LOOK Y❤UR BEST!

Look gorgeous while you grow with these 10 simple tips from fashion stylist Kirsty Stoltz.

1 BUY THESE BASICS

Every pregnant woman needs these three basics in her wardrobe. First off, a good pair of maternity jeans. Choose a pair of ultra-soft dark denims. They work well for a casual look, and you can style them up for a more formal look. Opt for jeans that adjust in size with buttons or an elastic waistband over your bump, or choose a style with a stretchy waistband that sits directly beneath your bump. Leggings are perfect for layering under an oversized denim shirt on the weekend, or worn with a shift dress for work. They’re also great to wear in the first few weeks once baby arrives, as they’re super comfortable and stretchy too. Lastly, the lifesaving wrap dress will take you through each trimester. It’s adjustable and very forgiving on the waistline.

2 GET A MAXI

A great way to feel instantly glamorous is by wearing a maxi dress. Wear this long dress style with a pair of dainty flats or comfy wedges. You can choose a patterned maxi dress or stick with one bold colour. Pop on a statement necklace, and you’re good to go!

3 RAID YOUR WARDROBE

Go through your wardrobe and look for pieces that’ll work with your pregnant body shape. Set aside your finds in a section of your wardrobe, so you don’t battle to find something to wear every morning. Look for longer-length T-shirts, stretchy tops that’ll expand to accommodate your growing belly, blazers, biker jackets and cardigans. Be on the lookout for loose or boyfriend jeans. Wear them with a bellyband; they might feel a little snug compared to your pre-pregnancy days, but your look will be stylish and modern.

4 DRESS FOR YOUR SHAPE

Accentuate your bust and bump. Choose dresses with an empire line (a dress with a seam underneath the bust). Empire lines do wonderful things for a full bust and beautifully define your bump. Stretchy tops and dresses with ruching up the side give you some extra room for your expanding bump, while still showing off yourshape.

5 ACCESSORISE

Boost your maternity wardrobe with bold accessories to add a little excitement to your look. Add a luxe statement necklace to a wrap dress, or define your bump by wearing a thin belt underneath your bust. Pack away your stilettos and wear flats. Opt for a wild pair of leopard print slip-on plimsolls or leglengthening flat pointed pumps – they’re easier to slip on while you’re pregnant. Your feet might be swollen, so go up a size if necessary to keep comfy.

6 LAYER UP

Layering adds endless outfit options to your hardworking wardrobe. When you raided your wardrobe, did you find your favourite blazer? Roll up the sleeves, and wear with a white tee and jeans for a contemporary look. Or, pick up a soft waterfall knit or kimono and wear with a preggy top and leggings. You’ll cover the less-than-perfect areas of your body and accentuate the gorgeous parts!

7 GET SOME SUPPORT

Look for a bra that gives your breasts and expanding rib cage some room to grow. Choose a maternity bra that fits when the clasp is on the tightest setting, so you allow room for growth. If you’re buying a nursing bra before you give birth, buy at least one cup-size up, as your breasts will increase in size once your milk comes in a few days after birth. Or, buy a few bra extenders that’ll give you extra breathing room. If your breasts are bigger than DDs, choose a bra with straps that are at least 2cm wide.

8 TREAT YOURSELF

Once your little cherub arrives, there won’t be much time for you. So spoil yourself with a great new haircut and have that much-needed mani and pedi.

8 TAKE YOUR VITAMINS

Your body is working overtime growing your baby, so make sure you take the best pregnancy supplements you can afford. Supplements ensure baby gets all the nutrients he needs, and keep you feeling (and looking!) beautiful.

10 STAY HOME, SHOP ONLINE

Too tired to traipse through the mall? It’s time to shop online. There’s a huge selection of local and international retailers who supply gorgeous maternity wear. Most online retailers have a simple returns policy, so if you aren’t happy with your purchase, it can be easily exchanged or returned. See the next four pages for more inspiration. ●