It can be tricky to dress a burgeoning tummy, but fear not, it can be done with ease and practicality. With some inspiration from some super stylish mommies on Instagram, here are some makchic tips to look effortlessly fresh and anything but frumpy!
Style the Bump Tip #1: Overalls and playsuits
For a great combination of relaxed comfort and playful style, overalls, jumpsuits and playsuits will up your cool factor during pregnancy. Keep the outfit simple and light. Stay away from bulky inner tops. For more formality, you could get overalls in black, or wear a smart shirt. You could also style it up with heels and sunglasses, or just let a cute playsuit shine, like how Whimsigirl’s Syazana Sukiman does here.
Style the Bump Tip #2: Swing and Trapeze away!
Many pregnant women like empire waist dresses to showcase their bump, but we love chic trapeze dresses. The swing starts from above the bust, instead of under it. Think Victoria Beckham when she attended William and Kate’s wedding – complete with statement fascinator, hat or shoes – and you even have a look for formal events.
Style the Bump Tip #3: Flow, Flowers and Form
Resist the urge to overwhelm your figure with a huge, ill-fitting dress. Try dresses featuring a trapeze layer on the top, which offers an all-round aesthetically–pleasing form. Dresses with a V-neck are also super flattering for pregnant moms, and allow you to play with kimonos or light jackets to further enhance your silhouette. Azura Abdul Rahman shows us how to bring the whole look together with some very cool shoes.
Style the Bump Tip #4: Oversized shirt dresses
These are super comfortable and will flatter your bump from the first to the last trimester. We practically lived in our & Other Stories shirt dresses all throughout. You can button all the way up to look cute and classy, cinch it above your bump, or style it with standout shoes or bag.
Style the Bump Tip #5: Turtleneck or high-neck sweaters and tops
This look is comfy, elegant and practical, but keep it looking stylish by pairing it with a snug bottom half. Wearing it with a big or voluminous skirt may result in unflattering proportions.
Style the Bump Tip #6: Monochrome
Fashionistas know that playing with different shades of the same colour can be highly flattering, even when you are sporting a bump! Try black, grey or navy shades, and then pop on a bright lip colour on to bring out the wow. Mommies can showcase their individuality by jazzing things up with bold, bright colours or accessories.
Style the Bump Tip #7: Off-shoulder dresses
Something about the off-shoulder look fits perfectly with a growing bump. Just remember to keep things simple with accessories. Simple sandals and a touch of class when it comes to necklaces and bangles will do – don’t clutter the look!
Style the Bump Tip #8: Kimonos and light jackets
These will be your best friends, adding personality and zest to your look easily while streamlining the silhouette. It can totally dress up your casual day-to-day outfits and make you feel like a star. Experiment with different prints and lengths to go with clothing you already have, and voilà! They will be a staple in your wardrobe, and you will have less need to buy maternity wear.
Style the Bump Tip #9: A midi maternity skirt
If you are going to purchase maternity wear, we would recommend getting a midi maternity skirt or a dress that can serve the same look – this will greatly expand your wardrobe possibilities during your different trimesters! You can use your existing tops with it – for casual and formal wear – or style it with crop tops that will flatter your silhouette.
Style the Bump Tip #10: Neutral, classic looks
Your comfy trousers can easily lend to a dowdy or dreary look if you pair it with T-shirts, colourful shirts or busy prints. Keep things cool and relaxed with loose tops in classic white, black or neutral. Keep the look easy and effortless with simple, elegant accessories.
And there you have it: some ideas for your chic maternity wardrobe, and things to note when you are buying clothes that can multi-task, bump or no bump!
By Nellie Liang
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