Becoming a mother has given Alex Gonzaga a new perspective on her body, including how she chooses the clothes she wears.
Three months after giving birth, the actress and content creator is adjusting to changes in her figure.
Even her approach to shopping has shifted.
She now understands why her mother, Mommy Pinty, insists on trying on clothes before making a purchase.
Alex shared this experience during an exclusive interview with the Philippine Entertainment Portal (PEP.ph) at the showcase of Natori's Fall 2026 collection, held at Rustan's Makati on November 11, 2026.
While her preference for oversized clothing has remained unchanged, motherhood has introduced a new consideration whenever she gets dressed: how an outfit actually looks and feels on her postpartum body.
ALEX GONZAGA ON SEEING FASHION THROUGH MOMMY PINTY'S EYES
Before becoming a mother, Alex could usually tell whether a piece of clothing would suit her simply by looking at it.
She rarely needed to try anything on. That has changed since giving birth.
"I've been dressing oversized before because my body is slim, so parang for me, I really like oversized dress. So, all my clothes, especially Natori's still fits me kasi now that I gained weight.
"So now, para na akong mommy ko, si Mommy Pinty. I get her na. Every time we pick clothes for her, she should fit it first kasi sabi niya, 'Titignan ko kung magmumukha akong mataba.' Ganun na ako ngayon. May fitting na ako.
"Dati wala. From the eyes pa lang, pipick-up-in ko. Okay na yan. I know na it will fit me. Ngayon kailangan titignan ko muna," she said.
Her comparison to Mommy Pinty captures a familiar experience for women whose bodies change over time.
Shopping can become a different experience when clothes that once fit perfectly require another look in front of the mirror.
For Alex, the adjustment has also made her appreciate having pieces in her wardrobe that continue to fit her.
She specifically mentioned Natori, whose clothes have remained part of her go-to choices throughout her pregnancy and into motherhood.
Her preference for oversized silhouettes has also given her some flexibility as she navigates her changing figure.
ALEX GONZAGA ON HER POSTPARTUM BODY
Adjusting to postpartum changes can bring mixed emotions, especially when a woman starts comparing her current figure with the body she had before pregnancy.
Alex openly acknowledged experiencing this herself.
"Of course, every time I see my son, I'm loving my body. I'm loving the body that I have now because, because of this body, I have my son. So yun na lang.
"But of course, when you're alone, when you try to fit your old clothes and it doesn't fit, they don't fit anymore, you will feel a little bit bad."
At three months postpartum, she is still navigating this new chapter.
Her experience also offers a reminder to women who are adjusting to life after pregnancy: giving themselves time can be part of learning to appreciate their changing bodies.
For Alex, her son has become a source of perspective whenever those moments arise.
Pointing out the need to be kind to herself, she added, "So you just focus na lang sa anak mo. Kasi I'm ano lang naman e, I'm three months postpartum."
WHY ALEX GONZAGA STILL MAKES TIME FOR FASHION AS A NEW MOM
Motherhood has also changed how Alex approaches her personal time.
With a baby to care for, every opportunity to step out requires consideration.
"You know, now that I'm a mom, I really choose where I spend my time. For example, like this event, I went to Natori event because I really love Natori.
"When I was pregnant and up to now, ito yung go-to clothes ko. So when I had the opportunity to meet Ms. Josie Natori, of course I will grab it. So yun.
"When you become a mother, you will really choose when and how you will spend your free time kasi it's a time away from your son. So yun," Alex told PEP.ph.
Her attachment to Natori goes beyond the occasion.
She has worn the brand during pregnancy and continues to turn to its pieces after giving birth.
Meeting designer Josie Natori also made the showcase particularly meaningful for her.
The event presented Natori's Fall 2026 Ready-to-Wear collection, titled "Glamour Beyond a Season."
The collection highlights timeless wardrobe staples through a mix of fluid and structured fabrics, with embroidery and other artisanal details adding character to selected pieces.
Its emphasis on longevity and versatile dressing reflects the appeal of having clothes that remain relevant through changing personal circumstances.
For Alex, that idea has a personal connection.
Her experience with Natori has spanned pregnancy and the early months of motherhood, giving her wardrobe a place in two significant stages of her life.
Motherhood has changed plenty of things for Alex.
Her love for fashion, however, remains something she continues to make room for.