Before my pregnancy, I assumed I would have to buy lots of new maternity clothes — but in fact, I quickly realised I could continue wearing most of my normal clothes for the majority of my pregnancy. Staples such as suede jackets, white shirts, and cashmere jumpers (provided they weren’t fitted) could easily be layered over some newer, stretchier pieces I purchased — most of which came from Zara.
Having spent my whole working life in fashion, being able to memorise the in-store layout of most brands on the High Street comes with the territory, which also meant I was familiar with the maternity sections of most stores long before I was pregnant. The one thing that always surprised me was the number of stripy Breton tops filling the rails amidst other uninspiring pieces. I never once wore a Breton top while pregnant and would discourage anyone else from doing so — unless, of course, you loved Bretons pre-pregnancy. The idea that wearing horizontal stripes is encouraged when your bust and waist are expanding rapidly, in my opinion, goes against everything I’ve learned about what flatters my own body shape.
Being pregnant comes with many happy moments, but it can also be incredibly challenging — both mentally and physically. One of the biggest challenges for me was watching my body change shape and having to adapt to the various areas that grew in size. Whilst I was in awe, there were also moments of frustration at not being able to wear my favourite jeans or skirts — but I quickly learned which pieces I should buy instead.
Ribbed dresses and knitted trousers became my go-tos, most of which I found in Zara. Now, Zara doesn’t exclusively do maternity wear, but they have by far the best selection of pieces on the High Street that work both during pregnancy and beyond. Nine times out of ten during my pregnancy, I wore dresses. From knitted midis to bias-cut slips that hugged my bump — find a style that fits well and you can layer it under various existing items in your wardrobe, including a leather jacket, maxi cardigan, tailored blazer, and more.
Elasticated waistbands become your best friend while pregnant — and they’re something Zara does a lot of. From wide-leg palazzos to cropped kick-flare trousers, as someone who loves wearing jeans, I found ample options to replace them, meaning I wasn’t tempted to splurge on a pair of maternity jeans.
When it came to going on holiday, again, summer dresses and kaftans were my saviours, and super-stretchy crinkle swimsuits were not only comfortable but also made me feel more confident thanks to their thick fabric.
So, I felt it only fair to share that Zara is my pregnancy shopping secret — and I’ve also done the trawling of what's currently in store, so you don’t have to. Check out my edit below.
Ps. Don't forget to size up!
Shop Zara maternity
This bias-cut dress is the perfect example of how important the cut of a piece of clothing is when pregnant. The give in the fabric means it will hug your bump without needing to fit perfectly.
The oversized cut of this shirt will make it a great layering piece and allow for a larger bust.
A drawstring waistband is a must when pregnant and the vertical stripes and fluid fabric of these trousers together make them ideal for expanding waistbands.
Super stretchy crinkle fabric swimsuits are perfect when pregnant and the thicker fabric provides additional comfort.
If you're looking for a smarter option, layer this checked shirt over a pair of leggings or stretchy cropped flares, and accessorise with a pair of kitten heels or pointy flats. As styled in this image, leaving it unbuttoned will allow for more movement.
These knitted cropped flares are exactly the style of trousers I found most flattering during pregnancy. The pearl trim around the hem is a great way to add detail whilst keeping lines and prints cleaner on top.
Loose and floaty - are two words that are all you need from maternity clothes.
This super stretchy and perfect for a bump. It is pretty short so I would only really recommend for shorter frames or it might ride up at the front.
Lace trim slips are an easy way to feel more dressed up without having to put in much effort (something I lacked the energy for a lot during my pregnancy). The v-neck also helps to frame larger busts too.
These stripy trousers sold out almost immediately when they first landed in store. They're back are a no-brainer.
Wrap around tops in fabrics that allow for stretch and movement were my go-to during pregnancy. They also work well pregnancy if you choose to breastfeed.
A knitted coord like this set can be worn in spring and layered over or under a warmer layer in winter. Easily dressed up or down its a super versatile maternity option.
The high neck and loose fit of this top will make it easy to conceal a wireless bandeau bra - something I wore a lot whilst pregnant.
Being comfortable doesn't mean you can't dress up. A silky slip can be styled with the matching top, white best top or oversized knit.
A-line shapes and billowy fluid fabrics allow for a growing bump and can add interest to otherwise simple outfits.
