Seraphine's top maternity work wardrobe tips

So as I've mentioned before I've been out shopping around for maternity clothes and to be honest found the whole process more a chore then a joy. As you normally tend to go through three seasons in your pregnancy how do you know what to buy? No one (unless you're very lucky and have lot's of money) wants to spend a fortune on clothes they'll wear for a couple of months. However, it's a time when your confidence can be down with your changing shape so looking and feeling good is important.

As most of us will spend a lot of days in the office I decided to ask chic maternity outfitters Seraphine what they would recommend for a basic capsule wardrobe:

1) An essential layering top:

Layers in general are absolutely essential during pregnancy as your body temperature seems to change at a moment's notice, so the more you can put on and then take off the better. This one from Seraphine also has secret support, comes in white, black and purple, and costs just £19.

2) Black skinny jeans:

I don't know about anyone else but I live in black skinny jeans although the winter. I have to do a fair amount of entertaining with clients after work so they're perfect for that professional/ daytime & evening style. Plus I also find that skinny jeans look great when you're pregnant as you're legs look even skinnier with that big bump up top ;-). This pair from Seraphine cost £49 and are designed to lift and shape your bum - bonus!!

3) A versatile rollover skirt:

A whole suit can be expensive so a good, smart black skirt can be really handy. Then you can team it with shirts, an old jacket or a pretty top for the evening. This one works particularly well because you can roll it down as you get larger later on in your pregnancy. So this is an investment that should really last at just £36.

4) Leggings

Don't think I need to say anything else on these. They were the first staple I bought and what I wear the most. When your skin is stretching and itchy the softest fabrics are what give you comfort. These luxe leggings were worn by supermodel Claudia Schiffer are currently on sale at £14.40. 

5) Transitional tops that work for pregnancy and breastfeeding:

This one is a really great recommendation from Seraphine because it really helps with saving money too. All the jumpers I've been investing in recently I've made sure I can also use for breastfeeding after muffin arrives. This top was worn by Jennifer Garner is made from natural bamboo fibre and costs £49. 

6) The wrap dress: 

Finally because no work wardrobe would be complete without it is the wrap dress. Why? Because they're great and pulling in your waist, they're really comfy and they can grow with you. This one from Seraphine costs £39 and will work brilliantly for breast feeding too! 

For more information on Sereaphine Ltd, check out their website at: www.seraphine.com 

Weeks 16 – 18 : the muffin is training to be a footballer!

First of all I must apologise I know that I’ve neglected the blog somewhat over recent weeks. I can only blame a manic work schedule and a nasty bout of gastric flu, so I know I have some catching up to do.

I have to admit though that the last couple of weeks have definitely got more excited. I feel so much better in myself and apart from the flu bug I have officially stopped being sick!! Whoop whoop!

I’m still a little tired on some days but if I need a nap I just try and take it and then if I’ve got a busy day or night ahead I try and prepare by getting some rest beforehand.

However the most exciting news I have to report is, little muffin has started kicking!! It’s the weirdest thing. I started feeling little popping bubbles mid last week and they’ve just gradually increased. I kept doubting that they meant anything to start with but now it’s increased and it’s not like anything I’ve ever felt before so I’m assuming that it is the muffin kicking away.

You wait so long to feel them and then suddenly they never seem to stop! As I’ve been sitting here watching the Olympics this morning I’ve literally had about thirty little thumps. I can only describe it now as like a little elastic band pinging against the inside of my belly. It’s funny because you can now start to visualize how big he/she is from their little feet. It just constantly makes me smile.

Alongside the kicking, muffin is also growing like crazy, I can now see my bump getting bigger by the day. This did mean however it was time to take the plunge and go maternity clothes shopping. I arranged to go with my mum last Tuesday to Milton Keynes and I have to say I was really disappointed by what was available. We went into John Lewis, M&S and New Look only to be told their only collections were online. It was so frustrating because whilst I know the choice online is great, I actually wanted to try bits and pieces on to get an idea of my size. I mean they all cater for tall and petite people so why discriminate against pregnant people, GRRRRR!!!

Eventually though we hit gold in Debenhams who have a great Red Herring selection and I managed to get most of the basics. It really makes all the difference waking up in the morning and actually having a selection of clothes to choose from.

I’m also getting excited because we’ve just got over a week to go now until the anomaly scan and finding out what the sex is. I know a lot of people say you should try and keep it a surprise but in all honesty it still will be it’s just a surprise a couple of months earlier. I do admire people though who have the strength to wait, I’m just desperate to get planning.

Finally on the negative side I have been suffering an increasing amount of back pain which has been really annoying but I’m now receiving physiotherapy for it, on the NHS!! I couldn’t believe they offer that kind of care and I’m really hoping it’s going to help. If you’re suffering from this then definitely ask your GP/midwife about extra help. The earlier you go the more strength you can build.