Being an expectant mom can be one of the most exciting, nerve-wracking, happiest, and challenging experiences. When I was pregnant last year, there were so many miraculous changes happening to my body, but I also faced the task of dressing for work, meetings, events, and soirées when I felt like I was carrying a bowling ball, my tummy was itchy, my back was aching, my boobs were tender, and all I really wanted to do was walk around naked all day (if only!). Trying to feel like yourself when everything is changing can be a challenging endeavor. I didn’t want to lose the joy of dressing (I am a fashion editor, after all), but many sartorial choices I made had to change (no more high-waisted jeans and pointed-toe heels for me). Luckily, there are certain ways you can easily adapt to your growing bump without losing your style.
My colleague Hannah Almassi, editor in chief of Who What Wear UK, also became pregnant this year, and with just one scroll through her Instagram, you’ll see how seriously chic she looks with her growing bun in the oven. Today, she’s sharing some of her favorite maternity pieces she swears by that balance comfort and style perfectly—getting her through work, weekends, and beyond as her due date draws closer. Scroll below to get inspired, mamas-to-be.
Stretchy Dresses
"The minute I tried this on for a feature, I knew it would be a winner! The jersey fabric is really slinky and feels so luxe; the silhouette will adapt throughout my pregnancy, and I know I'll wear it on the other side—which has been my main aim when buying anything during this time."
Fancy-Event Dress
"Dressing for a wedding when you're in the later stages of your pregnancy can feel quite daunting. I made the most of this year's trend for ruching, smocking, and shirring by ordering this super-stretchy dress from a cool independent British label I love."
Tevas
"My savior! I've always been a high- or mid-heel girl, but since I became pregnant, my feet and ankles have become progressively more swollen. The only thing that feels comfy is adjustable, supportive sandals like these. I just have to hope it doesn't ever rain."
Slip Skirt
"The elastic-waistband slip skirt from Samsoe & Samsoe is chic and comfortable, and I've been wearing it on repeat."
"I also picked up a couple of different colorways of Topshop's bias-cut midis. They expand across the waistline and still feel comfortable. I've been wearing them with knotted shirts or cropped tees, as the high-shine finish shows any tucked-in layers."
Statement Jewelry
"I love jewelry anyway, but I've come to really rely upon it to make some of my more basic maternity outfits feel like they still reflect my personal style. I've been mixing and matching gold pieces, often with pearl details, and delving back into my statement-earring archive!"
Basket Bag
"I didn't realize quite how many extra things I'd need to start carrying around on my commute (bottle of water, snacks, handheld fan, tissues, etc.), and I really didn't want to lug a huge bag or rucksack around. I've discovered that I can fit everything into a neat little basket bag and still tote something that feels like it goes with everything."
Bra
"Within what felt like a mere few seconds after finding out I was pregnant, my already-ample bust expanded by quite a few sizes in both the cup and the waist. Because of my current measurements, there are very few options available that don't look hugely unattractive or feel uncomfortable. I had to segue into non-wired a few months ago and have tried enough styles to know that this Sugar Candy style (hideous name, great product) is the best out there."
Up next, I'm seven months pregnant and can't stop wearing these breezy maternity dresses.
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