Mar 19, 2013 11:19
by Sally Creagh
Well as the two big Ks (Kate and Kim) reach their 5th month of pregnancy, and are finally beginning to show, all eyes are now on their maternity fashion choices.
Kim has had some notable hits and misses and admits to struggling with finding things to wear. Kate's bump is only just beginning to pop, and she isn't allowed to say anything of course, but she will undoubtedly end up sailing through with a lot of wrap dressed and other suitably tasteful numbers. We're not going to see her in anything as exciting as flapping pink silk maxis or snakeskin peplum duds. But we can always dream!
Conventional wisdom tells us there are two ways to construct a pregnancy wardrobe. You can try to adapt regular clothes for maternity by buying loose, stretchy or larger sizes (or even wearing men’s shirts etc); or you can buy specially designed maternity garments.
But there is another way. Many women don’t want to spend the money on a maternity wardrobe as it will only be in use for a short time, but come to regret it. The late stages of pregnancy can be very uncomfortable for some, so having clothes that actually fit, not merely tent-like coverings, really helps. On the other hand, blowing your yearly fashion budget on pieces you can only wear for 5 months does not make sense either...
The perfect compromise is finding garments that can work both when you’re pregnant and afterwards when you’re back to your old size, as well as all the stages in between (including breastfeeding).
Fortunately, there are many awesome maternity labels out there, and even some regular designer labels whose dresses can be worn during pregnancy.
Oriri is a one stop shop for maternity-friendly fashion which ranges from basics like leggings and tunics to something you could wear to a wedding or a special occasion. Owner Jade Scheuerle chooses items from designers that will flatter the pregnant form, and even offers images of pregnant and non-pregnant models for most garments to show how they will fit, during pregnacy and after.
Mama Bella is another site that provides a great range of maternity gear (be sure to check out their great sale too!). Szabo is a maternity specialist that also believes in the philosophy of extended use, with plenty of designs that could be adapted to after pregnancy use. Leona Edmiston, Sacha Drake and Leina Broughton are all Australian designers who offer pieces that can take you through pregnancy and beyond.
So don’t get stuck in your partner’s hoodie and your old gym leggings for nine months, check out this mega 30-piece edit of fab pregnancy solutions. You’re welcome.
