As anyone who has ever been pregnant will tell you, finding good maternity clothes is not easy. The category is divided into the expensive specialist brands, which can feel wasteful given that you’ll only be wearing them for a few months, and poorly made high-street finds. Sure, some women are lucky enough to still be wearing their normal jeans until the final month, but for most of us – myself included – getting dressed when pregnant is tricky.
Partywear presents yet another conundrum. While you might have found the perfect knitwear and denim for everyday, sourcing pieces that make you feel glamorous and festive without feeling like a slowly moving tank is a whole new ball game. It is only when you no longer have a waist that you recognise how many clothes are designed to accentuate one, and how confining strappy party shoes truly are when your feet and ankles feel swollen. Sacrificing champagne is enough without having to forgo clothes that make you feel like yourself. Having waded through the sad waters of maternity-wear over the past few months, this is what I have learnt so far.
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A good bra is everything
It’s a boring, unglamorous place to start, but a supportive, soft bra is the foundation point for everything else. No party outfit will feel good unless you have the basics sorted. Underwire became my nemesis very only on, but I also didn’t want to wear anything that felt too soul-crushing either. The high-street maternity versions did nothing in terms of support, but Bravado’s body silk nursing bras have served me well, and can be worn during and after pregnancy. They’re made with recycled nylon, so better for the environment, but also feel silky soft. Commando’s super comfortable butter collection has also been a real win; I loved this line pre-pregnancy and they’ve served me really well during – the minimal simplicity of their aesthetic combined with the supportive design makes them a great option.
Don’t buy anything you won’t wear afterwards
This is something that comes up in most maternity style guides, but that's because it’s true – don’t waste your money on something you’ll abandon post-pregnancy. You don’t have to give up on considered, environmentally aware shopping just because you’re expecting. Either invest in a size or more above, embrace oversized shirting and stretchy materials or enjoy the sweet joy of an elasticated waistband. Don’t chastise yourself for investing in a pair of maternity jeans if they make you feel good, but know that there is a lot out there that you can adapt after your bump is gone.
16Arlington
Credit: Courtesy
CECILIE BAHNSEN Cecilie Bahnsen
Credit: Courtesy
MANOLO BLAHNIK Manolo Blahnik
Credit: CourtesyEmbrace the Christmas tree silhouette
Now, this is a polarising issue. Some women think highlighting their bump is a more flattering route and makes them feel great (Rihanna is the leader of the pack here), but others – myself included – have welcomed big dress energy. We are all grateful for the voluminous romance of Simone Rocha, Cecilie Bahnsen and Molly Goddard, which make for perfect party dresses during pregnancy and after. Look out for trapeze looks (or the Christmas tree as I’m calling it for now) – styles that are narrow at the shoulder and dramatically, but gradually widen as it reaches the hem. Not only is it a timelessly chic look, but it’s also really comfortable. Cos has a few great affordable options, some with sleeves, some without, in black that will look great with statement accessories and a pair of block heels.
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All hail the elasticated trouser and oversized shirt combination
Someone told me early on that tailoring would be one of the first things I’d have to scrap during pregnancy. Sure, you’re not going to wearing the same cigarette pants that saw you through previous party seasons, but swap for an elasticated waistband version and you have the same look. No, you can’t tuck a silk shirt into the waistband like you might have done otherwise, but it’s funny how comfort has the ability to override all else. Again, you don’t have to turn to maternity brands for this – I bought a sequinned pair from Maje that crop at the ankle, which I wear with either an oversized shirt and blazer or, for added comfort, an oversized navy roll-neck. Top that with a pair of statement earrings and a great pair of heels and you have a versatile Christmas party ensemble.
Rent for big occasions
Maybe you have a particularly high-octane event, perhaps a wedding or black-tie occasion, which requires something extra special. Rather than buying something new, consider renting – the fashion rental market has never been more bountiful, and there really are so many great options to choose from. Hurr Collective, By Rotation and Rotaro are some of Bazaar’s favourites, all of which offer a great range of styles and sizes. Rotaro boasts a free ‘try-on’ service, where, if the items are returned unworn and with the ribbon attached, you are eligible for a full refund on up to three unworn items per order.
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Go big on accessories
A fabulous pair of earrings, a statement necklace or sequinned clutch will elevate your outfit regardless of what you’re wearing. Accessories will always fit, even if it feels like the rest of your wardrobe has turned on you. If you usually prefer subtle pieces, see this as an opportunity to go big and experiment – it’s such an easy way to dress up an ensemble. In terms of party shoes, if your go-to strappy sandals feel uncomfortable, try a block heel or platform – these feel sturdier and less inclined to pinching. Terry de Havilland does the best platforms, but Loeffler Randall’s pretty metallic sandals are also love-forever classics. Alternatively, there are some great party flats around – both high street and high end; turn to Jimmy Choo and Manolo Blahnik for the best budget-blowing versions, and head to Zara for scene-stealing embellished flats.
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