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Glam guide to dressing well while pregnant
Natalie Portman at the 2011 Academy Awards.
A blooming Natalie Portman not only picked up the Oscar for Best Actor, she was also the clear winner in the style stakes during the red carpet rounds.
Managing to avoid all the usual pregnancy clichés – Portman opted for plunging neck lines, bold shades, strapless empire gowns and even short little mini dresses. As a cashed up A-lister, naturally Nat has a stylist on hand 24/7, but back in the real world the same mantra should apply – a baby on board is no excuse to throw the fashion rule book out the window.
And that means steering clear of unflattering maternity clothes and staying true to your signature style and the labels you love. Sure, a bit of adjustment is required but that’s the fun part. Having just hit the 27 week mark, I found myself in the midst of a full-blown wardrobe malfunction – the remainder of my “normal clothes” no longer fit and urgent action was required.
But instead of heading straight to the Target maternity section (not that we’re saying don’t go - the aisles are brimming with chic trench coats and wrap dresses), I hit the chain stores like Supre, Seed Femme and Cotton on, which all offer great basics that: 1. don’t cost the earth, 2. I’ll wear again and 3. are long and slouchy enough to cover an ever expanding belly in style.
Length, you see is the key when your uterus starts to poke out your middle and your usual tees start to ride up (not a good look). At Cotton On I picked up two dressy long knit tees for $30, which came in core colours like black, grey and white. And because right now the slouchy look equals effortless glam, I simply went up a size (meaning I will still be able to wear long after baby hits the scene).
The trick, however, to avoiding looking like you’re wearing an oversized sack – as was once the pregnancy norm – is to belt up. Invest in a cool streamlined belt (nothing too skinny or bulky) and tie it low under your belly to give those slouchy tees, shapeless shifts and long cardi's definition and to showcase that beautiful bump – which the aim after all. Flaunt it, don’t hide it! For this autumn/winter the big trends in belts and accessories are rich shades of camel, tan, red and gold. You could also embrace the tribal look and go for fringing, suede or tassels.
Making accessories your new best friends is seriously the way to go when the body starts to blow out. So adopt the uniform of the fashionista and wear chic and slimming black and set the look off with statement accessories.
On trend and topping the pregnancy-friendly list are: classic ballet flats (this season go for rich juicy patents or animal print). A fab pair of boots (flat black bikers or ankle wedge booties promise to give you style and support). Add a great heel for work or when you need to dress up (again anything platform, think clogs and wedges, will ensure your back won’t suffer any more than it already is). And don’t forget an IT bag - luxe metallics, camel or even bold red in classic totes or man style satchels are where its at. Oroton, Sportscraft, Witchery and Mimco have fabulous affordable options.
Then there’s the jewellery. Fabulous earrings, a funky cuff, a knuckle duster (perfect when the wedding ring no longer fits) and bangles piled high will give your look style and personality, not to mention detract from those exploding bosoms.
As we head into winter, its also time to master the art of layering. Luxury basics is one trend that’s definitely here to stay, thanks to brands like Bassike and T-luxe who specialise in beautiful eco-friendly pieces designed to be live in and layer. Sustainable fabrics like organic cotton, bamboo and jersey should be top of the wish list when comfort is key - and all that stretching makes for an itchy belly.
Look to stretch cotton and jersey tees (long and slouchy), fine knits (cardi's worn over those tees) shift dresses (belted remember and yes with that cardi on top), and luxe takes on the harem pant (hello silk and jersey). Don’t fear the harem pant - provided it doesn’t scream poo catcher – it is a godsend when your expecting thanks to its elasticised waist. Subtle draping and softening around the thighs only adding to the appeal. Make it your “pant of the season” and team with all of the above, plus all those chic ponchos and wraps that are on their way for the cooler weather. That’s not to say you have to trade in your beloved denims. Topshop online has a fabulous fashion forward maternity line where you can pick up skinny jeans for around $80, as well as stylish options for work (printed blouses, tunics, tailored trousers) and evening (I spied the perfect black frill cocktail frock).
In terms of the pregnancy colour palette it’s best to play things subtle so opt for block shades – navy, charcoal, marle grey, white, black, soft blues, neutrals and red if you’re up for it – over busy prints and anything overly embellished. Yes, that includes all those that brazen tees featuring predictable slogans such as Mind the Bump and Up The Duff. (we get it) Better to add interest with accessories, a well-placed broach or sparkly pin is gorgeous on a wrap or poncho.
Lastly commit this to memory: it's what's underneath counts. No, we’re not talking about your personality. So give up the g-strings (so uncomfortable pregnant or not) and invest in scrumptious underpants in a size up (silk or organic cotton feels like heaven), a good maternity bra (be fitted and buy two when you find the perfect one) and some luxe sleep wear (head to Little Joe by Gail Elliott or Going To Hospital.) It doesn’t matter that you don’t plan on showing your knickers to anyone any time soon, or that you can’t sleep, at least you’ll look and feel a million dollars. After all baby bumps are in (look at Posh, Pink and Natalie), and as a bonafide member of this special little club you owe it to yourself to do it in style.
