Let’s get one thing straight: maternity style is not a one-size-fits-all endeavor. There are numerous ways to approach it and even then, you may feel that what works best in the early part of your pregnancy isn’t relevant in the later stages.
Much like workwear, the idea that your pregnancy style should be an entirely separate entity to your regular wardrobe, is simply no longer the case. Mix key maternity pieces – adjustable tailoring and denim – with fashion-forward pieces and chic staples such as vests, sweaters and blazers that you already have in your wardrobe.
From left: Chloé SS20, Zimmermann SS20, The Row SS20 / Courtesy of Vogue Runway
Thankfully, the SS20 runways also embraced looser, relaxed silhouettes with maxi dresses in floaty chiffon or stretch jersey that will highlight growing bumps and yet remain comfortable – look to Chloé and The Row for the perfect balance of polish and carefree cool.
As one of the best-dressed former members of the royal family, it was no surprise that Meghan Markle inspired by her evolving style during her pregnancy early last year. Choosing to rely on body-skimming silhouettes to highlight her bump, her outfits were an eclectic mix of bespoke and off-the-rack, mostly opting for designer pieces with a roomier fit: unbuttoned blazers, jersey midi dresses, double-breasted coats, and boyfriend shirts worn over jeans – all paired with her favorite suede sling-back heeled pumps.
Meghan Markle Photo: Getty
While it’s great to rotate designer pieces, the chances are you’ll need to invest in a few key maternity-specific items and there are brands that have bloomed in this market. Isabella Oliver, for example, is a maternity staple. Founded in 2003 by husband and wife duo Baukjen De Swaan Arons and Geoff von Sonsbeeck, the brand’s primary focus is fabrics that fit, flatter, and grow as your body does. Worn by Beyoncé, Angelina Jolie and Halle Berry, head there for flattering midi dresses, slouchy jumpsuits, and chic shirts.
Hatch (a chic maternity label also beloved by Markle), has recently launched Babe, a website featuring resources and tools for mothers and soon-to-be mums on a platform that is as visually stylish as it is informative. Blanqi (a go-to for support-wear basics), and New York-based Madri Collection (whose focus is quality textiles tailored to include easily accessible details), are equally progressive, providing practical solutions for pre and post pregnancy wardrobes.
Courtesy of Zara
In addition to the above maternity brands, high-street favorites – Mango, H&M, Zara, and Topshop – all have maternity lines within their seasonal collections, making it possible to shop trend-led items in sizes to suit your trimester.
The above shopping list highlights a selection of standout items from maternity-specific collections – pieces that are both practical and stylish and will inform your pregnancy style while pairing easily with your existing wardrobe…
Read Next: The Duchess of Sussex’s Best Maternity Looks
