Rhiannon Hendricks
Finding out you're pregnant while planning your wedding can be overwhelming, but it doesn't mean you have to give up on your dream wedding dress. The first step is to consider how you want to look on your wedding day: do you want to accentuate or minimise your baby bump? This will guide you towards the right silhouette. If you already bought a dress, talk to your bridal boutique or a seamstress as soon as possible to discuss alterations or swapping it for a new one. Most wedding dresses take 4-6 months to be delivered, so it's important to start looking early to allow time for fittings and adjustments. Depending on how far along you'll be on your wedding day, you may need to order a larger size or buy a maternity dress. Don't forget to consider the fabric and style of the dress, as well as your comfort and ease of movement.
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What You'll Learn
Plan ahead and be flexible
Planning ahead and being flexible are key when it comes to finding your dream wedding dress while pregnant. Here are some tips to keep in mind:
Start looking for your dress as early as possible. Most wedding dresses take at least four to six months to be delivered, and you want to give yourself enough time to find a dress that flatters your changing body and makes you feel beautiful. If you're pressed for time, consider buying off-the-rack or look into rush options, but be prepared to pay extra.
Be open and honest with your bridal consultant. Let them know your desires, concerns, and expectations. They are experienced in helping expectant brides and can guide you toward the right silhouettes and sizes. Consult with them about sizing up or ordering extra fabric to accommodate your growing bump.
Consider your priorities and comfort. Think about whether you want to accentuate or minimise your baby bump. Choose a fabric that is comfortable, breathable, and adaptable to your changing body. If you're breastfeeding, remember to allow for extra room in the bust area.
Be prepared for adjustments. Even if you order a larger size, you may still need alterations closer to your wedding date. Simple styles are often easier to adjust, and adding a corset back can provide flexibility and extra inches. Don't be afraid to consult a seamstress to ensure your dress fits perfectly.
Lastly, keep an open mind. You don't have to limit yourself to maternity dresses. A well-designed non-maternity dress can also accommodate your growing bump with hidden stretch and adaptable fastenings. Remember, your priority is to feel comfortable, confident, and joyous on your special day.
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Choose the right silhouette
The silhouette of your wedding dress is an important consideration when you're pregnant. Firstly, you should ask yourself whether you want to accentuate your baby bump or minimise it. This will guide you towards the right silhouette.
If you want to minimise your bump, a good choice is an empire waist gown, which will highlight the smallest part of your torso. An A-line silhouette is also a good option for a growing bump, as it provides a loose, comfortable fit. A strapless dress with an empire waist and a lace or tulle overlay can also be a smart choice.
If you want to accentuate your bump, form-fitting gowns made from fabric with give will ensure comfort and movement. Mermaid and Sheath silhouettes also effectively accentuate curves.
It's important to remember that your body will be changing in size, so consider a fabric that can grow and adapt with your body. You can also size up from your initial appointment to your final fitting. A good rule of thumb is to add at least one inch for each month of pregnancy remaining to your waistline. If you'll be three to five months pregnant at your wedding, order one size up. If you'll be more than six months pregnant, order two sizes up.
Additionally, consider the boning in your dress, which should only extend as far as the rib cage for comfort. If you opt for a strapless silhouette, ensure it has built-in bust support. A V-neckline can also flatter your bust, and cap sleeves or a light jacket can help if larger arms are a concern.
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Consider comfort and breathability
When choosing a wedding dress while pregnant, comfort and breathability are key. Opt for breathable fabrics to help you keep cool throughout the day. If you're going for a bandeau or strapless style, make sure the bust area has built-in support to accommodate your growing bustline. The boning in your maternity wedding gown should only extend as far as the rib cage for comfort. If larger arms are a concern, opt for cap sleeves or a light jacket or wrap.
If you're hoping to minimise your bump, a strapless dress with an empire waist and a lace or tulle overlay is a good choice. The empire waist will highlight the smallest part of your torso, and the overlay will provide a loose, comfortable fit. If you're hoping to showcase your bump, look for form-fitting gowns made from fabric with give to ensure comfort and versatility of sizing.
Consider sizing up to accommodate your growing bump. You can always take a wedding dress in, but letting it out can be tricky. Add at least one inch for each month of pregnancy remaining to your waistline. If your wedding dress arrives and it's still too tight, don't panic. There are solutions available, including panels and corseting. Your salon should be able to order extra fabric, and a seamstress can create a panel that suits the style of the gown and gives your belly more space.
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Think about your bust line
If you're planning to wear a strapless wedding dress, it's important to consider your bust line. To support your growing bust line, opt for a dress with built-in bust support. You could also consider a V-neckline to flatter your figure. If you're concerned about your arms, choose a dress with cap sleeves or wear a light jacket or wrap.
If you're planning to breastfeed during your wedding, it's important to choose a dress that allows for easy access. Opt for a comfortable dress that supports your bust well. You can also consider choosing a dress with a fuller skirt, as this will be easier to alter if needed.
If you're concerned about the cost of alterations, there are a few things to keep in mind. Firstly, it's a good idea to size up when ordering your dress, as it's easier to take a dress in than to let it out. You can also ask your dressmaker to leave a little extra room around the tummy area to accommodate your growing bump. This will reduce the need for extensive alterations closer to your wedding day.
Additionally, consider the fabric of your dress. Opt for breathable fabrics that will help keep you cool throughout the day. Avoid stiff materials with no stretch, as these will be uncomfortable.
Finally, don't be afraid to ask for help. Your bridal consultant or seamstress will be able to advise you on the best options for your specific needs. They can also help you with taking measurements and ordering extra fabric if needed.
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Don't be afraid to accessorise
When it comes to wedding dresses, accessories can elevate your look and make a statement. So, don't be afraid to accessorise!
If you want to draw attention to your baby bump, consider a form-fitting gown or a mermaid or sheath silhouette. To complement this look, opt for subtle accessories that won't take away from your dress and bump. A simple necklace or earrings can add a touch of elegance without overwhelming your ensemble.
On the other hand, if you prefer a more discreet approach to your bump, an empire waist gown or an A-line silhouette can provide a comfortable and loose fit. In this case, you can be more adventurous with your accessories. Statement necklaces or bold earrings can add a touch of glamour and draw attention to your face.
To personalise your look, consider adding a family heirloom or borrowing accessories from your mother or grandmother. Not only will this add a unique touch to your outfit, but it can also provide a sentimental value that will make your wedding day even more special.
Additionally, don't forget about your veil, shoes, and bouquet. These accessories can also be used to enhance your overall look. A long veil can add drama and elegance, while a shorter veil can give a more modern and playful vibe. Shoes can also be a fun way to express your personality, whether you prefer classic heels or comfortable flats. And don't underestimate the power of a beautiful bouquet to tie your entire look together.
Remember, the key is to feel comfortable and confident. So, choose accessories that reflect your personal style and make you feel like the best version of yourself on your special day.
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Frequently asked questions
First, congratulations! Second, don't panic. You have a few options. You can talk to your bridal boutique to see if the dress can be altered to fit a bump or if it can be swapped for a new size. You can also consult a seamstress to see if they can let out the seams or add a corset back.
You should start looking for a wedding dress as early as possible to allow time for fittings and adjustments. Your body will change throughout your pregnancy, so the size you purchase likely won't be the same as when your wedding dress is delivered or on the big day.
This depends on whether you want to accentuate or minimise your baby bump. If you want to minimise it, a strapless dress with an empire waist and a lace or tulle overlay is a good choice. If you want to accentuate it, look for form-fitting gowns made from fabric with give to ensure comfort. Flowing silhouettes like empire waist dresses and wrap dresses are comfortable and flattering, while some prefer structured silhouettes that fit snugly to accentuate their bump.
This depends on how far along you'll be on your wedding day. If you'll be 3-4 months pregnant, order one size up from your normal size. If you'll be 5-6 months pregnant, order two sizes up. If you'll be 7+ months pregnant, order at least two sizes up or consider ordering extra fabric.
Remember that your bump is an oversized accessory, so don't try to compete with it. The simpler the style, the easier it will be to make adjustments. Keep in mind that most wedding dresses take at least four to six months to be delivered, so you may need to size up to accommodate your growing bump.
