Christmas is just around the corner and you might be wondering how to dress your bump. Here are our top 10 tips for looking good during the festive season.
If you can’t wear a bit of sparkle at Christmas, then when can you?
And, if you’re in those early stages of pregnancy where you’re worried you just look exhausted rather than blossoming and radiant, then big necklaces, bold bracelets, or eye-catching earrings are a good option.
And remember, no matter how big your bump, you never outgrow a good handbag! Keep getting your old favourites out as they can give you a boost and make you feel like your old self.
Pretty patterned or sequined scarves to drape around your shoulders can also lift an outfit – and your spirits.
If you do have lots of social events over the festive season you might want to invest in a party outfit that feels extra special.
There are lots of lovely maternity brands out there that have gorgeous dresses for fancy functions. Look out for discount codes and end-of-season sales.
Also, if you’re considering spending a good chunk of money on something, think about whether it could be altered by a seamstress or dry cleaner after your baby is here so you can still wear it post-pregnancy.
Or you could think about selling your maternity dresses online afterwards to recoup a little cash.
Long cardis can be great at this time of year as they look dressy, keep you and bump warm and also provide a bit of a cover up if you’re still getting used to your changing body.
Waterfall cardi shapes are really flattering as your lovely bump is still visible and they drape nicely over the hips.
Festive jumpers. Need we say more?
Luckily over the last few years they’ve become very popular. And as they’re comfy and stretchy they could see you through the whole of December (maybe even November too – it’s never too early!)
Team with super comfy maternity jeans and statement shoes and you’re ready for the work Christmas party.
If you’re struggling to feel good about your new pregnancy shape, little treats can really help you have more confidence.
Painting your nails, having a relaxing bath before you go out or putting on your favourite perfume can help.
And spending more time on your make-up or having your hair done might perk you up at a time when you may otherwise feel tired and big.
Coats can be a bit of a minefield when you’re pregnant as you may not want to invest too much in something you’ll only need for a few months.
However lots of high street shops do offer maternity coats that don’t cost too much.
Alternatively, depending on the style, you could wear you normal coat and just do up the buttons where they meet at the top, then wear a jumper underneath.
A stylish coat can give you a real confidence boost.
You don’t just need to wrap your presents this year, you could wrap your bump too. Wrap dresses are so easy to wear and a good investment as they can see you through every stage, from early pregnancy right through to bulging bump.
The simple wrap dress will become your wardrobe staple as you can dress it up or down for any occasion.
Wrap dresses are also comfy during your recovery from birth, quick to throw on when you’re dealing with a demanding newborn and easy to breastfeed in.
You don’t have to look for maternity brands either, as high street shops are likely to have a classic wrap dress you can buy in a larger size.
If you’re wondering what on earth you can squeeze your ever-expanding bump into, actually you might find there’s lots in your wardrobe you can repurpose.
It’s worth pulling out anything that’s pretty adaptable – jackets can be left open if they no longer button up and dresses can worn be unzipped at the back with a furry shrug or smart cardi to hide your bra.
Stretchy summer maxi dresses can also be adapted for winter with tights and a blazer. Smart shirts can be worn open with a vest underneath.
Bump bands can be a good idea so clothes that are on the smaller side don’t come up too short.
Check out NCT Nearly New Sales as they have lots of great maternity clothes, many of which are in perfect condition.
Also think about whose wardrobe you might be able to borrow from – friends may be happy to lend you their maternity clothes or you could arrange to do swaps with your NCT group.
Look at charity shops for bargains too.
It’s worth getting yourself a few pregnancy staples to go underneath your festive outfits – a good non-wired bra is a must so try to get yourself measured.
You might also want to stock up on maternity tights or leggings that’ll be snug and stretchy.
When you’re pregnant you can fluctuate between hot and cold so layers are a good idea. Think about getting some cheap stretchy vests for underneath.
Some women might still be comfortable wearing their normal footwear, but others might not if – especially if their feet have swollen. As tempted as you might be, it’s best to think about your comfort and temporarily shelve those towering stilettos.
That doesn’t mean you have to have boring footwear though – look at lower heels or flats that have loads of sparkle, animal print, metallic shades or bright colours and, of course, boots. The latter is one of the best things about autumn and winter.
If you find your calves have expanded but you still want to wear knee-high boots, look out for elasticated ones that stretch around the back so they’re not too tight and restrictive.
Or you could try slouchy ones, or sock-style boots that you pull up over your legs.
It can be hard to bend down to put on shoes, so it can help to keep fastenings simple – zips are your friend!
Most importantly, wear whatever makes you feel good. Even if you are self-conscious about how your body is changing and how you might be feeling, there are lots of ways to help you enjoy the festive season. And why not?
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Tips on surviving winter when you’re pregnant
