Let me start by saying, this is my favorite time of year! That being said, the holiday season can be stressful — especially when you're pregnant with events to attend, during which you cannot indulge in the old Champers the way you may have in previous years! But don’t let the lack of alcohol and your increasingly daunting belly get in the way of having fun dressing for the holiday season. After all, you get to indulge in all the goodies, guilt-free! Here’s my style guideline for looking chic, comfortable (and appropriate) at all your holiday events this season. 

What should I look for while holiday maternity shopping?

Comfort and warmth are musts — pair thick leggings or a pair of jeans with an oversized sweater, chic coat, and sturdy boots. I always have a hat, scarf, and gloves on hand. Make sure your sweater underneath isn’t too bulky (avoid heavy wools as you can heat up from brisk walking and going in and out of heated stores and instead focus on layers of lighter fabrics).

What do I wear to an after-work holiday party?

A desk to dinner dress is always on my list of maternity must-haves…just add a little festive detail or accessory. Try a subtly festive print or bright color (pomegranate is a fresh take on the holiday reds) or a black shift with a fab pair of statement earrings. Wear the dress sans accessories with flats during the day and slip on a closed toe wedge or heel at night and add on the sparkle.

What the best look for a cocktail/mocktail holiday party with friends?

Rock the bump! While your friends may be battling the holiday bloat from booze and sweets, you do not have to suck in your belly. Choose a silhouette that hugs your body and fabric that is thick enough to cover the other bumps and lumps you don’t want showing. I love fabrics that contain nylon in them as they wick away any unsightly sweat marks also (and you never know you may be dancing!).

What do I wear to a black tie event or on New Year's Eve?

Flaunt your best asset. You are going to want to feel good about yourself when you are surrounded by people dressed in their finest — so if your feeling your legs are fab, don’t be tied down to long and go for short with eye-catching embellishment and details. When you're pregnant you can get away without floor-length gowns, even when the occasion would normally call for one.

Can I be comfy and fashionable for a family holiday dinner?

Unless it’s an ugly sweater themed party, keep it chic in sleek maternity pants (dark denim or ponte) and blouse. Go for comfortable but put together. Try and pop color lip stain in hot pink or orange coral for a statement and keep the eyes simple with large lashes. 

Most of all, be comfortable in what you are wearing because carrying yourself with confidence is half the battle in looking good!