Pregnancy Style for Special Occasions

With your body going through so many changes, it can seem challenging to balance style with practicality when you’re pregnant. Even with a big event coming up, you may struggle to get into the ‘glitz and glamour’ spirit. That’s why we asked our experts for their top tips when it comes to maternity style for special occasions, and we combined this advice with our in-house style gurus to create our top five tips:

Give Your Feet a Break

At any special occasion, you’re going to be spending a lot of time on your feet. Especially at weddings, that means meeting friends of friends and a dance or two. All this activity while carrying your baby puts strain on your feet, and swelling is common. While heels might be the normal go-to option, invest in some stylish flats or sandals. They’ll make things much more comfortable and can be matched with a flowing maxi dress to create an effortless style for weddings or formal parties, as flat shoes are surprisingly easy to dress up.

Don’t Be Afraid to Brighten Things Up

Fashion psychologist Dawnn Karen spoke about how our fashion style can impact on our mood. If you’re feeling unenthused about what to wear for a special occasion during pregnancy, then you may be tempted to focus on comfort alone. However, do not underestimate the mood enhancing capabilities your wardrobe can have; something as simple as wearing a brighter coloured-version of your go-to maternity dress and a low heel in place of flats will elevate your mood, without compromising comfort.

Shop for Lightweight Material

If you’re going out in the summer, the temperature is often a big factor in dictating what you should wear. Being pregnant, hot flashes can strike and disorient you, which is the last thing you want when you’re trying to relax with friends and family. Consider shopping for dresses made of lightweight fabrics, such as the above dress which is made of polyamide. It’s a highly breathable material, making it perfect to be bought in light coloured, free-flowing dresses to help stay cool while the weather picks up.

Choose to Flaunt or Hide your Bump

Conventional maternity style may have taught us to try and hide our bumps, but this is one rule you can choose to follow or choose to break. If you choose to flaunt your bump, opt for medium length bodycon dresses. Made with stretchable fabric and adjustable fastenings, your dress will show off your figure while allowing for your bump to grow. If you’re looking to hide it, stay away from clothing with large icons or patterns. Instead, look for clothing with small spots, detailed lace or ruffles to distract from your baby bump.

Know How You’re Carrying

Everyone goes through pregnancy differently, meaning there is little catch-all advice. But, by knowing what your body is going through, you can alter your wardrobe to keep things comfortable and stylish. Stephanie Alexis has advice, whatever your body type:

“If you're big all over, soft fabrics are the best way to help you feel great. If you're carrying high you should separate bust from bump with high belts, high-waisted skirts and maxi dresses. If you're carrying low, choose clothing that is soft on the waistline. Below the bump cuts can be really cute, nipping in and accentuating your shape. And if you're small all over, throw on a pair of skinny jeans to show off your legs with a sweater and a belt.”