Unconventional Pregnancy Outfits Inspired By Rihanna's Bold Maternity Style
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When Rihanna debuted her baby bump for the first time, it was one of those core pop culture moments, where everyone remembers where they were when it happened. Standing under the arches of an overpass in Harlem, Rihanna posed in a bright vintage Chanel coat from the '90s, baggy jeans, and layered gold jewelry—her belly on full display. She instantly, with a single look, shifted people's perceptions of maternity style as they knew it.
“I think that over the last couple of years, maternity style has definitely evolved,” says Jennifer Nisan, owner of luxury shopping company Front Row Live. “When I was pregnant 10 years ago, I ran to a maternity store, and I bought strictly maternity tops and pants.” Bump-accommodating clothing has a reputation for being predictable, and often makes people feel as though they have to give up their personal style. For years, the “expecting” section was often filled with different colored leggings and ultra-baggy jumpsuits, so it’s understandable if your sartorial creativity feels stunted.
But, as Rihanna has shown and Nisan points out, the trend cycle has once again made its way around, and more pregnant people are dressing in unconventional styles: “A new era of maternity dressing has definitely made its mark,” says Nisan. “Women all over are wearing non-maternity clothes and sizing up in them to fit comfortably, allowing them to stay true to their style and dress up their bump however they please!”
If you’re looking to approach your pregnancy like Rihanna, Nisan suggests picking out a black, body-con midi dress to accentuate your bump rather than dressing around it. Below, find four unconventional maternity styles and the exact pieces needed to pull the looks off.
Unbuttoned and Unbothered
One of the evergreen uniforms for spring is comprised of three things: a breezy button-up, a midi skirt, and rosettes. Craft a playful outfit by buttoning only at the top of your bump and exposing your entire midriff. If you prefer a bit more modesty, consider a large, rose brooch to pin the shirt together.
Argo Snake Print Shirt
This snake print top from Khaite has a relaxed fit that can conceal a bump, or can be easily unbuttoned when you’re ready to bare it all.
Argo Snake Print Shirt
$920.00
harpersbazaar.com
Rose Velour-Silk Brooch
Rose brooches and chokers are the It accessory taking over social media. If you’re not so big on floral prints for the season, this velour-silk brooch proves a less predictable alternative.
Rose Velour-Silk Brooch
$1090.00
farfetch.com
Pochette Métis
A classic, monogram Louis Vuitton bag is a forever favorite, and this Pochette Métis is the perfect size for the warm weather: not too heavy, but still roomy enough to carry around your essentials. Plus, how cute would it look next to a Neverfull-turned-diaper-bag?
Pochette Métis
$2570.00
louisvuitton.com
Wrap Pocket Midi Leather Skirt
This leather, wrap skirt is a neutral dream. Its relaxed silhouette and open slit detail are ideal for those warmer days and the large pockets make it extremely practical.
Wrap Pocket Midi Leather Skirt
$1750.00
harpersbazaar.com
Eva Slouch Boot
These slouchy, kitten heel boots from Neil J. Rodgers are just as sleek as a pair of slingbacks but far more comfortable.
Eva Slouch Boot
$895.00
harpersbazaar.com
Feather Your Nest
If they're going to call it a nesting period, then you might as well add some feathers to your outfit. Building your look around a feathered statement piece is often easier than you think too, since it'll make any pairing of wardrobe essentials feel adventurous.
Zaina Feather Bustier Top - Cobalt
Lamarque’s blue feather bustier top is eye-catching, unique, and playful—making it the perfect crop top to draw attention to yourself and your built-in plus one.
Zaina Feather Bustier Top - Cobalt
$295.00
saksfifthavenue.com
Press-Creased Drawstring Trousers
These trousers are made of a lightweight, cotton-silk blend that you'll want to wear all spring and summer.
Press-Creased Drawstring Trousers
$400.00
harpersbazaar.com
Wiam Platform Slide Sandals
Platforms are arguably the most comfortable heel options out there, and these black slides from Clergerie are easy to slide into when you're on the go.
Wiam Platform Slide Sandals
$495.00
bloomingdales.com
Crystal Embellished Acetate Cat-Eye Sunglasses
What’s an outfit without a little sparkle? Crystal-embellished and cat-eye, these black sunglasses will glam up your look.
Crystal Embellished Acetate Cat-Eye Sunglasses
$750.00
https://www.neimanmarcus.com
Less Is More
The minimalist aesthetic and pregnancy have always paired well together. With so much going on in your personal life, the concept of "less is more" suddenly feels extremely appealing. Just throw together some basics, unbutton, and you've got a Rihanna inspired look that took seconds to put together.
Reza Rib Racerback Tank
You can never have too many black tank tops. Between the endless layering possibilities and the 100% cotton composition, you’ll be so happy you added this Jonathan Simkhai rib-knit to your bag.
Reza Rib Racerback Tank
$245.00
harpersbazaar.com
Straight-Leg Jeans
White, straight-leg jeans are a true spring and summertime staple. If you’re a proponent of the little-top, big-pant look, you’ll love the ‘90s silhouette from Missoni.
Straight-Leg Jeans
$710.00
farfetch.com
Waverly Slide
These black mules will make any look feel effortless and chic. And the soft leather and cushioned insole will easily make these your everyday pair.
Waverly Slide
$175.00
harpersbazaar.com
Egg Bag
Maximalist mindsets appreciate the unique egg-shaped bag that's been trending.The unconventional silhouette adds a bit of whimsy to any look.
Egg Bag
$1800.00
lemaire.fr
Budding Romance
Summer party season is upon us and nothing says glam like a long lace gown. Whether you’re off to an elegant family gathering, an ethereal garden party, or an outdoor gala, this silhouette will always feel timeless.
Floral Lace Maxi Dress
Embody elegance and grace with this floral lace maxi. The detachable belt makes it easier to wear as your bump grows, and the nude base ensures no wardrobe malfunctions.
Floral Lace Maxi Dress
$805.00
mytheresa.com
Leva High Heel Sandals Gold
If you’re not a flats person, you might as well go all out and find the most intricate, highest heel to wear to your event. These gold, lace-up sandals radiate glamour.
Leva High Heel Sandals Gold
$825.00
harpersbazaar.com
Perry Clutch - Prosecco
Possibly the classiest type of bag, the clutch is a party go-to. It’s embellished with crystals, giving an undeniably luxurious look with an optional chain strap that adds practicality.
Perry Clutch - Prosecco
$1195.00
harpersbazaar.com
Clive Diamond Tripe Hoop Earrings
Upgrade your gold hoops threefold with Walters Faith, elevating your outfit in the process. The two extra hoops will make your ear look stacked, no additional piercings needed.
Clive Diamond Tripe Hoop Earrings
$3990.00
harpersbazaar.com
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