It’s about time Stilista’s done a pregnancy style blog, but of course it took me personally getting pregnant to finally start tackling this unique topic. This is not my first pregnancy, but it is very likely my last, so I have all the motivation in the world to make this go-around especially fun and stylish (that and the fact that during my first pregnancy I was miserably counting the days until I could come back to my non-maternity clothes).
Let me begin by saying that I am not one of these “I LOVE being pregnant!!” women. I am rather a change-fearing, waistline-loving, high-heel wearing, somewhat high-maintenance woman, so transitioning to pregnancy has not been easy for me. I miss my regular wardrobe go-to’s, especially those in the denim family (Joe’s Honey size 28 in dark stonewash – this one’s for you!), but now that I am almost halfway through and past that awkward “Is she pregnant or just chubby?” phase, I have gotten a tad more excited about my maternity look.
Here are some one-size-fits all tips for all of you embarking in the 40-week journey:
- Get a FAB haircut, stressing to the stylist that you need face-slimming layers. Cause your face might stay the same, or it might round out.
I saw Alex at A Cote Salon on Newbury, and was upfront about my “situation” and he delivered flattering face-framing layers that accentuate my cheekbones. Love!
- Invest in higher quality footwear, justifying splurges by not spending as much on clothes for 9 months.
In addition to shoes being a constant in your changing wardrobe, the fit and comfort becomes oh-so-important as you carry around extra weight, lose your center of gravity (read: increased clumsiness) and face loosening joints and ligaments that can make your feet grow (yes, this happened to me the first time around, and I went from an already significant size 9 to an even more behemoth 9.5. I blame the flimsy flip-flops I unknowingly wore on long June walks in the last month.)
- Shapewear is your friend.
A smoothing cami with a built-in bra can we worth its weight in gold for most pregnant women. Mama SPANX tights can give you a smooth line under dresses and skirts, while providing support for your growing bump and taking a little pressure off your hips and back. You’re looking bigger and rounder, but that doesn’t mean you have to look lumpy.
- Make-up goes a long way.
Much like a good hair cut, contouring with bronzer or blush can make a big difference in providing a slimming visual effect to the face. By accentuating your eyes or lips, you will also be drawing attention to your face, making it easier for people to avoid groping your stomach or staring at your newly-ample bosom.
- Bag the perfect bag.
Like shoes, bags are also a great way to stay stylish when you might be feeling the pregnancy blues. A dear friend got me a gorgeous red Ferragamo confection for my birthday, which conveniently coincided with my 6th week of pregnancy, and I can’t tell you how much more put together it makes me feel even when I am schlepping around in yoga pants. Aside from the aesthetic aspects, it is also very important to consider the comfort factor: look for a cross-body design or smaller style to avoid excessive weight on one side – it may wreak havoc on your back. If you must do a bigger shoulder bag, alternate sides regularly.
Look out for more maternity tips in this series – I will add weekly posts. But now I need a snack.
– Maria
You must be logged in to post a comment.