Having a baby is a wonderful time of any woman’s life. But for many pregnant women, finding fashionable maternity clothes to wear to work in the second and third trimester of pregnancy can be somewhat of a struggle.

With so many more great high-street brands selling maternity wear and the internet a flourish with great deals from even more brands, finding maternity clothes should no longer be a struggle. You just need to know what to wear to make sure you look as fabulous as you do when you are not pregnant!

Here are some tips to make sure you look fantastic during your pregnancy:

• Don’t shy away from bold colours when you are pregnant. Even when you wear black accessorise with bold colours to freshen up your look.

• Maxi dresses are super for any mum to be and will continue to work for you after the baby is born.

• If you feel self-conscious about gaining weight, wear a longer length jacket will accommodate your bump. Try a single-breasted jacket with a low cut neckline to give the illusion of a longer, slimmer body.

• 

  An empire line dress will work brilliantly both in tops and dresses. It will be tight under the bust then drapes over your stomach.

An empire line is created by a woman wearing a high-waisted dress, gathered near or just under the bust with a long, loose skirt, which skims the body. The outline is especially flattering to pear shapes wishing to disguise the stomach area or emphasise the bust. The shape of the dress also helps to lengthen the body’s appearance.

• Do buy a couple of pieces with an elasticated waist – these will not only bring you comfort, but will look super teamed with an empire line tunic top.

By Lisa Talbot, award-winning personal and corporate style consultant, www.lisatalbot.co.uk