Let’s face it, maternity dressing can be a daunting task, even for A-listers with a team of stylists on their speed dial. So how do you bring your wardrobe up to scratch with your changing body without having to break the bank in the process? For starters, pour yourself some iced tea and take heart: the world of maternity fashion has never been this accessible. Easy silhouettes have edged out the constricting dunagrees, breezy fabrics have found a home even on international catwalks and breathable separates are now accepted as formal wear.
With a wardrobe full of pre-maternity clothes that may not fit any longer and maternity clothes that you keep outgrowing every few months, putting together an outfit can seem like a Herculean task on normal days; how do you get your fashion A-game together for the special occasions in your life? Fret not; we’ve done all the legwork for you. Uncompromisingly elegant, comfortable and accessible, here’s how to navigate special events during the most important nine months of your life.
COCKTAIL MATERNITY DRESS
Your bar order may have changed to mocktails, but you needn’t turn down the dial on your wardrobe choices as well. Make fast friends with stretchable fabrics so that you aren’t constantly replenishing your closet with clothes that don’t fit your growing bump. If you’re looking for a failsafe fashion trend to place your money on, head-to-toe colour is having its moment in the spotlight. Simply co-ordinate your clothes and accessories with the same hue, and you’re ready to keep pace with the fashion insiders.
Though heels are considered de rigueur for cocktail parties, you can work in some comfort by opting for on-trend brogues that have earned a thumbs-up from the fashion police. If you’re scouting for additions to your shopping list, this Belissima Navy Dress will stand you in good stead with its empire cut and delicate silhouette.
BABY SHOWER MATERNITY DRESS
Hands down, the baby shower is the most important event that you’re going to attend in the entire nine months of your pregnancy. The belle of the ball definitely needs to ensure that all eyes are on her. Your best bet is to go in for pastels and breezy patterns that are gathered below the bust to give structure to your figure by accentuating your bump. Your top priority needs to be breathable fabrics as you’ll be on your feet for a long time at an event that’s occurring during the last trimester of your pregnancy. Work in some brownie fashion points by opting for the Fantasie Coral Dress–the gently scooped neckline and the trendy hue will ensure that you remain the star of the event.
DRESS FOR CHRISTENING
You’re done with the difficult bits; you’re in the home stretch now, but that take heed: post-pregnancy dressing should be given the proper attention it needs. Your curves need to be considered, as well as the added responsibility of breastfeeding. Having an infant on your arm means that you need your outfit to be fuss-free and comfortable. The key to acing this situation is to keep it simple yet stylish–avoid all the frills and go in for A-line options. This Tulip Navy Dress is a worthy contender for your money; the crossover V-neck allows for easy breastfeeding while the statement colour can be dressed up or dressed down depending on your mood.
BRIDESMAID MATERNITY DRESS
Being a bridesmaid comes with its own set of responsibilities. Tending to the bride and looking glamourous yourself at the same time isn’t as easy as it sounds. Also, coordinating your outfit with the troop of other bridesmaids can get tricky. The best way to ensure that you stand out is to fix the colour and the length of the dress with the other bridesmaids, and then play around with the material and cut to suit your needs. Depending on which trimester you’re in, you need to take a call on the cut of your dress: the first and second trimester would call for an A-line dress to gently hug your curves and enhance your figure. But if you’re in your third trimester, the best option would be to go in for a princess cut dress that allows for free movement, as comfort tops your priority list at this point of time. Since you’re going to be on your feet for extended periods of time, it’s recommended that you leave the pointy heels at home and instead compensate with accessories to keep the spark alive. This Valentine Red Maternity Dress packs in a punch with its siren colour and subtle lace enhancing the minimalist design.
MATERNITY DRESS FOR WEDDINGS:
Prolonged ceremonies and (often) distant locations mean that you need to choose wisely. Pastels are clearly a no-brainer for weddings, as are dresses that leave room for movement. Don’t worry about having to forgo your sartorial sensibilities though; there a host of dressy maternity gowns and dresses out there that bring you the best of both worlds. Look no further than the Emerald Maternity Dress that is gently gathered at the bust to leave room for your growing belly. The colour can be easily accessorised, and the princess cut means that you won’t be counting down the minutes until you return home and change into something else. As a bonus, the breathable fabric gently caresses the bump and allows your skin to breathe. That sound like a win-win to you?
As with all things in life, if you give yourself enough time for prep, there’s no reason why these nine months won’t be your most fashionable yet. Browse through GlamaMama.com to find something for those special days when you need to pamper yourself with a little something to help you sparkle.
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