Thursday 30 May 2013

Bargain maternity fashion item of the day: Batwing maternity t-shirt from Zara

With the UK supposedly entering summer - someone may want to give the weather that memo- we're continuing to pick up staple pieces for our wardrobes.

And mums-to-be looking for those key pieces definitely need this bargain maternity t-shirt in their lives.

Coming in at a cool £9.99, this batwing maternity t-shirt from Zara's maternity range, is a perfect capsule piece going with just about anything in your wardrobe.

And the best thing is it comes in lots of colours from simple black and white to on-trend orange or bright pink.

Stick it on with a pair of maternity skinny jeans and wedges or layer over a vest top for a simple breastfeeding option after the birth.

Top five: Summer maternity cardigans

Fear not, we've not turned into your granny with today's post. We're just a little bit in love with the versatility of cardigans.

Over the years these little wardrobe staples have moved on from the traditional Dot Cotton style, bringing any mum-to-be stylish warmth in the British summer weather. And it seems the maternity and mainstream world agrees, offering a huge range of amazing styles to choose from.

The great thing about buying a maternity cardigan - we know they can be slightly pricier - is that they have been designed to stretch with your bump, which is great for mums-to-be looking for the traditional button up style. Others have also been created to double up as nursing aids, providing coverage when buttoned up and easy access at the same time, which in our eyes makes them a great investment. 

However, mums on a budget needn't miss out with mainstream styles also an option here too. Opt for a wrap cardigan, which can be adjusted as your bump grows or go for a waterfall style that stays open meaning you won't have to worry about it becoming too small as your bump grows.

Below are some of our fave maternity cardigans available on the virtual highstreet.

Wear loosely over a maxi dress or team up over a vest top and maternity jeans for a casual summer look.

ASOS Maternity Exclusive Wrap Cardigan in Neppi, £28

Breton Stripe Waterfall Cardigan, £29, Jojo Maman Bebe

Non maternity option: Linen Waterfall Cardigan, £18, Matalan

Blue Linen Waterfall Maxi Cardigan, £52, Seraphine Maternity

Maternity Cardigan, Vertbaudet, £35

Wednesday 29 May 2013

Kate Middleton to show off her maternity style at the 60th anniversary of the Queen's Coronation.

Fans of Kate Middleton's maternity style will get their fashion fix next week.

According to the lovely ladies over at Marie Claire, the Duchess will be making an appearance at the 60th anniversary of the Queen's Coronation.

She will show off her baby bump, alongside other royals, including hubby Price William, on the 4 June at a special service that will take pace at Westminster Abbey.

However, it seems that nearly eight months pregnant Kate won't be staying for the after party, with reports that she's been given leave after the ceremony.

And fans of Kate's fashion will have to embrace the appearance as this seems to be  one of the last appointments for the Duchess until the impending birth. 

We can't wait to see what she'll be wearing.

Summer beach maternity tankinis and tankini tops

With many of us swapping the UK's fickle weather for warmer climes, the need for beachwear has never been so in demand.

And if you're anything like us, we bet you can't wait to show off that bump, whether its just sprouting or a little bit more obvious, on the beach.

Although Kim Kardashian and Gisele opted for skimpy bikinis to show off their baby bodies, we know that these aren't for everyone.

We also know that some yummy mummies-to-be may not want the restraints that come with a maternity swimming costume and this makes a maternity tankini a perfect compromise.

We heart the fashion implications this little piece of swimwear offers, allowing you to mix and match bottoms and tops, while being comfy and supporting your bump at the same time.

Opt for a floral top and buy a few bottoms to update the look or stick to bold contrasting hues, which channel the block trend perfectly.

Below are just some of our fave finds.

Maternity Halterneck Mirror Floral Tankini Top, Marks and Spencer, £22.50

Floral Tankini, £30, Mamas and Papas

Black Gather Tankini, £20, Next
Maternity Stripe Tankini, £19, Topshop

F&F Ditsy Print Maternity Tankini Top, £12, Tesco Clothing


Tuesday 28 May 2013

Summer maternity dresses for the office and formal events

Finding that perfect maternity dress for the office can be a difficult task.

Not only does it have to be comfortable but also smart enough for those meetings.

It also has to be versatile enough to grow with your bump and curves as well as not look too "officy" if you decide to wear it to a formal event.

We recommend picking two frocks which will form the staple part of your work based maternity wardrobe.

A wrap dress is a perfect option for this type of event offering classic formal style, while accentuating curves.

A ruched dress is also another option for showing off that bump as well as ensuring you have a style that grows with you.

If you're more of a LBD kinda girl then opting for a linen number will ensure you stay cool throughout the summer, whilst opting for a polka dot print will channel an on-trend office look.

We've picked some of our fave styles, which can be accessorised up or down for any formal or office occasion. 

Judy Maternity Wrap Dress, £95, Isabella Oliver

Stripe ruched maternity dress, Next, £25

MAMA Dress £12.99, H&M

Black linen midi dress, Jojo Maman Bebe, £39

Key Hole Back Spot Dress, Crave Maternity, £95