The pandemic has brought about a sharp rise in the number of expectant and new mommies across the world, and we think it’s only fair to celebrate the arrival of new-borns in style.
New mom and model Gigi Hadid, recently displayed a major ‘mommy moment’ at the Moschino Spring 2022 RTW show, with a giant baby bottle in a fitted dress complete with an exaggerated elephant arm (almost like a baby blanket). She dedicated it to her new-born daughter Khai. Fashion and pop icons like Kylie Jenner and Cardi B are also setting the fashion bar high for mommies, flaunting their bumps in crop tops, gold breastplates and sheer dresses paired with bold and bling accessories.
In Bollywood, actresses Kareena Kapoor Khan and Neha Dhupia are doing their bit to celebrate motherhood with fun and glamorous ensembles. Kareena posted a picture of herself wearing an olive high-slit dress from her pregnancy days and wrote, “Whoever said that maternity fashion isn’t a thing was kinda wrong.” Similarly, Neha Dhupia is getting super likes on Instagram for the glam dresses, cute tees, printed jackets and chic jewellery she sported during her second pregnancy.
Haute bumps
The good news in 2021 is, mommies-to-be are ditching the shapeless tent-like outfits and embracing stylish clothes. Pregnant women are breaking the fashion shackles with confidence. And their choices are being accepted and respected in society, says designer Anju Modi.
The Art Livings collaborator’s mantra for women who wish to look beautiful and confident in this period is ‘ability to carry and feel comfortable’. “I am happy that women are now able to express themselves during pregnancy. Women are naturally glamorous; therefore, I think flaunting is an exaggeration,” she says.
“The shapeless garment is not new, we have been using drapes since ancient history — saris, dhotis, and Greek robes. From that perspective, fitted garments are new in our society and symbolise a period of transition, as women are experimenting more. Women are now not afraid of expressing themselves during the most beautiful period of her life, and to carry an outfit with confidence is all that matters,” says Anju.
Glam and glowing
Currently, pregnant ladies are opting for customised outfits and designer slogan tees. Most moms aren’t shying away from embracing their growing bodies; they are celebrating their bellies and enjoying every moment of their pregnancy.
“Mommies are dressing up, going out, and flaunting their baby bump,” notes Surbhi Bhatia, founder of The Mom Store.
Chic comfort
In a world where everyone is telling you to be ‘perfect’, being yourself and loving your body through every phase is necessary and beautiful, says designer duo Anjalee and Arjun Kapoor.
“It is great that women today are confident in their skins and flaunting their baby bumps,” they say, but point out that it is difficult to wear fitted outfits during pregnancy. “However, if you are comfortable and can carry yourself with poise, then do not limit yourself,” is their advice. “One can opt for an eclectic assortment of gowns, midis and kaftans in different designs, patterns and styles as part of the new wardrobe. Pick tailored outfits in skin-friendly fabrics such as cotton, cotton flex, cotton slub and rayon to keep the dresses soft and breathable. Also choose the right kind of nightwear, keeping in mind your needs during the maternity phase.”
Happy mom, happy baby
Research shows that looking good is equivalent to feeling good, and while motherhood can take its toll, with endless breastfeeding sessions and sleepless nights, having comfortable maternity apparel makes a difference.
“Owning your style during pregnancy doesn’t mean wearing fitted outfits, it just means wearing garments that flatter your new body — be it kaftans, tier dresses, belly support leggings, nursing tops, anarkalis or dungarees. The list is endless and so are the style options. Millennial mothers are conscious of their choices and are researching their way through motherhood — on matters of health, lifestyle, parenting techniques and fashion. Don’t overthink; wear what makes you happy,” sums up Surbhi Bhatia.
