There’s never been a better time to be expecting.
Fashion is flexible and open to interpretation, and this is particularly
evident with pregnancy style. Lately, the universe stepped up to the plate,
producing a bumper crop of pregnant, celebrity role models to inspire us. From
the royals of Europe to the royals of the red carpet, we had England’s’ Duchess
of Cambridge, Rock n’ Roll’s Gwen Stefani and Hollywood’s’ Halle Berry to show
us just how dazzling pregnancy could be.
And it’s a great time of year to be
dressing the baby bump – All the styles that flatter and fit a curvy,
voluptuous figure are well-suited for the colder seasons. The graceful, flowing
lines of a full length maxi-dress will suit you as never before. You can do
drama, you can do classic, and you can embrace longer or shorter. Think edgy –
dark wash skinny maternity jeans with a deeply theatrical creamy shirt. Add
slouchy boots and some eye-catching jewelry for a charmingly boho look. Not
dressy enough? Lose the boots and add some heels and, if provided height give
you the wobblies, then slip on a pair of trendy flats in their place!
Keeping in mind that dark colors are slimming,
black maternity skinnies with a black T and an evening blazer left unbuttoned
are a sophisticated start. Opt to wear longer, flower shirts that can
effortlessly conceal your pants’ elastic or the presence of a baby belly band
that will help keep your unbuckled jeans held up. Remember that the goal of accessories is to
lengthen your form, so choose necklaces, scarves and earrings that stretch
vertically. Choose attention-grabbing jewelry that will draw attention up to your cleavage and face and away
from the baby bump, and steer clear of small, dainty jewelry that would get
visually overlooked and make you appear bigger. Do you fancy fitted? Empire
waistlines emphasize your décolletage by hugging the bust while gently flaring
over your curves. Or would you rather channel a Grecian goddess? Most knit
fabrics including jersey fold and drape superbly, enhancing curves while cascading
gracefully over those parts you’d rather hide.
The A-line dress ending just above the knee
is a dressy classic. The coat-dress is a similar British tradition continued by
the Duchess of Cambridge. And don’t forget the legendary wrap dress; the most
forgiving of styles, easy to wear and accessorize. A wrap dress hugs your
curves accentuating your bust, creating a flirty, sexy look. Check out A Pea in the Pod for inspiration!
Colors like dark blue, charcoal and black
will instantly make you appear slimmer, but what about if you have to wear
white and you find yourself floating down the aisle with your full, pregnant
belly leading the way? Find a bridal gown that will flair out higher on your
torso, much like an empire waist, and gently flows vertically down; forego a
full skirt that billows outward, as this will add unnecessary volume.
Additionally, opt for a dress with short sleeves or straps, as expecting women
are more inclined to become warm and a removal shawl or coat is a much better
way to keep toasty during a winter ceremony than permanent sleeves. Don’t bemoan that there won’t be options out
there for you, as retailers like David’sBridal have specific sections dedicated to maternity wedding dress.
Who says your feet have to be uncomfortable
to be cute? The last thing a pregnant momma needs is frumpy! More and more
manufacturers are marrying cool style, and designs with technology for
trouble-free feet. There are alternatives to Birkenstocks! Some lucky mommas
can rock a pair of sky-high heels – think Victoria Beckham! Expecting moms
often benefit from increased arch support, so equip your footwear with
comfortable insoles or purchase flats that provide orthotic structure.
Draw attention to features you like best.
Would your bust put a swimsuit model to shame? Rock that cleavage with scooped
neck tops. Have your nails and skin got that special glow? Treat yourself to a
salon manicure. Have your makeup reflect your sparkle. Pregnancy doesn’t have
to stop you from fashionably stealing the spotlight at the next party you
attend this winter; a little bit of strategic dressing, a touch of confidence
and that beautiful pregnancy glow will undoubtedly look and feel beautifully
sexy.