Pregnancy can be an extraordinary journey. Every kick and wiggle is a reminder that your little bundle of joy is growing bigger and stronger every day, and everybody tells you you’re glowing. However, many women find it difficult to feel elegant while pregnant, particularly during the third trimester. There will be days when you feel tired and uncomfortable, and the idea of dressing up to attend a wedding or party fills you with dread. Even so, despite the inevitable changes to your body during pregnancy, you deserve to feel confident and beautiful. Here are some tips to help you look and feel your best in maternity formalwear.
Dress Comfortably
Don’t be tempted to try and squeeze into your pre-pregnancy clothing - your main priority is the well-being of you and your baby. Fortunately, there is enough choice in the maternity sections of high street chains and boutiques for you to look fabulous whilst maintaining comfort. You may want to opt for loose, flowing cuts such as kaftans and wrap dresses. Avoid excessively tight clothing, as it can restrict blood flow and lead to chafing.
Due to hormonal changes, many women become easily overheated while pregnant. The last thing you want during a function is to become hot and bothered or sweat your carefully-applied makeup off. To avoid this, choose lightweight clothing that allows air to circulate, keeping you cool and comfortable.
Footwear
It is entirely normal for your feet to swell during pregnancy, in which case, a pair of sky-high stiletto heels is not the route you want to be taking. Instead, opt for a pair of formal flats with ample arch support, such as brogues or ankle boots. Wide-fit shoes will give your achy feet additional room to breathe and allow for extra swelling throughout the day. Consider inserting memory foam insoles for extra support and comfort.
If you simply cannot live without heels, a pair of low platform sandals will give you a touch of height with adequate stability. Avoid shoes that are uncomfortable and difficult to walk in - poor posture can exacerbate back pain and put unnecessary strain on your already burdened joints and muscles.
Don’t Be Afraid To Show Off Your Bump
Allowing your bump to take centre stage is one of the most positively affirming things you can do whilst pregnant. Showing off your beautiful baby-to-be will let everybody else share your joy and excitement. However, if you’d prefer to keep things understated, that’s completely acceptable, too - remember, it’s your baby and your body.
As long as you choose a comfortable material with ample elasticity, you can embrace your femininity with a curve-hugging bodycon or pencil midi dress. Alternatively, you could opt for an equally feminine off-the-shoulder loose-fitting maxi dress. Maternity dresses often feature empire waistlines which offer the best of both worlds - the ability to conceal or flaunt depending on your feelings.
Smart-Casual
Suppose your upcoming event has a smart-casual dress code. The beauty of smart-casual is with a few choice accessories; you can wear practically whatever you like! Weekend plans such as brunch, work dinners and garden parties often call for less formal attire. A plunge-neck pleated skater dress, styled with strappy sandals and an unbuttoned blazer, is the perfect comfortable yet chic outfit for such events. You could swap out the sandals for crisp white sneakers and the blazer for a cardigan or denim jacket to dress down even more.
Black Tie
Black tie events are top-tier extravagant affairs. Award ceremonies, galas and charity balls are invariably grand occasions, chock-full of tuxedos and dinner jackets. Don’t let being heavily pregnant stop you from being the belle of the ball! Choose luxurious materials such as silk and velvet for an extra touch of sleek glamour. Go bold with ruby red, or keep it sophisticated with mysterious black, and don’t forget to add a hint of sparkle with some opulent jewellery.
Undergarments
When it comes to donning your favourite formalwear, you might be used to wearing a strapless bra or even no bra at all. Sadly, this can be difficult during pregnancy. Your underwear should be supportive, comfortable and made from natural, breathable materials such as cotton. High-quality maternity bras are worth investing in and will help to minimise back pain and breast tenderness.