A transitional maternity outfit

Retaining some semblance of your personal style while pregnant is tricky. Especially as you hit the final trimester. Looking back at earlier photos, it’s pretty evident how much I’ve “popped” in those final few months. I’ve maintained from the start of my pregnancy that I wanted to focus on wearing primarily non-maternity styles. For me, this was just as much about keeping my closet in check, as it was about versatility.

Wearing Everlane pima cotton tank; Legoe grey ribbed pencil skirt; Everlane open knit cardigan; Dior slingback flats; JW Anderson bag (older version but this red one is one mega sale!); Madewell earrings; Missoma necklace; Fedoma Jewellery necklace; Mejuri bracelet; Chupi ring

I wore this outfit last month – just haven’t had the chance to share it yet – on a mild summer’s day, and it struck me as the perfect transitional look. While I’d typically shy away from fitted silhouettes, they flatter and show off a beautiful bump. For that bit of warmth, I threw on a knitted cardigan. This is a cropped style so works really well with high-waisted bottoms (or if you have a shorter torso).

I’ve shared tips on how I’m maximising my wardrobe for pregnancy previously, but I thought I’d highlight four that I’ve found really useful in my final trimester.

Clothing staples with stretch

This is a total no brainer, but clothing with stretch is a must. I’ve managed to incorporate a lot of non-maternity pieces into my outfits just because they’ve got that little bit of bonus stretch, like the tank I’m wearing above. One thing to keep in mind is that certain fabrics will give or stretch out permanently, so opt for pieces in your closet that you feel confident will snap back down to their original size. I ended up deciding to invest in a second maternity skirt – this one’s from Legoe – for a bit of added variety. I loved that this particular style can be worn both during and post-pregnancy. I’ve washed it a number of times now, and each time it’s snapped back at the waist, so I can already tell it’s going to be a great staple for me once baby is born.

Knits and jackets that can be worn open

Continuing on from that point about being selective about clothing staples that won’t stretch permanently, I’d suggest avoiding your expensive wool sweaters; especially when your bump has truly popped out. Wool tends to mould to the shape of your body, and you may find that it gives a lot at the torso. Instead, opt for knits and jackets that can be worn open for your layering pieces. Cardigans are great, and if you have a style with buttons, you can wear it later on as a top while nursing. I also love a good longline blazer too. Something that covers your bum, and has a bit of structure to it.

Comfortable shoes

I’m counting my lucky stars that I haven’t experienced any swelling in my feet throughout the pregnancy, despite the hot weather. I put a lot of this down to genetics and build more than anything, and keeping properly hydrated. That being said, I can’t stress enough how important I’ve found wearing comfortable shoes are. And shoes that you can easily slip your feet into. Trust me when I say that anything with straps will be hard to put on solo as your belly grows. I’ve opted mostly for slides and slingback flats, or anything with good arch support (like these sandals).

Flowy dresses

I mentioned this in my previous style post, but I have been all about the flowy dresses. Regardless of the length or shape, these are a total no brainer. You can layer a long sleeved top underneath (or a cardigan over top), and the body of the dress will skim over your bump. I’ve stuck to non-maternity styles here in my pre-pregnancy size, so I’m confident I’ll still be able to wear then even after baby is born.