Festive Dressing: Maternity party looks

One of the most popular requests for style ideas sent to me via my Instagram DM is for maternity and breastfeeding-friendly clothing.

I have to say, I really enjoyed being pregnant – it probably sounds a bit silly, but it was probably the only time in my life when I didn’t feel self-conscious, so I really enjoyed experimenting with styles I wouldn’t usually wear, especially fitted, figure-hugging pieces.

It’s an opportunity to wear clothes – like I did – that are a little out of your comfort zone, but equally it is TOTALLY possible to find pieces that stay true to your personal style. And while there are some amazing brands offering maternity wear, they can often be a bit ‘safe.’ I remember finding a lot of it quite predictable and frumpy, so I did try to think outside the box a little more.

If you don’t want to spend a lot on clothes you aren’t going to need forever, think about non-maternity. Just size up if necessary. For example, I wore a lot of pieces from COS because they’re great at those chic tunics and slightly oversized dresses that worked post-pregnancy too.

If you buy what you would usually buy, just a few sizes larger, you will be able to style out the pieces after you’ve given birth too – just by tucking in, belting or layering.

Longer layers, including shirts and cardigans are really useful. You’ll start to get annoyed with shorted pieces riding up as you progress through your pregnancy, plus the layers are handy when nursing afterwards.

Second-hand is also worth checking out – vintage and pre-loved maternity on eBay, Etsy and even on maternity wear sites like Isabella Oliver may give you what you need.

I have put together some festive looks that might work for you, particularly if you’re currently pregnant or a new mum who is breastfeeding. For the purposes of the feature, maternity-friendly = M and suitable for nursing = BF.

Zara’s maternity section is great (it’s Zara Mum on the website), full of styling tricks and versions of pieces also available in the main range.

Hatch is a US brand that is slightly more expensive. I also found this similar dress in H&M Mama: