My Pregnancy Style Rules: Stephanie Waxberg
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I would describe my style as classic, neutral and a little overdressed. This is my first pregnancy, but my style has stayed much the same. My bump didn't show for quite a while, so I continued to wear quite a lot of my existing wardrobe and just sized-up when it came to buying new pieces. Once my bump became more visible, I tried to really embrace it and continued to wear fitted styles that were more flattering on me. I haven't really bought many maternity clothes – just a couple of pairs of black leggings and stretchy ruched dresses from Norma Kamali and Club L London.
My second trimester was when I started to size up. I actually did a video with SheerLuxe back in March when I was around 17 weeks, and I was wearing some chocolate brown leather trousers and an oversized white shirt. I'd sized up and told the team the happy news, but we were able to keep it under wraps because it really wasn't noticeable. I announced my pregnancy on Instagram at 24 weeks, so it's been nice to properly ‘dress the bump’ during my third trimester.
When it comes to planning outfits, comfort and polish are key. I love to wear a slightly oversized blazer, and at the start, I would wear them with boyfriend jeans or wide leg suit trousers and a bodysuit or shirt. As my pregnancy has progressed, I've worn more fitted jersey or knit dresses, which are comfortable but still smart and supportive.
My maternity wardrobe is all about mixing and matching different pieces. I basically think of it like a capsule wardrobe, and tend only to buy pieces in black, white, cream, beige and brown so everything works together. It helps you transcend the seasons, too – and keeps outfit planning really simple.
The best pieces in my wardrobe that have transitioned through the trimesters are my favourite blazer from The Frankie Shop, some oversized shirts and my favourite heels from Aquazzura – yes, I’ve still been wearing heels! Two star buys have been Norma Kamali's ‘Diana’ dress and a Christopher Esber chiffon dress.
My favourite pregnancy look so far is the monochrome outfit I wore for Royal Ascot. It’s one of my favourite events and this year felt like the first time my bump properly showed. I decided to wear something fitted to avoid having any ‘is she, isn’t she’ moments. I wore a beautiful white ribbed Self Portrait dress with gold textured buttons, a gold chainmail oversized headband from Jane Taylor, an Aspinal Mayfair bag and my Aquazzura wedding shoes that were recently revived by The Restory, with some 80s style jewellery from Soru, Anisa Sojka and Heavenly London. I felt great and had such a positive reaction – plus, I know I'll wear all those pieces again.
One brand I’ve relied on during pregnancy is Self Portrait. I love its chic knit dresses because they stretch to fit my bump. Bumpsuit is also brilliant for soft jersey pieces that you can dress up or dress down, and Pretty Lavish is great for affordable knit dresses.
I have definitely been wearing more statement jewellery throughout my pregnancy. I love the chunky gold necklaces from Anisa Sojka's collaboration with Juliet Angus and Heavenly London's collaboration with Flavia Stuttgen. About halfway through my pregnancy I also invested in the holy grail of handbags – an Hermès Herbag 31 in black Hunter leather and canvas with gold hardware.
There was a time when I wasn't sure if I'd be able to have a baby, so pregnancy has been a really special experience. I'm in awe of my body and I've been really lucky to have had a good pregnancy, so far. Dressing my changing figure has been a source of joy. I never realised how much people would stare at my bump and I definitely have felt a little self-conscious at times – but you just have to be proud of your changing shape.
My advice is to wear what feels right for you. I thought fitted pieces suited my style best, but some of my pregnant friends have preferred wearing more oversized styles. Taller Marmo has some great styles if you prefer that look. And don't shy away from wearing your fun party pieces – I've still loved wearing sparkly party dresses and heels.
Instagram is one of my favourite places for pregnancy style inspiration. Saasha Burns, Maria Kragmann and Rosie Huntington-Whiteley all had amazing pregnancy wardrobes, and Bettina Looney looks incredible in her high fashion looks right now.
Follow @StephanieWaxberg on Instagram.
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