CLUTCH CONTROL

Jem + Bea BABA pouch, £18

 

 

Ooh yeah! Exciting Bag News Alert! Uber cool changing bag brand JEM + BEA have just released their latest offering in the form of these nifty clutches. The black MAMA bag is available in luxurious calf leather embossed with gold letters (lets face it, anything embossed or monogrammed is the fashion dream). But the clever bit is, they’ve kept their signature water resistant, wipe clean lining so no need to panic when little yoghurty fingers do a speed grab inside for your keys.

The navy BABA pouch is made from practical nylon and has a pop of colour with its bright yellow lettering.  Pull that bad-boy out your changing bag at Gymboree and watch the Mumvy unfold (that’s Mum envy if you didn’t know).

MAMA - black - open - £45

Use them as a compact changing kit, a posh snack bag, an evening clutch or a Mum’s Emergency Kit bag (a miniature gin would fit just snug in there right?). Whatever you do, just make sure you get in there quick when they become available as at £45 (Mama) and £16 (Baba), they’re bound to sell out fast.

Launching on the 4th July the bags are available at JEM + BEA

THE LEATHER FORECAST

Brr! Don’t let this lovely bright sunshine fool you, it’s still winter after all and it’s still cold (even with your pregnant almost tropical inner thermostat). So what do you wear, without adding bulk to your bump with loads of layers or chunky knits? Yep, you got it; leather. It’s stylish, it’s timeless and it’s an excellent chill beater! Stop buying babygrows, and treat yourself to a really good biker jacket, I lived in my Whistles Roxy one throughout pregnancy (and beyond), it was the one item in my wardrobe that made my style still feel like my own.

Leather is great for flattering those areas aside from your bump, so if your legs are your best asset, go for a pair of leather (or leather look) trousers, H&M have a great pair that look like leather for just under twenty quid; perfect if you don’t want to invest in the real thing. Alternatively, Seraphine‘s faux leather leggings worn by the likes of Gwen Stefani and Anne Hathaway during their pregnancies.

£19.99, H & M

£19.99 H & M

And if you’re feeling flush, head to Nine in the Mirror for some seriously discounted designer pieces from the likes of By Malene Birger and Iro. (Click on the images for prices)

Oh and we can’t not mention this great sleeveless jacket from Asos, which although isn’t maternity, it would see you through the first trimester and can be worn over a plain roll-neck and without the belt as your bump gets bigger.

£60 ASOS

£60 ASOS

So, whilst you’re saving your pennies by not boozing for nine months, think of it as a new way to get leathered…

BOOT CAMP

 

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Pic credit: Pintrest

Being pregnant or having had a baby can often make buying clothes less enjoyable. The solution? Shoe shopping! Why not give your (probably swollen) feet a treat with a pair of swanky new ankle boots. If you’ve already had your baby, you’ll know by now that much of your time will be taken up walking, walking and walking some more. A Professional Pram Pusher will soon become your new found occupation; as you find yourself walking everywhere in the hope of getting (or keeping) your little one asleep. So whilst you’re racking up those miles pounding the pavements, keeping your footwear on trend as well as comfortable is key.

Pic credit: Pintrest

Many brands do a wide fit option now which will help whilst your ankles do their best to compete with your calves for width. Look for flat styles or a low block heel if you still want a bit of height.

Pic credit: Pintrest

I personally, have an unhealthy amount of black ankle boots (as I do grey t-shirts but we won’t go into that now). With no explanation; there’s studded, buckle detail, patent, faux fur (yes really), suede, chelsea, snakeskin, the list goes on. But, one thing I can say is I do wear them all. I’m not suggesting you go out and buy twenty versions of a black ankle boot like me, but my point being they are very versatile and stand the test of time. Believe me, the trusty ankle boot is going nowhere fast. Wear with skinny jeans during the day or a little dress, leather jacket and black tights if you’ve got the babysitter booked in!

Here’s a round up of the best from the high street to boot (sorry)…

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