Choosing what dress to wear as a wedding guest is always tricky. You’ve got fast fashion trends to keep up with, specific dress codes to consider, and hundreds of different fabrics, cuts and colours to pick from. So it’s understandable that you may be feeling a little daunted at the thought of finding something to wear when you’re expecting.
You need something to flatter your new body shape, covering both you and your bump, breathable but not too revealing, stylish yet still comfortable – and with so many maternity dresses on the market, it can be extremely overwhelming and difficult to know where to begin.
Worry not, because the SilkFred team are experts on the matter. Here, we have pulled together a handy guide on how to style your bump throughout the entire wedding season.
Read on for the ultimate checklist for maternity wedding guest outfits…
Top Tips For Dressing For A Wedding When You’re Pregnant
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What to expect (when you’re expecting) at the wedding: Consider what type of wedding you’re attending. Are you going to the day ceremony or the evening do? Is it a summer garden setting or a city venue? Might you be on a beach or in a castle? Make sure you choose a dress that’s going to be suitable for the location. For example, if it’s a church wedding, you’ll likely need something more reserved, perhaps with sleeves, or if it’s outdoors, you might want a lightweight summer midi dress to keep cool.
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How far away is the wedding? It’s important to consider when the wedding is. If you’re risking it with a tighter fit, and you know the big day is a good couple of months away, it might be an idea to buy one size up, to counter for your growing belly. If you’re shopping in advance, it may be safer to opt for an empire waistline with lots of room in it for your bump to fit comfortably.
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Be yourself! Just because your body is looking a little different, doesn’t mean you need to shy away from your personal style. There are plenty of ways you can still have fun and express yourself through your maternity dress – all you need is a little imagination, some different cuts – and perhaps a little pixie dust!
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Embrace the bump: The female body is an amazing thing. This may be the only time you get to get dolled up whilst you’ve got a bun in the oven. Be proud of what you’re doing and work that bump. After all, the pregnancy glow looks good on you, boo.
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Don’t shop exclusively for maternity: Finally, whilst there are tonnes of gorgeous maternity dresses that are designed to cater around a bump, it’s not necessary to shop exclusively from this section. Simply pick dresses that have stretchy, moveable fabric, and go up a size or two, and you can still wear dresses that feel like you.
Best Maternity Dresses For Church Ceremonies
So you’ve got a church wedding coming up and a bump to cater for? Say hello to your new BFF. The humble wrap dress. These babies are a game changer for adding extra room into your dress, all whilst looking super flattering and stylish, thanks to its stunning neckline.
As you’re probably thinking you want to be fairly covered up for the ceremony, we’d recommend opting for a long dress, perhaps with long sleeves or capped sleeves, for modesty. We love wrap dresses that have a bright pattern or bold print. From feminine floral to super chic spots, there are endless options to jazz up your fit. Accessorise with some beautiful drop earrings, and a shawl that you can glamorously throw over your shoulders if you get cold. Oh so chic, darling!
Best Dresses To Wear When Pregnant For Beach Weddings
Got a beach wedding that you’re unsure how to dress? We’ve got you covered. Beach weddings are all about lightweight, floaty materials – a match made in heaven for pregnant ladies! We’d recommend choosing a flowy midi or maxi dress, that’s got lots of movement.
If you’re on a beach, it’s likely to be hotter climates, so you need to think carefully about fabrics. Opting for something lightweight and breathable, like cotton or linen, will keep you and your baby looking (and feeling) cool.
Accessories-wise, pair your beach wedding dress with comfy sandals, some chic sunglasses, or even a floppy sun hat if you’re feeling extra!
Maternity Dresses For Evening Ceremonies
The best thing about evening do’s is that the rules are even more relaxed when it comes to the wardrobe, so you have even more choice on the cut and style of your dress. Have fun with the shape, but make sure it’s something you’re still comfortable in. We think that one-shoulder dresses look super flattering when you’re carrying a little one, as do playful skater dresses if you want to go for something a little shorter.
Pair your one-shoulder dress with dainty accessories, such as drop earrings or a pendant necklace, and add a statement clutch to really make an impression at the soirée.
Still need some more inspiration as to what to wear to an evening ceremony? Check out our blog post on maternity party and night-out outfit ideas.
Maternity Dresses For Black Tie Weddings
Regency-core is back, baby! And good thing too, because empire lines are the most flattering shape for when you’re carrying a little bundle of joy. Hurrah!
There are plenty of floor-length dresses out there with an empire line that will fit the black-tie dress code. We’d recommend choosing something a block colour, to help elongate your figure, and accessorise with some simple jewellery, such as some elegant drop earrings.
Simply slide into some stylish ballet flats, grab your favourite clutch bag, and you’ll be ready to channel your inner Elizabeth Bennett.
Are you pregnant and also a bridesmaid for your upcoming wedding? Check out our collection of stunning maternity bridesmaid dresses that will help you feel comfy and confident all day long.
