others, but always offers genuine editorial recommendations.

Making your space feel like you is an essential part to your daily routine, whether that's at home or in your office. The places where you spend most of your day can have a huge impact on your everyday mood and life, even if you work in a cubicle. I'm a huge advocate for decorating any space, so I thought I'd share some of my favorite decor ideas from Amazon to help inject a little sunshine and personality into your everyday work life. Whether you work in an office, a tiny corner cubicle, or at home (like me), I've got just the items for you!

Amazon

Seenlast Lamp + Candle Warmer

I was gifted a lamp/candle warmer last year, and have been pleasantly surprised by how much I use it, and how much it transforms your space. It does a good job and making your desk feel that much more cozy, and at home. This essential will help make you feel at home even miles away at work.

Amazon

Auelife Fall Candle Set

A fall candle needs to be lit at all times for me to have complete zen. If a fall-scented candle is lit, I can truly get through any day no matter how stressful. This one is a 4 pack, so you can enjoy all the fun scents while they also act as a cute, decor piece!

Amazon

XXXFLOWER Plant Terrarium

Having real plants in your office can be a great step towards making your office feel more like home — or even cozying up your WFH setup — and have a more grounding energy. This may seem silly, but whenever I have plants or flowers around me, it just makes me feel more centered and at peace. So, I would highly recommend this cute terrarium as a decor piece on your desk to help you center yourself throughout the day!

Amazon

MDOZQ Memo Board for Notes

One thing I always keep nearby when I'm working? A memo board of some kind to display notes from my husband, loved ones, or friends. This is another great way to have peaceful reminders if you ever get stressed during an intense work day!

Amazon

Gannyfer Small Desk Organizer

A desk organizer does a great hob at categorizing some of your daily-use items while making them look more presentable at the same time. This one is one of my faves with home you can style it with all your most prized possessions. Add in your favorite books, knick knacks, and pictures for injecting some personality into your space!

Amazon

AZLTC Book Vase

This vase is so practical and so adorable! Like I mentioned before, having real flowers or plants are a huge energy shift in your space, and this vase is insanely cute! I love how it livens up your space, while looking chic doing it! Grab this essential on Amazon for only $7... I repeat: $7! Such a steal.

Amazon

Kootop Wireless Keyboard

Is anyone else on ASMR keyboard Tiktok?! Or is that just me... Because these click clack keyboards are actually my most recent obsession. I feel like they just help to make typing away at your computer seem fun. Plus, it looks oh-so-cute! This one's going home with me!

Amazon

Jetec Photo Display

As you can tell from my note display tendencies, I'm a severely sentimental person, so I not only have notes of my loved ones, but also photos! In every office, cubicle, or desk I've ever had, there's always been a photo display of polaroids for those that I like to remind myself of on a daily basis! Another simple edition that will make all the difference to your space. Plus, it fills a lot of space and can make your office seem more full.

Amazon

SKYDUE 360 Degree Rotating Desk Organizer

This desk has so many pros to it:

  • It is a great organizer to divide up pens, markers, and anything you need.
  • It rotates for easy access.
  • It looks super cute on your desk.
  • AND it's under $10.
What more could you want?!

Amazon

Lamicall Green Phone Stand

If you're someone like me, and needs to have your phone on standby for any various reasons like making calls, answers emails, or simply watching clips for work, then this phone stand is a life saver! It can charge your phone, all while sitting up right for easy viewing access. I like to have this by my computer whenever I'm working!

Subscribe to our newsletter for more picks!

Brit + Co may at times use affiliate links to promote products sold by others, but always offers genuine editorial recommendations.

If there's one thing about Gilmore Girls fans you can count on, it's their passion. They love the quirky one liners, memorable moments, and are usually either Team Jess or Team Logan (sorry Dean...). Give any Gilmore Girls lover in your life the chance to transport themselves to Stars Hollow this holiday season — without having to make the trek to Washington, Connecticut or the Warner Bros. stage in Hollywood. These Gilmore Girls gift ideas are fun, thoughtful, and very cozy, which are also three hallmarks of the series itself! From a coffee mug that Luke Danes would approve of to the perfect gifts for Taylor Swift fans, this Gilmore Girlsgift guide will make you say "Oy with the poodles already!"

Keep reading for 24 Gilmore Girls-themed gift ideas for 2024.

Amazon

The Third Gilmore Girl: A Memoir

Get all the behind the scenes info you could ever dream of when you pick up Kelly Bishop's new memoir!

Hot Topic

Loungefly Gilmore Girls Icons Mini Backpack

I was absolutely gagged the first time I saw this backpack. Tiny pizza slices, both the Luke's Diner and Chilton logos, AND the gazebo? I need this, like, right now.

Sunday Best

Sunday Best Peggy Sweater

Consider this white cable knit sweaterthe Rory Gilmore sweater for the season. I cannot stop wearing mine. It's super soft and the perfect medium weight (meaning you won't be cold but you also won't feel weighed down). It's also not itchy at all. I love wearing it with jeans, or tucked into trousers or a skirt.

Amazon

Cotton Baseball Hat

For a more subtle nod to the fashion on the show, a blue baseball cap gives major Luke Danes vibes without having to walk around wearing Gilmore Girls merchandise. Wear it with a crewneck and oversized coat now (hello '90s "It" girl!) and a tee shirt come spring.

Book of the Month

Book of the Month

Channel your inner Rory with the Book of the Month subscription service. The cool part about someone else picking out the books is that you'll find titles — and authors — you didn't even know to look for.

Nordstrom

Espresso Martini Statement Earrings

It wouldn't be an episode of Gilmore Girls without a cup of coffee, or a martini at one of Richard and Emily's Friday night dinners. Combine the two iconic beverages with these statement earrings! They're bold, they're quirky, and they'll be the talk of all your holiday parties.

Etsy

Stars Hollow "Autumn Festival" Travel Poster

Nothing screams Stars Hollow like a festival, and this autumnal poster celebrates the best parts of small town life. Whether you choose to display it in a gallery wall or on a bookshelf, you'll feel like you're coming home every time you look at it.

Etsy

Luke's Diner Mug

With a Luke's Diner mug, you can pretend you really are in Stars Hollow. Bonus points if you're also having a big stack of pancakes!

Etsy

Gilmore Iced Coffee Glass Cup

If you're more of an iced coffee fan, even in the winter (I wonder what Luke would have to say about that?), grab a glass with a super cute design. Not only do I love that Rory and Lorelai are featured in the design, but the color palette is beautiful, too!

Maisonette

Gina White Poodle

Getting your little into the Gilmore Girls spirit? They definitely need a lovable stuffed dog. Again I say, "Oy with the poodles already!"

Handker Bandanas

Colorful Bandana

For another low-key nod to the ultimate BFF's, grab a bandana in your favorite color (like this one that uses untreated, non-GMO cotton!). In true Y2K fashion, Sookie and Lorelai wear bandanas throughout the show, so this is a super fun way to incorporate their style into your own closet this winter.

Etsy

Dragonfly Necklace

A delicate dragonfly necklace is a beautiful layering piece that will add summer cheer to the dreariest of winter days and remind you of Dragonfly Inn at the same time. The fact that dragonflies represent new beginnings is just the cherry on top.

Etsy

Gilmore Girl Eras Shirt

Have you been binging Gilmore Girls during the day and watching Eras Tour TikTok livestreams at night? This T-shirt has your name written all over it. My personal favorite detail is that Kirk is in the debut square.

Etsy

Stars Hollow Christmas Festival Sweatshirt

There's nothing like layering a turtleneck, a crewneck, and a bunch of jewelry for a trip to your corner coffee shop, so swap your go-to crewneck for this festive Stars Hollow one! The gazebo is instantly recognizable for Gilmore Girls fans and just looking at the design makes me want to say, "I smell snow."

Walmart

Gilmore Girls: Complete Series Collection

One of my favorite Christmas presents in recent years was the full Gilmore Girls DVD set. This 42-disc DVD set has every single episode and even more hours of unaired clips, behind the scenes features, and episode commentaries. I'm geeking out just thinking about it.

Amazon

Gilmore Girls: The Official Cookbook

Gilmore Girls recipes are always delicious, and always pretty easy (after all, Lorelai and Rory basically only eat takeout and Luke's!). The official cookbook will let you put your own spin on the food you seen onscreen, and then you can have a truly meta experience by eating your meal while you watch the Gilmores eat theirs.

Amazon

Gilmore Girls: Trivia Deck and Episode Guide

Tried-and-true Gilmore Girls fans will love diving into this trivia book. Because this game (which features 200 questions) has an 88-page episode guide and goes through every. Single. Episode. Worth it!

Amazon

Gilmore Girls: At Home in Stars Hollow

TBH, I think kids books are great for book lovers of any age. The art and simple storytelling really get my creative juices flowing. At Home In Stars Hollow will make you (or a family member or friend) love Gilmore Girls in a whole new way!

Cande Craft Company

Stars Hollow Scented Candle

This all-natural soy candle has every scent a Gilmore Girls fan will love: coffee, sweet cream, and vanilla. It's cozy and balances sweet and bitter in a really intoxicating way.

Amazon

Lorelai and Rory Gilmore Plush

Okay, I'll be honest. I want these plushes for myself! The design is a hilarious nod to the season one episode "The Lorelais' First Day At Chilton" and even features a tiny coffee mug and tiny book!

Rock Em Socks

Gilmore Girls Socks

Now that we're in knee-high boot season (which I FINALLY bought), I like to wear super fun, colorful, and chaotic socks. Grab a pack of Gilmore Girls socks to take some Stars Hollow magic with you no matter where you go.

Etsy

Gilmore Girls Themed Blind Date with a Book

For this bookish blind date, you'll receive a Rory-themed read, a tea bag, a bookmark, and stickers. You really can't go wrong.

Favorite Child

Stars Hollow Books Tote Bag

Carrying your favorite books in a tote bag with the Stars Hollow Books logo feels like it's meant to be.

Amazon

Have I Told You This Already?: Stories I Don't Want to Forget to Remember

Lauren Graham's collection of essays will give you a glimpse behind the curtain as she offers thoughtful stories about life, aging, and the industry.

Which gifts from this Gilmore Girls gift guide will you be buying for your friends (or yourself)? Let us know in the comments!

Brit + Co may at times use affiliate links to promote products sold by others, but always offers genuine editorial recommendations.

This post has been updated.

If the four walls of your home are a little closer together than you'd like, wall desks might be just what you need to get the most out of your home office or workspace. Whether you're routinely working from home or just need a place to set down a book, these 21 wall-mounted desks are the answer you've been looking for. Be sure to have some workspace organization tricks up your sleeve and seek creative solutions for extra space saving, like mounting floating shelves nearby. Added bonus: Most of these could be positioned at the proper height to make your very own standing desk!

Nathan James Theo 2-Shelf Industrial Wall Mount Ladder Desk

Bring an industrial vibe to your bedroom or office with this wall mount ladder desk by Nathan Desk. It's sleek and minimal, making it a complementary addition to your space.

Grindstone Drop Down Secretary Desk

When it’s time to get to work or scrapbook, just unlatch the surface of this rustic desk and tackle whatever’s on today’s to-do list. Then close up shop to hide the mess.

Costway Wall Mounted Computer Convertible Floating Desk

his ergonomic desk swings into action to create a temporary lightweight desk space, soon to be the epicenter for epic doodling.

Floating Wall Desk

Ebern Designs Raquon Floating Desk

Wall mounted desks can be cute — just look at this floating desk you can get from Wayfair! It's compact and features a few mini shelves so you can store all of your office essentials!

Wall Mounted Desk

Turn a wooden countertop into a desk with modern angular supports. Keep the contrast between industrial and all-natural by using countertops with natural woodgrain and clean, white wall bracers. (via Simplified Building Concepts)

EcoDec Wall Mounted Makeup Vanity Desk

You can use wall mounted desks as a space to get work done or you can use it to do your makeup!

Prepac Floating Wall Mounted Desk

The office pod of the future! This wall-mounted unit’s curved side panels act as blinders preventing Peeping Toms from invading your privacy.

Latitude Run Pattyann Floating Desk

If you want a cute wall mounted desk and a floating bookshelf, look no further than Latitude Run's chic duo! The bookshelf has two opaque doors that'll add a bit of flair to your workspace and the desk will keep things as minimal as possible.

Southern Enterprises Fold-Out Convertible Desk

SEI Convertible Desk

Surprise! This unassuming hinged cabinet from Amazon unfolds into a full table and organization space. It would work wonders to create an eating surface in a small kitchen too.

DIY Standing Desk

DIY Standing Desk

This DIY standing desk uses a basic white painted board to camouflage unsightly computer cords on their way to the power outlets. If you're looking for a more colorful solution, try wrapping them with neon! (via Shelterness)

Let us know your go-to wall mounted desk on Twitter and subscribe toour email newsletter for the latest home content from B+C!

Brit + Co may at times use affiliate links to promote products sold by others, but always offers genuine editorial recommendations.

This post has been updated with additional reporting by Jasmine Williams.

Lead image via Wayfair.

Angelina Jolie has always been mother — but she's also a literal mother to six kids whom she clearly cares about fiercely. Since she first adopted Zahara, Maddox, and Pax to giving birth to Vivienne and Knox, it's always been evident that her children are her entire world. While she rarely talks about her children (especially given her highly contested divorce at the moment), Angelina shared a little slice of her feelings on motherhood, insights on her children, and more with Good Morning America.

Here's what Angelina Jolie had to say about her kids — including which one of them is the most private!

www.youtube.com

- YouTube

Angelina opened up about her feelings for her family while chatting about her new movie Maria with Good Morning Americaon November 21, 2024. Host Michael Strahan asked Angie about if there's anything she loves as much as her character loves singing, and she replied that it's her "motherhood."

"It’s my happiness. You can take everything else away from me," she said. "I could — nothing else matters."

When asked about her sons' involvement in Maria, Angelina explained that despite their involvement behind the scenes, they're very uninterested in a life in the spotlight. She said, "None of my children want to be in front of the camera. They're quite private."

Angelina elaborated, "Shiloh's extremely private. They weren't born with privacy, so I hope they can have that."

This interview comes after Angelina and Knox attended the Governor's Awards with her on November 18, 2024. His rare appearance shocked so many — including Brad. Daily Mail reported that Pitt found the timing "suspicious."

The source said, "'She is trying to get under his skin after his recent win and using Knox to do so is odd. Knox wants nothing to do with Hollywood and has no communication with Brad."

Despite the weirdness, the source also said, "He [Brad] believes that, in time, his children will come back into his life."

How many kids does Angelina Jolie have?

Angelina Jolie has six children. She adopted Zahara, Maddox, and Pax, and later gave birth to Vivienne and Shiloh. She shares her children with Brad Pitt, most of whom aren't on good terms with him at the moment.

Looking for more celebrity news? Be sure to follow us on Facebook so you never miss a thing!

Just how expensive is it to have a baby in 2024? One woman sharing her experience on social media has sparked a much-needed conversation about financial transparency when it comes to starting (or growing) a family.

Josephine Anderson, who posted a video on her Instagram @fosterthevalley, outlined the costs of her uncomplicated vaginal birth, and TBH, it was shocking.

The financial breakdown of her experience (with Cigna for insurance):

  • Routine office visits (including 2 ultrasounds): $1,266
  • Labs: $3,440.81
  • NIPT genetic testing: $15,319.36
  • Anatomy scan: $1,270
  • RhoGam: $360
  • Hospital for mom: $23,722.10
  • Hospital for baby: $7,402.80
  • OBGYN for delivery: $5,000
  • Epidural: $5,720
  • Breastfeeding support: $2,589.78
  • Pediatrician: $209
That all racks up to a whopping total of $66,299.85. After insurance was factored in (her deductible was $3,000 while her max out-of-pocket for in-network expenses was $11,000), the total cost for her uncomplicated vaginal birth was $4,788.98. Forbes Advisor reports the average cost of having a baby in 2024 is $2,854.

Instagram

Josephine’s video warranted thousands of comments, most of which were appalled by the costs of her experience:

“This needs to be shared in SexEd classes,” one commenter wrote.

“The US medical system is BROKEN,” another said.

“And people are still confused why more women are choosing to remain child free… we literally can’t afford it,” another user commented.

Mart Production / PEXELS

Brit + Co spoke with Wendy Colson RN, IBCLC and CEO/Founder of BOOBIE Superfoods to gauge if Josephine’s costs were typical for the care she received. Colson has significant insight into how insurance works not only from an employer’s perspective, but from personal experience as a patient with breast cancer.

“The $4,788.98 net amount she mentions is realistic given that her deductible was $3,000. If she had chosen a plan with a $1,000 deductible – which is a common ceiling for good coverage – the same scenario would have cost her around $2,789,” Colson said. “The video highlights the importance of understanding what you're getting with an insurance plan, especially when you anticipate major life events like childbirth.”

Sarah Chai / PEXELS

Colson primarily attributes unanticipated costs for medical care (like in Josephine’s case) to patients that choose their insurance plans with, well, no real plan.

“Many [people] opt for the [plan] with the lowest paycheck deductions without fully evaluating the benefits,” Colson said.

There’s often a tradeoff between paying less per paycheck and receiving your desired benefits: for example, if you elect to contribute less money towards your insurance per paycheck, you may end up paying more out of pocket for things like doctor’s office visits and prescriptions.

“Making an informed choice is key to saving money in the long run,” Colson continued. “In short, it's crucial to consider both the immediate costs (like paycheck deductions) and the potential future costs (like deductibles and copays) when choosing an insurance plan.”

Anna Shvets / PEXELS

Another major cost Josephine mentions in her video was 12 weeks of unpaid maternity leave, which cost her a total of $18,000 (in lost income).

Per the passing of the Family and Medical Leave Act (FMLA) in 1993, moms have a legal right to up to 12 weeks of unpaid maternity leave. The U.S. Department of Labor notes that the act was designed to help employees balance their work and family responsibilities, accommodate the legitimate interests of employers, and promote equal employment opportunity for men and women.

Matilda Wormwood / PEXELS

It all sounds great until you realize the time off is indeed unpaid, which doesn't really aid in the amount of money parents end up owing after all is said and done in the pregnancy and childbirth processes.

Only 13 states plus the District of Columbia offer paid maternity leave. When you compare the United States’ laws to that of other industrialized nations, they don’t exactly measure up.

Colson says Sweden’s maternity leave policy is “one of the most generous,” offering 390 days of paid parental leave (shared between parents) and 80% of wages covered for a significant portion of the leave. In Germany, mothers are entitled to 14 weeks of maternity leave plus a tax-free, income-based allowance straight from their insurance provider.

Jonathan Borba / PEXELS

Though it’s likely that US laws will never be that generous in terms of paid maternity leave, there are a few things you can do to make the blow of medical costs hurt a little less, says Colson.

“My advice is to be your own advocate,” she says. “If you’re planning to have a baby, start by understanding what your state provides in terms of paid leave to avoid surprises after delivery.”

To keep the cost of having your baby (if you’re planning to have one) transparent and free of surprises, Colson recommends:

  • Asking your physician’s office for a detailed breakdown of insurance billing codes, including:
    • Office visits
    • Lab work
    • Epidural (and the anesthesiologist’s separate fee)
    • Hospital admissions
    • Specialist consultations during admission
    • Optional procedures like circumcision, if desired
  • Email the insurance billing codes to your insurance provider, who can help calculate your out-of-pocket costs and deductible

“Having a baby is priceless,” Colson says. “By planning ahead – understanding your insurance options, healthcare costs, and available benefits – you can ensure peace of mind and focus on what truly matters: your growing family.”

Subscribe to our newsletter for more stories!