Can we all agree to finally retire the term “geriatric pregnancy”? Apparently, because I’ve hit the 35+ mark, that’s the official camp I fall into for baby number two. But having just turned 40 and weeks away from my due date, I’ve honestly never felt more inspired to show off exactly what this body is capable of.
As a fashion stylist with over 15 years of experience dressing every imaginable body type and age—including dressing clients through their own nine-month stretches—I decided to treat this pregnancy as my personal style swan song. I wasn’t going to just “make do”; I was going to celebrate, pushing myself to experiment with new silhouettes and directional cuts I’d never tried before.
Of course, I’m taking cues from the greats. Over the last decade there have been massive cultural shifts thanks to icons like Rihanna, Hailey Bieber and Cardi B, who effectively turned the bump into the ultimate high-fashion accessory. Most recently, Sienna Miller’s relaxed yet polished bump-baring looks proved that boho nonchalance and modern motherhood can (and should) coexist. Seeing her slay at 44 is all the permission I needed to keep the skin-baring looks coming.
So this pregnancy, I challenged myself to avoid maternity-wear and only purchase things I could re-wear after this nine-month journey. And what I’ve learned is that the secret isn’t hidden elastic panels; it’s strategic volume, clever tailoring and choosing fabrics that work with your curves instead of against them.Here are the pieces that worked for me from the first trimester to the homestretch—and that I’ll definitely be keeping in my rotation postpartum.
Low-Rise Jeans
Listen, I never thought my elder-millennial self would suggest a low-rise jean, but for this pregnancy, they’ve been a total lifesaver. Unlike the Christina Aguilera “Dirrty” era horror show I envisioned, today’s rises are civilized and comfortable. They offer a longer wear time as your bump grows and provide the perfect opportunity to show it off. I frequently styled mine for “peek-a-boo” moments with halfway-fastened cardigans, or used longer fitted knits to highlight the silhouette. For a laid-back approach, I paired them with biker jackets and Chelsea boots.
Elastic Waist or Drawstring Bottoms
It’s likely no surprise that I’m suggesting elastic and drawstring bottoms, but let me be clear: I don’t just mean sweats (although those are great too!). Elevated variety—like silk slip skirts and woven pants—offers high-impact texture with built-in ease. I rotated these with everything from lacey bodysuits and leather bombers to oversized tees layered under cardigans. They give you that “high-fashion” impact without the restrictive waistband.
Strategic Proportions
Even when you’re not pregnant, styling is all about balance. With a bump, the goal is to play with volume so you don’t feel swallowed by your clothes. My rule of thumb is creating proportionate silhouettes: pair oversized, chunky knits with a slimmer pant, or try a partial tuck with a wider leg. One of my most-worn outfits—especially in my third trimester—was an oversized cashmere sweater layered over a lace-trim silk tank. It’s a foolproof way to look chic while maintaining total comfort.
Leggings
Another obvious choice, but buttery-soft black leggings are a must-have for the homestretch of your baby-bump era. The trick to keeping them out of the gym and in the “It Girl” lane is thoughtful, structured layering. Try sweater vests over oversized button-downs, or boxy blazers and funnel-neck jackets. A tall boot immediately elevates the legging for a polished look, while classic kicks keep it perfectly athleisure.
Bodycon Tops & Dresses
In the grand scheme of life, you’re only pregnant for a blip—so show it off! Stretchy, body-con pieces hug your curves intentionally and grow with you through every trimester, making them a savvy investment. I “Rihanna’ed” this pregnancy with slinky dresses and crop tops that made me feel more powerful than ever. Depending on how much you want to reveal, try a ribbed sweater dress with sneakers for errands, or add an oversized coat for a sophisticated date-night look.
link