You’re considering how to approach the exciting but daunting task of shopping for maternity wear. En vogue or maximum comfort? Stylish or functional? We think you can have it both ways. You may be ready to embrace the changes your body is about to experience and go all-out in selecting a new wardrobe. Or you may be in nervous denial, promising yourself you’ll last the course in your favourite pair of skinny jeans and a couple of oversized shirts.

Whichever camp you find yourself in - don’t worry. There’s no right or wrong way to experience pregnancy - just try to surround yourself with supportive people who will encourage you along the way. We’ve got a few tips to help you start, before we take a look at Autumn/ Winter 2021 top trends for maternity fashion. 

Where do I begin with maternity fashion?

Take It Slowly

Your body changes gradually during the first three to four months of pregnancy so there’s no need to start panic buying. Have a look at your current wardrobe to find any pieces you could adapt.

You might be surprised to find a dress that could morph into a long shirt over leggings as your bump begins to grow. Or a skirt you can wear higher up on your waist. Dress them up for your working day with an oversized blazer and you’re all set.

Scorchio or Sub Zero?

Work out what season you will be spending the last trimester in and buy accordingly. The latter stages of pregnancy can be a little uncomfortable in hot weather - so make sure you have some comfy sandals you can slip on (not bend down and tie up) and a few lightweight summer dresses and boyfriend shirts.

But for frosty mornings and dark evenings, we can’t ignore the ever-growing puffer coat trend. Isabel Marant and Louis Vuitton are jumping on the bandwagon and it really is a season-must. Check out JoJo Maman Bebe’s 2-in-1 maternity puffer coat in navy and get kitted out. 

Wardrobe Essentials

When you do feel ready to make a few purchases, buy pieces that grow with you. Coat, dresses, leggings, underwear - the top four items you absolutely need on your list. 

1. Underwear 

It’s not just your bump that grows during pregnancy. Due to increased progesterone levels and growing milk ducts, your breasts will grow - sometimes by one or two cup sizes. And sometimes from as early as week 6 of your pregnancy. Book yourself in for a professional measuring during the first trimester and treat yourself to some well-fitting bras that can help with breast, back and neck pain. You won’t regret it. 

2. Leggings

We don’t know any expectant woman who hasn’t bought leggings. A true pregnancy staple. It’s absolutely worth investing in some super-soft, organic cotton leggings to see you through your second and third trimester. They’ll also come in handy post-birth, when being comfortable is ultra-important. Sit the waistband under or over your bump, depending on your preference, and style with tunic dresses, your husband’s shirt or an oversized sweater. 

3. Coat

Protect yourself from the elements with something that can zip, tie or button over your bump during rainy or cold weather. You don’t necessarily need to limit your choice to a maternity coat - selecting something mainstream a few sizes too big might just work perfectly.

4. Dresses

Effortless, romantic and comfortable. Make sure you have one for every occasion - prairie, kaftan, bodycon - the options are endless. Dress up or down, bronzed legs in the Autumn sun or cosy tights in the winter. No tightening waistbands, buttons or zips in sight. 

Now you know where to begin, here are some insights into upcoming maternity fashion trends for Autumn/ Winter 2021. 

Maternity Fashion Trends Autumn/ Winter 2021

Oversized knits

Get ready to wrap up and feel cosy this winter with chunky, oversized cardigans and knitted dresses. We’re anticipating maximum comfort as the nights draw in and temperatures begin to fall. For that perfect autumnal ensemble, pair a long jumper or tunic dress with flat, leather winter boots in a deep tan shade.

           
Chloé Fall/ Winter 2021                             JoJo Maman Bebe blouson-sleeve knitted dress
 

Chloé, Fendi, Gabriela Hearst et al are behind the oversized knits trend and we’re not complaining. Snuggle up at home with one or two of our DockATot Quintessentially Morris decorative pillows you’ll be set for the change in season. 

DockATot Quintessentially Morris decorative pillows

Going places

Party wear this season is being taken to another level. We’re anticipating sequins, gold, velvet - no shrinking violets allowed. So if you have any upcoming formal events, black-tie parties, family get-togethers or just want an excuse to dress up, you have permission to step out in style.

                              
Tiffany Rose Isabella gown in Glitter      Tiffany Rose Mia gown in Dusky Black Truffle

Doubling up 

When it comes to maternity fashion, shopping for maternity and nursing wear combined is not only a brilliant idea, it’s actually a possibility. 

Whilst it’s completely normal and acceptable to focus on getting from ‘now’ to the birth, it’s also helpful to look beyond. (See our recent article on ‘Preparing for Life After Birth’ for helpful tips on this). Why not get ultra-organised and choose a couple of maternity pieces that double up as nursing clothes? Their versatility will see you through many weeks of change, and you won’t be compromising on style. 

                 Maternity and nursing wrap tie dress from JoJo Maman Bebe. 

We think choosing a new wardrobe for your growing bump can be an exciting and rewarding experience. Can mums-to-be confidently dress with both style and comfort? Absolutely.