One of the most enduring questions of our time has to be, admittedly: “How does Kate Middleton look so perfect all the time?” The Duchess of Cambridge has a knack for nailing the look: Every. Single. Time.
Granted, she probably has a talented style squad working behind-the-scenes. She is royalty after all. Nonetheless, here are 5 lessons we can learn from the one of the best-dressed baby bumps of all time, which are totally suitable for Singapore’s hot and humid weather!
TIP #1. Wear a dress with sheer panels
Images: Corbis
Whether it’s sheer panels on the sleeves, across the shoulders or along the bottom of the dress (just not the midsection!), the translucent effect takes the attention away from the bump and directs the viewer’s gaze to the exposed and thinly-veiled skin. This black lace gown by Diane von Furstenberg is the perfect example of that.
New Look Maternity lace bodycon dress, $60.60 from asos.com
TIP #2. Go for a peplum top
We all know by now what a peplum top does to our figure: It makes us look like we’ve been working out like, real hard. Accentuate your peplum top as Kate has done here with a belt! Notice how all the attention goes to the waist? Then, pair it with a flowy skirt to conceal the bump. Also, note the top she’s sporting: Sheer at the shoulders! (Refer to Tip #1)
Eva Alexander silk tunic, $139.05 from nordstrom.com
TIP #3. The wrap dress (or some variation of it)
This is one of the surest ways to get elegant maternity style, by going for one of the most stylish innovations in fashion’s history. The wrap dress, signified by the knotted effect on the side of the ribcage, draws attention up and away from the baby bump, while the textured folds shows off the pregnant silhouette subtly and gracefully.
Ingrid & Isabel wrap dress, $124.86 from nordstrom.com
TIP #4. Wear a collared dress
Don’t let the baby bump get in the way of pulling off a polished look! The takeaway here is to wear something with a neat collar. The idea of it resembles a schoolgirl uniform and frees you from buying only frumpy-looking silhouettes!
Paper Dolls pencil dress, $121.29 from asos.com
TIP #5. Go for a solid coloured dress with discreet details
This coat is one of my favourite pieces from the Duchess’ wardrobe of sartorial hits. Go for a dress that is a solid colour with subtle accents on the shoulders and the sleeves. Details add surprising visual contrast and earns your maternity style a few sartorial points instantly.
Seraphine navy maternity dress, from seraphine.com