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.

Difficulty: Easy

Instructions

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.

on 11/22/2005 Pick something that you feel comfortable in and that makes you feel gorgeous. Consider having your hair and make-up professionally done. Pregnancy can be hard on vanity and has all sorts of fun side-effects. Feeling fabulous for one night can be worth the extra splurge.

on 11/22/2005 Try bridal consignment shops and large bridal discount stores (like David's Bridal). Bridesmaids' dresses often follow current fashion. Chances are, at least one of the store clerks have had to fit a pregnant bridesmaid.