What is it about going to parties when you’re pregnant to make you want to run for the hills? Perhaps it’s the blanket of tiredness combined with the undeniable fact that you feel the size of whale that you might well wonder whether you can ever summon back your mojo and get in the party spirit. I’m not saying that you need the whole makeover when you’re pregnant at all, in fact I think it’s important to keep your own style identity and just max up the glamour and make the most of your best new features: luxurious, thick, shiny locks or your gorgeous new cleavage. The mantra should be to dress to impress, not in spite of being pregnant but because you have a bump on board.

FASHION
Emily Evans, glamorous mother-of-three and the founder and owner of 9 London maternity boutique suggests that navy is the flattering colour this season. ‘If you want to be bold, go for a statement block colour dress or, if it’s ultra glam, a full-length patterned dress. If your ankles are feeling swollen, try a tapered evening trouser suite and cute silk top.’  If you are going to a party where you expect lots of pregnant friends, then seek out some vintage or hire a dress so your style can be unique. Emily says, ‘When it comes to accessories, take it to the max and pile on lots of gold jewellery and you will turn heads!  Your beautiful bump is the best accessory and it also allows you to get away with a little extra bling.’  Emily’s advice when it comes to the shoe department is simple: if you can’t slip out of those stilettos then save wearing them for very special occasions and the ultimate in dressy parties. A couple of hours occasionally should do no harm but flats do look great with the right outfit. Jewelled thongs with a striking maxi dress is a great look. Christopher Kane recently sent all his models out on the catwalk in flats and the fashion pack loved it.  They really are no longer seen as glamour’s no-no. 

HAIR
Luckily for those who have developed  thick, gorgeous pregnancy hair, the look of the moment is the timeless glamour of  Hollywood icons. It screams super chic and is a sure way you will be turning heads. Stars like Katy Perry and Christina Hendricks have all embraced vintage styling techniques bringing it bang up to date. The team from Powder Puffs and Pin Curls assure me that the best way to create a killer look is to dig out those heated rollers…yes, heated rollers! This blast from the past is once again a girl’s best friend as they create volume, curls and instant sex appeal. Their stylist tip is to put them in while doing your make up and, once set and cool, you can brush through, with a soft brush to loosen the curl a la Rita Hayworth. Pin it up for instant Marilyn Monroe and the best part is that these styles suit all hair types and most face shapes.

SKIN
Skin is usually more sensitive when you’re pregnant so less is definitely more on the make-up front and choose products that are chemical and fragrance free. Jemma Kidd found that her sense of smell was extremely heightened during pregnancy so she found it essential to avoid anything heavily scented. Mineral powder foundations are perfect for oily skin, as the oil helps the powder to be absorbed, giving a natural finish but crème blush, bronzer and eyeshadows are often wax-based and can lead to blocked pores. If your skin is dry during pregnancy, make-up will sit on the surface of skin, so moisturise well and use a serum under foundation.

A light moisturising liquid foundation will work better for you than other formulations as this will glide on easily whereas powder products will sit in any creases and draw attention to fine lines and flaky patches. Crème blush is preferable to powder blush for the same reason. If you feel like your lips are dehydrated, stay away from petroleum based lip products and opt for wax based balms instead.  It is a bit miserable if you nurse a glass of water all evening so if you have the option, ask the barman to make your favourite cocktail but without the alcohol; and with sparkling wine you won’t miss out on the bubbles.