Select your representative: All Saints’ Melanie Blatt performing live while five months pregnant, dressed in low-slung trousers and a fitted top (1998). Kate Hudson graced the red carpet in a crop top paired with an ankle-length skirt during her pregnancy (2003). Britney Spears attended the premiere of Charlie And The Chocolate Factory in a blue T-shirt emblazoned with ‘I Have The Golden Ticket’ and an arrow directed at her pregnant belly (2005).

In fact, there is no need to select a representative. For decades, women have demonstrated that it is entirely acceptable to be fashionable, alluring, and even playful during pregnancy. No expectant mother should feel compelled to conceal herself in an empire-waist dress or oversized garment to appear presentable. Unfortunately, the broader public has yet to embrace this notion, and a shift in perspective is long overdue.

In 2022, Rihanna revolutionized maternity fashion by donning body jewellery, distressed low-rise jeans, cutout bodysuits, oversized outerwear, lacy crop tops, mini dresses, and mesh fabrics throughout her first pregnancy. This bold style prompted numerous online publications to create listicles with titles like A Guide To Pregnancy Dressing In A Post-Rihanna World.

In 2023, our icon was pregnant once more, showcasing vibrant hot-pink Chanel puffer coats, floor-length jeans, and embellished gold chains. In 2024, Margot Robbie, during her own pregnancy, opted for sheer tops and swimwear while at Lake Como. Online commentators remarked that she appeared "too chubby," with some even attributing this perception to her husband, Tom Ackerley, suggesting he had diminished her sense of "attractiveness."

Individuals who express discontent regarding an expectant mother's attractive appearance often overlook the fact that the woman, even before her pregnancy, was not dressing for their approval. Furthermore, exposing a pregnant belly is no different from revealing a non-pregnant one. An expectant mother is under no obligation to conform to ideals of modesty, decorum, or a complete lack of sensuality.

Indian celebrities are increasingly embracing both aspects of their identities. During her pregnancy with her son Taimur in 2016, Kareena Kapoor Khan showcased her fashion sense through stylish co-ord sets and kaftans. At that time, India was just beginning to explore the realm of social media, and fans were captivated by her fashion choices. However, few maternity retailers incorporated more fashionable options into their offerings, suggesting that Indian mothers are expected to maintain a domestic appearance throughout their nine-month journey.

In 2019, UK tabloids faced criticism for their treatment of Meghan Markle, accusing her of "flaunting" her baby bump, essentially for not concealing the natural reality of pregnancy. Similarly, in 2022, Alia Bhatt experienced public disapproval regarding her fashion choices during her pregnancy, as if her attire was meant to cater to public opinion.

Consider Kim Kardashian's second pregnancy in 2015, during which she popularized neutral bodycon silhouettes, a trend that continues to influence maternity fashion today. It is essential to acknowledge the contributions of celebrities who take fashion risks, as they inspire everyday women to embrace their own style choices. A 2021 study published in the Journal of Fashion Marketing and Management explored Gen Z's perspective on maternity wear, revealing that younger individuals, even those not planning to have children, desire maternity clothing that is both stylish and comfortable. They do not perceive the nine months of pregnancy as a departure from their usual fashion sensibilities.

This perspective is valid, and it is crucial to move away from confining women to outdated stereotypes. The experience of carrying a child is already challenging; there is no need to further restrict women's expression through fashion.

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