How to Dress Formally When Pregnant

Oh, the drama of finding something to wear to a black tie or formal occasion. You're apt to press the panic button a little harder when an invitation coincides with your seventh month. Just remember you have plenty of options. Really.

Instructions

Difficulty: Easy

Things You’ll Need:

• Maternity Sandals
• Maternity Shoes
• Maternity Dresses
• Maternity Duos
• Maternity Leggings

1. Dare to show it off. You're bound to run across a stretch velvet or shimmery jersey dress that will highlight all of your assets when slipped over your curves.
2. Check out dresses that have an empire waist or A-line cut. These silhouettes free the belly - just make sure that there's enough room to cover breasts adequately and comfortably.
3. Choose a very simple - even somewhat casual - column dress, and pair it with a wrap or shawl. Pashmina wraps offer understated elegance, while a beaded silk or velvet shawl will dazzle.
4. Pull on a pair of Chinese satin pajamas. The elastic-waist pants and frog-closure jacket provide your belly some room, while the vibrant colors and delicate embroidery will fetch admiring glances.
5. Pair your ensemble with a flat, comfortable shoe. Ballet slippers and low-heeled satin mules make a great substitute for a back-breaking pump.

Tips & Warnings

• Remember that dark colors are generally regarded as more formal, not to mention slimming. Look for shades of sapphire, emerald, ruby, wine and, of course, black.
• Why pay big bucks for something you'll wear only once? Check the phone book for stores that rent formalwear to women, or borrow something from friends or family.
• Buy, borrow or rent appropriate to your size at the time of the event. You may outgrow a piece that you buy for a future date.
• Remember that skirts and dresses will hike up in front as your belly grows. Try everything on and sit down before you head out the door.