Category: Featured

Timeless Maternity Pieces – By MyChicBump

If you are anything like me, when you found out you were pregnant you had a million questions and knew that life would never be the same. Strange cravings, hormonal roller coasters, and the fear of losing that body you worked so hard for… And then the moment comes… you’re pulling on your favorite pair of skinny jeans, ready to head out with your hubby and something just isn’t working. GASP! That’s when you realize that your regular clothes just wont cut it anymore. So now what do you do?

 

Don’t worry, just because your body is changing and your skinny jeans don’t quite fit like they used to, doesn’t mean you need to replace your whole wardrobe. The key is to invest in the right kind of clothes that will work for you during and even after your pregnancy. When deciding where to spend your money, look for clothes that are classy, that accentuate your body (more posts on that soon!), and that will last for years to come. Maternity clothes don’t have to be baggy and frumpy, in fact, since giving birth in November I’ve worn each of the pieces below on multiple occasions.

 

Here are the top three items that are definitely worthy of investment and that will last you through pregnancy, nursing, and beyond:

 

1. The Tunic

It’s the perfect balance between comfort and style. A tunic is flattering on most bodies, pregnant or not. Pair it with black leggings or opaque tights for an extra slimming look.

 

2. The Tregging

This super functional pant is more than just a pair of leggings. Because of its quality fabric, belt loop, and tailored fit the tregging can be worn as a regular pant or trouser! They are so comfortable you will want to wear them well after you give birth. Definitely a must-have in your maternity wardrobe!

 

3. The Shawl

One of the most, if not, the most versatile pieces I own in my closet! You can wear it over your shoulders to keep warm, as a nursing cover for stylish functionality, or a scarf to perk up any outfit! And its so incredibly soft and delicate you will want to wear it over and over again.

 

Read more about Karen Zaro’s fashion and lifestyle tips on her blog MyChicBump.com

Follow her on Twitter here.

 

 

The baby naming challenge

Lots of eager parents will already know the sex of their baby before the birth these days, but that doesn’t mean choosing a name for the child is any easier.

Fearne Cotton recently gave birth to a boy last week and subsequently announced that she and partner Jessie have called him Rex Rayne. Unfortunately, this prompted comments on the social networking site such as: “Who the **** suggested that name, Scooby Doo?” and “What’s she had, a baby or a Labrador?”

But of course she is not the first celebrity to choose an unusual name for their new child, nor will she be the last. Just see this wonderfully amusing top 30 unusual celebrity baby names compiled by Mumsnet.

Do any of them pick your fancy? The name picking process can be a difficult one. Many friends report drawing up a shortlist and coming up with various ways to cross the contenders off, while others insist they want to wait until after the birth to see what the little girl or boy would suit. However, this can result in long periods where the newborn is ‘Baby Girl’ or ‘Baby Boy’ as indecision often strikes at this point.

The best way to go about it, in our experience, is to come up with a plan with your partner and stick to it. Don’t be swayed by relatives who try to persuade you to name the baby after them unless you really want to.

A nice way to go about choosing is looking for a name with a hidden meaning – for example, Verity means ‘truth’, while Jason means ‘healer’.

Need more help? See Mumsnet’s ‘Baby name dos and don’ts’ for a some baby naming guidelines!

Are you trying to come up with names right now? How are you getting on?

Bye bye heels – by Modern Mummy

This week I have had to come to terms with something. I knew it would happen one day, although I didn’t expect it to be so soon. I’m only 32 29 for god’s sake! But yes. It has happened. Already. It’s official.

I can no longer wear high heels.

*wails*

Before I got pregnant with Daisy, I was one of those women that had to wear them. I mean I really did. I physically couldn’t walk in flats – they made my feet ache and I’d trip up over myself. In heels I could power walk through Mayfair like no-one’s business (which was handy because I was late for my meetings 95% of the time). Four inch killer heels were a standard part of my daily attire.

When I found out I was expecting, I didn’t stop wearing them immediately. In fact I carried on wearing my beloved heels until I was 7 months gone and started suffering from SPD. Even then I would still wear them to my meetings and would wear trainers for the walk to and from the tube and bare feet in the office. I thought flats made my calves look chunky, there was no way on earth I’d give in and start wearing them. Just because I was going to become a mother imminently, that was no reason to start dressing like one!

Fast forward three years and now, as a mother of two under three, I wonder how I ever managed to get the bloody things on, let alone walk in them! On a rare night out over Christmas I donned a relatively demure pair (only 2.5inchers – ones that were well worn in and ‘comfortable’ and had chunky heels too) and an hour into the evening I felt like my feet were BLEEDING. I spent most of the night sat down with my shoes kicked off. Most unlike me. This mama likes to DANCE!

I’ve tried a few different pairs of flats over the past few years but have never found a brand or style I liked. They have always pinched or I’ve had to cling on to them with my toes whilst I walk so they don’t slip off. Or they’ve just been plain ugly! Plus there’s always been the achey arch of my foot that has made me prefer heels to pumps in the past. I’ve spent a fortune trying out different varieties from different shops to no avail.

I bet you can imagine how over the moon I was to discover a pair of flat shoes that are stylish, comfortable AND affordable!

Introducing SHOEtherapy!

Quite possibly the most amazing shoes I have ever worn. And being a self confessed shoe addict, I have worn a fair few pairs.

These ballerina pumps and loafers have been clinically tested (after ten years of medical research, no less!) to correct your body posture, relieve back and joint pains and stimulate tired and aching legs.

Not only are they completely and utterly BEAUtiful, check out the uber innovative design!

I can honestly say that I was SO excited waiting for these to arrive and can confirm that they are the very first pair of flats that have got me all a-fluster. It’s easy to see why though, eh? I opted for the purple leopard print ballerina shoes which are made and lined in top quality leather. I thought these would make perfect all rounders – smart with a work suit or party dress, or casual with leggings or skinny jeans. I needn’t have worried about them working with every outfit though as I fully intend to purchase another couple of pairs, I adore them that much. No one would ever think that these gorgeous shoes are designed to better your health!

I have been wearing mine ever since their arrival. They are super comfortable and super supportive – I even wore them on a 5.5km round trip doing the school run and walking into town.

SHOEtherapy are available from Seraphine here. There are heaps of styles to choose from and range in price from £65 to £85. If you are pregnant (these shoes are actually recommended during pregnancy), or running around after small children on a daily basis, and want some shoes that work hard to support your body but don’t want to compromise on style then these beauties are most definitely for you.

 

Katy is mum to two girls; Daisy, aged three, and Evie, three months.  She loves food, fashion, festivals and photography (even though that doesn’t begin with an F) and blogs at www.modernmummy.co.uk 

Follow Katy on Twitter @ModernMummyUK

 

 

Pregnancy Style – by Modern Mummy

It is said that every pregnancy is different and, from my experience, I most definitely agree.

My first pregnancy was an absolute breeze; I had no symptoms whatsoever apart from my growing belly. I glowed through all three trimesters, enjoyed being made a fuss of and embraced my weight gain – all four stone three pounds of it.

My second pregnancy was a different story altogether. It started with severe morning sickness, which was superseded by heartburn and SPD. I then developed varicose veins and suffered from chronic insomnia. Running around after my two year old left me extra exhausted. To top it all off I was huge. GINORMOUS in fact. Despite only putting on half the weight that I gained first time round, my bump was twice the size. I got asked ‘are you sure there’s only one in there?’ more times than I care to remember. Overall I felt pretty wretched, both emotionally and physically.

My approach to style was also completely different with each pregnancy.

Pre-children I was fashion obsessed and thought maternity clothes were boring and middle aged and swore I’d never wear them. When I fell pregnant for the first time I lived in leggings and smock tops, both of which were on trend at the time, and which were just so EASY. I carried on shopping in my favourite high street shops and when I couldn’t squeeze into my regular clothes anymore I just bought the same ones in bigger sizes. I was uncomfortable, yes, and, let’s be honest here, there is nothing flattering about wearing clothes that are too big for you in some places and tight in others. I wasn’t happy with the way I looked but I WAS GROWING A BABY! – and I just couldn’t see the point in buying clothes that would only last six months. When I eventually saw the light and realised that maternity wear really was the way forward, I was 35 weeks pregnant and it was pretty much too late.

Second time round I decided to put together a full maternity wardrobe even before I got my positive pregnancy test. I didn’t want to look like a frump again and decided I would show off my bump with well fitting, stylish clothes and make myself feel glamorous and womanly.

When I found out I was pregnant, I spent an evening on the laptop browsing online maternity stores and discovered Séraphine. Stylish and affordable maternity wear that I had no idea existed! I then went on the shopping spree to end all shopping sprees and invested in everything, from underwear to every day jeans, t-shirts and knitwear – and even a cocktail dress. I didn’t spend a small fortune either, although I would have done quite happily and could have done quite easily. A couple of hundred pounds was a small price to pay for nine months plus of happiness, confidence and comfort as far as I was concerned.

And I was right. Some days, especially when sleep deprivation had got the better of me, it would have been all too easy to just stay in my pyjamas and feel sorry for myself. But wallowing in self-pity makes you feel ten times worse. Getting up and about, looking after yourself and making sure you’re comfortable really does make a difference. And if you’re looking a million dollars at the same time, that’s even better!

My top picks:

1. Comfy, over the bump straight leg jeans are a maternity essential.

2. Black tie front maternity blazer is smart and stylish – a must for all working mamas-to-be.

3. Nursing jumper is great for the later stages of pregnancy, as well as nursing.

4. Two tone body-con cocktail dress is the ULTIMATE date night dress, so glamorous!

5. Pink/Mocha nursing bra, because nursing underwear can be sexy too!

 Katy is mum to two girls; Daisy, aged three, and Evie, three months.  She loves food, fashion, festivals and photography (even though that doesn’t begin with an F) and blogs at www.modernmummy.co.uk 

Follow Katy on Twitter @ModernMummyUK

Post Pregnancy Pressures, Like We Needed Any More! – By Honest Mum

Floating near the top of the ‘Things to make mums feel bad’ file, slightly behind the ‘How you gave birth to your baby (sunroof C section or standard delivery?)’ and ‘Did you breastfeed or not? comes the ever popular, highly discriminating category: Baby Weight. Yes, in addition to the pressures of how much weight you’ve put on during pregnancy (not referring to health pressures, but cosmetic): ‘big everywhere/ just a bump/ too pregnant/ not up the duff looking enough’, comes all the ‘well meaning’ concern of how soon or will you ever (SHOCK HORROR) lose the baby weight you’ve put on, creating life. Sad but true. Dolly Parton got it right when she sang, “Sometimes it’s hard to be a woman” and to think, she wasn’t even referring to her womb.

I get it, we’re ‘totes’, to (waters) breaking point, saturated with images of skinny, mostly supermodel mums leaving the hospital or ‘post hiding after birth period’, cradling newborns in their size 6 J Brand jeans and 4 inch Louboutins. Brilliant. Have you ever stood next to a supermodel or any model for that matter? I’ve directed fashion films and let me tell you, these women are otherworldly with their never ending limbs and naturally lithe bodies. Cotton wool eating aside (really)-it’s the way they were made. They’re not your average woman, and that’s why we’re not all models (worth noting this small detail next time you flick through Vogue and wonder why you’re struggling for a mirror image) yet we’re expected to compare ourselves, pregnant or not, with these super, hyper-beautiful human beings. Girlfriend, please. Yes, I have mates who are naturally slim and their baby weight (with not everyone gaining a lot in the first place) literally disappeared the moment their babies appeared, like some kind of weight loss Faustian pact and that’s fantastic-I’m not envious at all *cough, but every woman is different and according to a family friend and Consultant Nutritionist, if you had to work hard to stay slim before your baby, you’ll most definitely need to afterwards. That I can vouch for personally…

My first pregnancy was tough, I had constant vomiting until 7 months and later the pregnancy liver condition obstetric cholestasis which led to an induction and crash c section. Not the unicorns and rainbows start to motherhood I’d hoped for, then. I put on what is regarded as a healthy 2 and a half stone during pregnancy, but gained another from immobility post surgery and in my struggle to simply survive the sleepless nights, colic and becoming a mother with little help, as we were far from family. Second time round, now close to my folks and sans sickness and OC, along with a tranquil elective, I found I started to lose weight from the start. I felt happy and strong from the get go and perhaps this made some difference. Let me stress though, weight loss wasn’t my priority and in my case, post section, I was left with an expansive, empty stomach, (as often is the case with standard vaginal births), but propped up by a discreet line of stitches which take time to heal. You cannot exercise until the Dr approves at your 6 week check and this often means gentle exercise to begin with. I was only allowed to run after 3 months. It took me 14 months after the birth of my first son to lose my weight (I even lost more, making it to an athletic, curvy UK size 10) and second time, it doesn’t appear to be taking as long as I’ve felt well and able to exercise and diet from 3 months. I do want to lose the weight and resume my normal figure but the healthy way. I love that saying, ‘nine months on, nine months off’ and have attached a poster stating it, to my treadmill. There will always be pressure from the media and our peers but often the worst comes from ourselves. Well this time, I’ve vowed to not be too tough on myself. We can’t stop supermodels from bouncing back into shape to make us feel better but we can be kinder to ourselves. We can realise weight loss (if we want to lose it in the first place) takes time and energy- two highly elusive things when children arrive. It’s OK. Luckily, we don’t have the Paps waiting in bushes outside our homes desperate to take an unflattering picture of us or a Victoria’s Secret catwalk show to model in a month after our babies arrive (most probably-no not you Heidi if you’re reading this) so let’s just take a moment to appreciate what our bodies have done. Our cervix did good. Now go give it a high five and show it some respect. Who wants to look like Miranda Kerr anyway! Erm, not I!

Vicki is a former Magazine Editor and award winning screenwriter and director.  You can read more of her musings on motherhood at her popular blog: www.honestmum.com

You can follow her on Twitter @Honestmummy

What’s your maternity style? – Jocette Coote

Describe your pregnancy style?

Rock chic mummy!

 

What is your fail-safe outfit?

A black ballerina dress with leggings. Classic and comfortable.

 

How has your beauty & fitness regime changed since you became pregnant?

I walk and swim now, no more running.

 

What is your favourite piece from Seraphine?

The knitted cape that Sienna Miller wore. Beautiful design and I plan to wear it after the baby has been born too!

 

What is the one tip you want to share with other pregnant women?

Enjoy it! And rest when you need it!

 

 

Spring has sprung at Séraphine

We know it’s been a freezing and snowy winter, but that hasn’t stopped us from preparing your spring maternity wardrobe!

This season to showcase our new season designs, the Séraphine team packed their bags and headed to the sunny sea side of Cote d’Azur. The perfect setting for a collection inspired by the colours of the Mediterranean sea and it’s sandy beaches. The Séraphine team was delighted to be hosted by the Grand–Hôtel du Cap–Ferrat for our photoshoot. The five star palace is located in the heart of the Cote d’Azur in St Jean Cap Ferrat and the magnificent building boasts a 17 acre garden and infinity pool overlooking the ocean.

The stunning location was perfect for our palette of corals and cobalt blue hues. Bright tones are stealing the show for our dresses and we also give a pop of colour to our denim collection and signature tops. Séraphine is renowned for our quality knitwear and this season’s classic waterfall shapes are made in luxury linen warns for the perfect summer cover-up. For our range of signature maxi dress and skirts, adored by Hollywood celebrities, we have picked contrasting prints with a bohemian vibe that suits the pregnant shape so well. Our swimwear range gets a twist with our multi-way swimsuits and seventies babydoll styles, inspired by French style icon Brigitte Bardot.

The collection has been designed to see you fashionably through the spring and summer months. Enjoy!

View our spring/summer 2013 brochure online and keep up to date with the latest Séraphine news on our Facebook and Twitter @SeraphineLtd

Second Time Around – by Linda Mngwali

There is something different about my second pregnancy, not only am I sharing this experience with my partner, but also my six year old son. My son seems more excited than I am. Can’t wait for the baby to be born! He wants it to come now! I remember telling him I was pregnant when I was three months but he wouldn’t believe me – “Mummy, where is the baby? You don’t have a fat tummy!” At that point I wasn’t showing much at all. He believes me now.

Before our son was born, it was just my partner and I. I was very happy the moment we found out that we were having a baby boy and decided to call him Prince. A name that suited him to a capital T! We were eager to find out the sex the first time but with my second pregnancy there’s definitely a difference.

With my first I was nervous about the whole pregnancy experience. Being a first timer, I didn’t know a lot about dealing with a newborn and secondly I didn’t have any morning sickness feeling. Now with my second pregnancy I certainly feel a difference – I know what to expect once the baby is born, the feeding, sleepless nights, the crying – what to look for when they cry and so forth.

In my first trimester of this pregnancy I had a bit of heartburn, which was new and uncomfortable. Tried almost everything that my GP recommended but none of the medication worked. Soon found out my only cure was drinking very cold water, and by very cold I mean minus temperatures. Surprise surprise it was the only thing that did the trick! It hasn’t been a walk in the park like the first time. It was so easy. No sickness of a sort! However the heartburn has finally ended thank goodness! Now I can enjoy the next stages of my pregnancy.

Another big difference is my maternity wardrobe. My fashion has also changed a lot compared to my first pregnancy.

I’m more fashion conscious now, maybe because there is a lot more maternity clothes available so I have no excuse! When I was pregnant with my first I wasn’t so stylish. Friends had advised me that there was no need to buy maternity clothes as you only wear them for a short while and all you need is loose fitting pieces. Wrong!

My thinking process has changed with my second pregnancy. I want to make the most of this time and to look fabulous whilst pregnant, because you are only in this for a short period and your body has changed dramatically. This is the period when you have amazing skin, hair glows, nails and your curves changes to suit the growth of the baby. Loving the new me!!!

So to fit with my new body changes I want more vibrant pieces. Maternity clothes that make me stand out! Pregnancy doesn’t mean I should not pay attention to fashion and what I put in!

The first time I didn’t pay too much attention to the outfits I wore. Now there are so many brands and great maternity clothes out there which are passionate about embracing the different changes to women’s bodies (and amazing changes may I say!) I feel more passionate about my pregnancy style.

Working in the maternity fashion industry I can see amazing pieces for pregnant women. I take great pleasure in wearing clothes from Seraphine as I know how much thought goes into the design process. Not only am I selling these to my clients, but I can also recommend the right pieces with confidence as I’m also wearing them myself! – The beauty about the clothing is that they are comfortable, good quality, very durable and very transitional as you can wear them during and after without breaking the bank!

My concerns when I had my first son was why buy all those pieces when I’m only going to wear them only for nine months, so I didn’t spend much on my maternity wardrobe on my first child! With this pregnancy I so want to look great plus feel beautiful during my journey!

Seraphine makes clothes that you can wear for pregnancy and beyond. I’m excited to be sharing this with all my wonderful mothers to be!!!

Enjoy your pregnancy!!!!!!

A Make-up Artist’s Pregnancy Beauty Advice

We were sneaky on our latest photoshoot and managed to pull aside our talented make-up artist, who kindly shared her top 3 pregnancy beauty tips! So here’s a little treat for you today:

1)     Sunscreen – high factor (50) is essential as pregnancy causes pigmentation on the face which is much more likely to fade afterwards if a high factor is used.

2)     Kiehl’s Centella Recovery Skin Salve – great for sensitive or irritated skin as a daily treatment or a heavy layer once a week.

3)     Try using multiuse products to prepare for time saving make-up application! Bobby Brown pot rouge lips and cheeks – a dab on the apples of the cheeks blended with the fingers and a dab on the lips will bring life to the face and a healthy flush

ULTIMATE BEAUTY SECRET

*BUDGET*

Shu Vemura Eyelash Curlers – A few seconds on each eye and the eyes are immediately opened and flattered

*SPLURGE*

Sisley radiant immediate lift – Use this and say goodbye to tired eyes

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