Work that bump!

Is it a tent or a dress? Thankfully maternity wear has evolved and changed since the 1980s and expectant mums no longer have to hide underneath masses of material like poor Princess Diana and our own mothers did.

Dressing when pregnant can be challenging – your body shape is constantly changing, you may have put on a few extra kilos where you least expected to and now you have a bulging bump to contend with.

However being pregnant is no excuse for looking frumpy! Expectant mums can still look glamorous and on-trend. Staying stylish and rocking your hot pregnancy body needn’t mean an expensive or complete wardrobe overhaul either.

Has your bump outgrown your favourite pair of jeans? Never fear the belly extender is here. These pieces of fabric have been a Godsend for me and have allowed me to continue to wear my favourite jeans despite my growing belly. Simply throw on a longer top to cover the extender and you’re good to go.

My favourite casual look at the moment is coloured jeans teamed with a long tank top or t-shirt. Cotton On and Dotti stock a variety of colours and styles and are very affordable. There’s no point spending big bucks on the basics when you’re only going to keep growing. I then finish off my look with statement jewellery. Lovisa is cheap and on-trend. I’m there at least once a week. Throw on some comfy ballet flats and you’re good to go.

Dresses are an easy and stylish option for mums-to-be. Maxis not only look fabulous but are so comfortable and can be glammed up with some simple accessorising and strappy sandals. Throw on a cardigan or wrap for those cooler months.

Every pregnant women needs to own at least one pair of leggings. They are so ridiculously comfortable and versatile it’s not funny. However it is important to remember the two golden rules – COVER YOUR BUM AND ABSOLUTELY NO CAMEL TOE. Throw a dress over them, a long loose-fitting top or kaftan just don’t ever break the aforementioned rules – it is never a good look EVER on anyone.

If you’re feeling self-conscious about your changing body loose-fitting tops and dresses will keep you feeling pretty but if you’re anything like me and have a new-found appreciation for your pregnant bod – flaunt it! For maximum impact choose stretchy fabrics when you want to proudly show off your bump.

Some people – my mum – say pregnant women shouldn’t wear heels. To that I say whatever. Granted I wouldn’t wear them every day as they can put a strain on your back however I don’t see anything wrong with wearing them on special occasions. Just make sure it’s a sturdy heel and you can actually walk in them before leaving the house. I usually wear ballet flats, havaianas or my trusty Chuck Taylors. For nights out I’ll wear my Jeffrey Campbells. They may look high but they’re super-comfortable. I also recently bought another pair of Dr Martens but in a pastel pink!

If you’re too tired to hit the shops or like me would prefer to shop from the comfort of your home – jump online. From eBay to Top Shop there is a wide array of maternity wear right at your fingertips.

Where to shop …

asos Maternity

Topshop Maternity

Sweet Lily Maternity

Glow Mama

Queen Bee

What are your pregnancy fashion tips? Where do you shop?

Maternally yours, If-You’ve-Got-It-Flaunt-It

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