Summer dressing while pregnant

#29weekspregnant and it’s strange but so exciting to know that in less than three months, we’ll be finally meeting our wee one. Summer has come up so quick, and despite being the summer baby that I am, I haven’t been looking forward to it in the same way as previous years. February tends to be the hottest month here in Sydney, and also the same month that I’ll be facing my final four weeks of pregnancy (or six, should baby come late!). So nailing down my summer wardrobe for pregnancy has been pretty high on the priority list; I want to feel like myself (even with a big bump in tow!), while opting for fabrics that’ll keep me cool and comfortable on those 37+ deg C days.

Wearing Sussan leopard print linen mini dress, Vaneli two tone pumps (also here), Louis Vuitton Neverfull (MM size), Missoma earrings & bracelet, Mejuri dome bracelet & shell necklace, Fedoma Jewellery necklace & ring

Perhaps the biggest thing for me, has been investing wisely in any new wardrobe additions. Given that I have just another 11 weeks to go, I’m more determined than ever to avoid picking up any additional maternity pieces. And, it’s not that I don’t think that maternity items are useful. Far from it. I’ve invested in a couple pairs of jeans (which I thought would work post pregnancy too), some denim shorts and a stretch skirt, which have been great to mix in with what I already have. But ultimately, it’s more making a point of utilising what I have, and being conscientious about what I do buy.

Instead, I’ve been looking to my usual favourite stores and brands, to see what styles would work both for pregnancy, and after (if I can wear it while nursing, that’s a plus!). More out of ease than anything, my pregnancy style has revolved around a handful of fitted and floaty dresses. So today I’m sharing some styling tips that I’ve used to make summer dressing while pregnant a breeze and make the most of what I have.

#1: Natural fibres all the way

I tend to prioritise natural fibres as a rule of thumb, and summer is a heavy hitter when it comes to my favourite fabrics; soft washed linens and gauzy cottons. Basically, anything breathable is a winner when it comes to summer dressing. It gets hot and humid in here so heavy fabrics or anything synthetic that’ll stick to your body are a total no-go.

#2: Stretchy waistbands FTW

When it comes to skirts, anything with a stretch waistband is typically a winner. And in my usual size, too. Instead of defining my natural waist, I pull the skirt up a little higher to sit at the smallest point under my bust. I’ve been able to extend the life (throughout my pregnancy, that is) of some classic wardrobe staples in my closet as a result!

#3: Belt it to define the waist

One of the key things I tend to focus on when building any outfit are proportions. And it’s even more true during pregnancy, particularly as our bodies are changing so rapidly. Depending on the cut and the style, I’ve found it easy to feel a little “lost” in oversized or voluminous dresses. What I’m trying to say is, they aren’t always that flattering on the bump. An easy fix is to grab a skinny belt, and use this to define your “waist”. Again, I’m talking that portion of your torso that sits between your bump and your bust – just don’t cinch it in too tightly that it’s uncomfortable!

#4: Have a try-on session

The things in your pre-pregnancy wardrobe that still fit during your third trimester may surprise you. Take some time out one afternoon and have a bit of a try-on session. See what still works (and what doesn’t), and put anything that’s too much of a squeeze to one side. I ended up packing away all my super skinny jeans and anything with a fixed waist, and don’t intend to reincorporate those back into my closet until a couple months after pregnancy. This way, you can see at a glance what fits you, and getting dressed each morning will be smooth sailing.

#5: Think about versatility

My final tip around summer dressing while pregnant has to do with new purchases. If you’re buying something new, buy it with versatility in mind. For me what this means is only adding items to my wardrobe that I can not only wear now, but that I’ll *want* to reach for later. Another thing to think about is whether it can be worn beyond the current season, too. Bonus points if they’re nursing-friendly.