FASHION: Jan Brierton, clearly revelling in her first pregnancy, shares some top tips.
AFTER I GOT over the initial delight of discovering that I was pregnant, my fashion-minded brain turned to thoughts of the beautiful outfits I could dress my little one in when he/she eventually arrives. And in time, as my bump expanded, I wondered what on earth would I wear myself? In my mind, maternity wear meant enormous smock dresses with garish flower prints.
Through lots of research (shopping!) I’ve managed to put together an on-trend selection of pregnancy wear, and picked up many tips along the way.
Embrace your changing silhouette – empire lines, while a key pregnancy trend, do not suit all body shapes. The many voluminous tops in my pre-pregnancy wardrobe simply don’t have the same impact with my ever-expanding bump. For once, I am happy to draw attention to my womanly curves. Fluid fabrics, such as jersey and soft cotton, hug that beautiful bump to maximum impact. M2B, the new fashion maternity range at Mothercare, has the softest jersey dresses and separates. Perfect for hugging and draping your precious cargo.
Although all the books will tell you comfort is key when dressing during your pregnancy, you shouldn’t have to ignore style. I’ve never owned a pair of tracksuit bottoms and I don’t plan on making them a key fixture of my new wardrobe. Many high-street fashion brands carry maternity lines of their mainline collections. My favourites are MS, Debenhams, Gap, and most recently River Island, whose Rock-a-by-River collection hits stores mid-September. This collection is directed towards cool “preganistas”. It’s on-trend and directional, providing an energised and rock-inspired maternity wardrobe. Think Blondie meets Grace Jones in a whirling pregnant sensation.
Make a special effort to ensure your underwear is updated. Over nine months, breasts can increase by up to 2lbs, so bra size can change up to four times during pregnancy. Maternity bras, though generally not too saucy, are specifically designed with comfort in mind and are great for day-to-day wear. And having a snug fitting bra will help with posture. MS, Mothercare, Debenhams and Littlewoods.ie all have simple basic maternity bras in black, white and nude.
Accessorising is key, with outerwear proving an essential addition to any pregnancy wardrobe. Bright is best, with hot pink coats and leopard print faux furs in River Island, and classic macs from M2B. I am a shoe lover, but my high heels are now banished to the back of the wardrobe, except for very special occasions. But this season’s flat brogues and ballet pumps will ensure that you can still give your pregnancy wardrobe an up-to-date fashion twist.
Don’t let anyone advise you not to spend on maternity clothes, or not to buy too much. After the early days, you are most likely to feel super sexy and confident, so add to your natural glow, and make an effort with your pregnancy wardrobe. Enjoy it, and be truly mamalicious!
Photographs: Alan Betson