Stylist tips for chic maternity fashion

Deepika Padukone’s maternity wear. Pics courtesy/Instagram

For fashion-loving celebrity mums-to-be (Rihanna, we're looking at you), maternity wear has been taking on a bold, sexy new avatar - tight, sleek and bump-highlighting fits. While they are awe-inspiring, they also can be quite impractical for Mumbai mums-to-be, especially in our hot and muggy summers. And so, actor Deepika Padukone's decision to favour flowing, loose garments with forgiving waistlines and more relaxed cuts seems like a much-needed breath of fresh air. Although decidedly streamlined with a more feminine view of maternity clothing, her looks have been inspiring women across the city to choose chic comfort with confidence, all over again.

Alia Bhatt in a wrap dress; (right) Richa Chadha wears a co-ord set

"Comfort remains the top priority during pregnancy, which makes most women opt for clothing that marries form with function. The cut, waistline and choice of fabric should be important considerations when you pick out your maternity wardrobe," explains Sonal Kharade, a costume designer. She, and stylist Amrita Saluja, offer a few tips to keep hot mamas feeling cool!

>> Cuts to accentuate
Soft breathable fabrics such as muslin, cotton and linen are no-brainers in this regard, says Saluja. "Opt for maxi dresses or jumpsuits with a low crotch in these fabrics, or pick out comfortable co-ord sets in a relaxed fit," she advises. Kharade recommends fit-and-flare or A-line dresses that look sharp without compromising on comfort. She notes that petite women will look best in a wrap style or a dress with an empire waist that sits right below the bust. These, she says, lengthen your frame and accentuate the narrowest part of your torso, without engulfing you in swathes of fabric. Further, pleated, mid-length skirts are especially popular this year, and can be easily styled up or down, depending on the occasion.

>> Make a statement
"Don't be afraid to experiment with prints and stripes, and add plenty of accessories to make your look truly your own. Pick either your wrist or neck to create a statement look. If you are wearing anything with long sleeves, pull them up so that your wrists are visible. Similarly, wear slightly cropped pants that expose your ankles - this adds definition," Saluja explains.

Amrita Saluja and Sonal Kharade

>> Ace the athleisure look
Maternity activewear is a growing market segment, patronised by women who want to look chic, keep active and stay comfortable. When shopping, opt for styles that offer tummy support and look for softer, more breathable fabrics that offer just the right amounts of compression," suggests Kharade. If you are a more adventurous dresser, opt for a unitard or a jumpsuit, layered with an oversized button-up shirt.

>> Go big on accessories
Chunky sneakers, big bags, wrists layered with accessories, and cute hair bands and big scrunchies are all easy ways to dress up your pregnancy, says Saluja. As a pro tip, Kharade suggests wearing bump-supporting shorts underneath your dresses and skirts to help with back pain.