Pregnancy Style Tips With… Jo Holley

Pregnancy Style Tips With… Jo Holley

How to dress a bump is such a frequently asked question, we thought we'd take it straight to a woman in the know. Jo Holley, aka The Edit Button, is the former Vogue editor with impeccable taste, which – naturally – she's translated into pregnancy style. Here are her top rules for getting it right from start to finish...
Photography: @THEEDITBUTTON
Photography: @THEEDITBUTTON

1. Layer The Bump

I've always been a fan of layering – shirts over tops, blazers under coats – and pregnancy doesn't need to change that. A blazer is a great layer to conceal but not completely hide a bump and works as the perfect piece to keep power-dressing in play. I layer an oversized chunky rollneck under a boyfriend-style blazer for a casual yet put-together everyday look.

2. Balance With The Chunky Boot

It's definitely boot weather now, and there are plenty of amazing flat chunky-sole biker boots to choose from. A pregnant lady’s best friend, this style of boot adapts to most outfits and has become a frontrunner in my wardrobe. The chunkier the sole, the more it flatters a growing bump. I wear mine with jumper dresses and over leggings for dressed-down style, providing plenty of comfort and a relief to tired feet.

3. Choose Leather-Look Leggings

Probably my most-worn item through pregnancy, leather-look leggings with the obligatory elasticated waist are the perfect option for those who want maximum comfort while retaining a polished finish. They look great with oversized rollnecks, tunic tops, or under knit dresses. I've been wearing mine with my husband's shirts and heels for evenings out. 

4. Go All Out With Knitwear

I've fully embraced knitwear this year, and I don't just mean the odd jumper. There are some gorgeous woollen midi skirts, detailed cardigans, knit trousers, cashmere leggings and long-length jumper dresses to wrap the bump in. I've been embracing the knit co-ords with Mango’s matching column skirt and oversized cardigan. Not only is the set super comfortable, it looks well put together and current.

5. Distract With A Collar

An easy way to divert attention from a growing bump is to distract with an alternative detail such as a collar. A pretty trend suited to pregnancy, collars are being worn to add another dimension to t-shirts, dresses and knitwear. They are the perfect accessory to add interest to a casual outfit and a collared cardigan has become a pregnancy staple.

6. Invest In A Statement Coat

Wrapping the bump in a statement piece like a standout coat puts a unique fashion spin on maternity wear. I love oversized teddy coats for the colder months of pregnancy. Texture can add interest to an outfit, even if you've just got maternity leggings and an oversized sweatshirt underneath. This super-cosy coat will take interest away from your bump if you're not a fan of it being the main focus.

7. Belt Up

If oversized isn't your thing, then embrace new curves and opt for a more figure-hugging silhouette with the addition of a belt. I've been raising my waistline by a few inches and wearing my belts above my bump with midi skirts and fine knits tucked in for a more form-fitting off-duty look. It's probably not a look I would have styled pre-pregnancy but somehow a belted bump has made me more confident to show off my growing shape.

8. Style Your Staples

I've always worn this style of skirt so have enjoyed being able to embrace my sense of style and still wear this favourite item from my wardrobe. Don't be afraid to wear one pulled up above the bump with an oversized tunic, poplin shirt or belted jumper tucked in. Worn with flats or heels, it makes me feel comfortable, yet polished, throughout pregnancy, and is a perfect option for working mamas-to-be or as an evening look.

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