Introduction
Hey lovely ladies! Being pregnant is such a magical time, but it can also be a bit challenging when it comes to dressing up for special occasions. Whether it’s a wedding, baby shower, or a casual get-together, you as mothers deserve to look and feel fabulous.
In this article, I’m going to walk you through my top styling tips and outfit ideas to ensure you feel comfortable, confident, and chic. From embracing your beautiful bump with fitted styles to playing with bold patterns and accessorising smartly, I’ve got you covered. Plus, I’ll share some specific outfit inspirations for different types of events, so you’ll always have something perfect to wear.
So, let’s dive in and explore and discover how to make maternity fashion both stylish and effortless. Trust me, with the right clothes, tips and a little inspiration from Dressed for Two, you’ll be turning heads and feeling amazing at every special occasion. Let’s get started on this journey to maternity chic!
Embrace Your Shape
Love Your Bump:
It’s so important to highlight and celebrate your changing body. Opt for fitted silhouettes and skirts that show off your beautiful bump rather than hiding it under loose, shapeless clothing. Dresses with empire waists or bodycon styles are perfect for this, as they accentuate the narrowest part of your body and then flow comfortably over your bump.
Body Positivity:
Confidence is the best outfit, so wear it proudly! Embracing your shape is all about celebrating the incredible journey your body is on. Remember, you’re creating life, and that’s something to be incredibly proud of. Choose outfits that make you feel empowered and beautiful. Whether it’s a form-fitting dress or a chic pair of maternity jeans, wear it with pride and confidence.
Prioritise Comfort
Fabric Faves: When it comes to maternity fashion, comfort is key. Look for fabrics that are stretchy and breathable, such as jersey, cotton blends, and spandex. These materials will move with you and accommodate your growing bump, ensuring you stay comfortable throughout your pregnancy clothes and any event. Avoid anything too restrictive, as you want to feel at ease and free to enjoy yourself.
Comfy Chic: Comfort doesn’t mean sacrificing style. Many maternity pieces are designed to be both chic and cozy. Think soft, stretchy maxi dresses, relaxed-fit tops, and leggings that provide support without being too tight. The goal of maternity collection is to find that perfect balance where you feel stylish yet completely at ease. When you’re comfortable, it shows in your confidence and overall look. Remember, a happy mum-to-be is a radiant mum-to-be!
Play with Patterns and Colours
Bold and Beautiful:
Don’t be afraid to experiment with bold patterns and vibrant colours during your pregnancy. Florals, stripes, and geometric prints can add a fun and fashionable element to your maternity wardrobe. These patterns can draw attention to your bump in a flattering way and make a stylish statement. Choose prints that you love and that make you feel joyful and confident.
Mix and Match:
Mixing patterns can seem daunting, but it can create a chic and trendy look when done right. Pair a striped top with a floral skirt or a polka dot blouse with a geometric print. The key is to keep one pattern more subtle and the other more dominant to avoid clashing. Also, ensure the color palettes complement each other to create a cohesive outfit. Playing with patterns allows you to express your personality and keep your maternity style exciting.
Smart Accessorising
Accessories can transform a simple maternity outfit into a chic ensemble. Here’s how to do it right:
Statement Pieces:
Bold accessories like chunky necklaces, oversized earrings, or a standout bracelet can draw attention to your upper body, balancing out your silhouette. A stylish belt above your bump can also add definition and highlight your curves beautifully.
Functional and Fashionable:
Opt for accessories that are not only stylish but also practical. A roomy, chic handbag can carry all your essentials while adding to your look. Comfortable, stylish shoes are a must, especially if you’ll be on your feet for a while. Think elegant flats or low-heeled sandals.
Scarves and Shawls:
These versatile pieces can add a pop of color or pattern to your outfit while keeping you warm. They’re also great for layering, adding depth and interest to your look.
Hats and Sunglasses:
Perfect for outdoor events, a wide-brimmed hat and fashionable sunglasses can add a touch of glamour while providing protection from the sun.
By carefully choosing and combining accessories, you can elevate your maternity style to new heights.
Thoughtful Layering
Layering is an art, especially during the stages of pregnancy when comfort and style of maternity clothes are both priorities. Here’s how to master it:
Light Layers:
Opt for lightweight cardigans, shawls, or blazers that add dimension without bulk. These can easily be removed if you get too warm, keeping you comfortable throughout the day.
Seasonal Swag:
Adjust your layers according to suit the season. In cooler weather, choose cozy knits or maternity coats that provide warmth without restricting movement. For warmer months, go for breathable fabrics like cotton or linen that allow for airflow and keep you cool.
Longer Lengths:
Consider longer tops, shirts, pants and jackets that can help elongate your silhouette and provide a flattering line over your bump. A long cardigan or duster coat can add elegance to any outfit.
Mix Textures:
Play with different textures to add visual interest to your ensemble. Pair a smooth, silky top with a chunky knit cardigan or a leather jacket worn over a soft cotton dress for a balanced look.
Thoughtful layering not only keeps you comfortable but also adds depth, quality and sophistication to your own maternity wear wardrobe, ensuring you look polished and put-together for any occasion.
Outfit Ideas for Different Occasions
Styling your bump for a date or various events can be fun and exciting. Here are some outfit ideas for different occasions to keep you looking chic and feeling comfortable:
Weddings and Formal Events:
Opt for a glam maxi dress with an empire waist. This style is flattering and allows room for your growing bump. Look for maternity dresses made in elegant fabrics like chiffon or silk, which drape beautifully over your curves. Brands like Camilla & Marc offer stunning options that are both stylish and comfortable.
Baby Showers and Gender Reveals:
For these joyful events, choose a cute wrap dress in soft pastels or playful prints. Wrap dresses are great because they can be adjusted as your bump grows and are easy to wear. Pair it with comfortable wedges or flats and some delicate jewellery to complete the look.
Casual Gatherings:
When it comes to casual get-togethers, comfort is key. Go for trendy tops paired with comfy maternity jeans. A stylish, bump-friendly top with some stretch can keep you comfortable while looking effortlessly chic. Finish the look with a pair of stylish sneakers or ballet flats and a light cardigan for added warmth.
Conclusion
These outfit ideas ensure you stay stylish and comfortable, no matter the occasion, making every stage of your pregnancy and birth journey even more enjoyable.
So there you have it, mamas! Dressing your bump doesn’t have to be a chore – it’s a chance to celebrate your unique beauty and feel fabulous at every special occasion. Remember, embracing your shape, prioritising comfort, playing with patterns and colours, smart accessorising, and thoughtful layering are key to achieving a chic and stylish look. Enjoy experimenting with different outfits and have fun expressing your personal style. For more style inspiration and to find the perfect outfit, check out Dressed for Two. Feel fabulous and rock that bump with
Much Love,
Rhi
xx
Rhianan Hird is a Perth-based entrepreneur and the visionary founder of Dressed for Two. Inspired by her own pregnancy journey, Rhianan created Dressed for Two to provide stylish, comfortable, and functional maternity wear that makes expecting mothers feel confident and beautiful.
Her firsthand experience with the challenges of finding flattering and supportive pregnancy clothing drives her mission to empower other women to embrace their changing bodies with grace and style. Through her brand, Rhianan is dedicated to helping every mom-to-be feel celebrated and special throughout their pregnancy journey