Tips for Dressing in Formal Attire While Pregnant

Pregnancy is an important time for any woman. During the nine months of pregnancy, you'll probably be showing for at least four of them (or six, if you've been pregnant before). The odds are good that, during the time you're showing, another important event will crop up, such as an anniversary, birthday, Christmas or formal dinner. The current styles and maternity products available for women mean that you can navigate formal events in both comfort and style - really! Here are a few tips to help you enjoy formal events while pregnant.

Go Flat

Even if you lived in heels with a Sarah-Jessica-Parker zeal before pregnancy, now is not the time or place for sky high shoes. According to Pregnancy.org, many women feel more off-balance and clumsy while pregnant, which makes walking safely in high heels more difficult. One big reason: in the latter stages of pregnancy, your body releases a chemical called relaxin which loosens your joints in preparation for labor. This increases the odds of a foot or ankle injury when wearing heels. With low- or no-heel shoes in fashion, such as ballet flats, it's easy to find something safe and stylish to wear on a night out.

Try A Different Type Of Hose

Instead of picking up the cheapest hose or dress socks you can find, go for another alternative: compression hosiery. If you're in the second trimester or beyond, your body will thank you. Pregnant women are prone to sore feet (due to extra weight) and swollen feet. A pair of compression hosiery can be picked up in the health and beauty area at most retailers. The concept? By gradually increasing pressure on your legs from the feet upward, the compression hosiery helps support you, and keep your legs and feet from swelling.

Cozy and Formal Can Go Together

It's surprising, but true! Formal attire doesn't have to be constricting or otherwise uncomfortable. Many maternity outfits are available now which look great, but are so comfortable that you'll want to wear them all the time! One great example is the Black Collar Wrap Dress ($128.00) by Due Maternity, made of a great rayon/spandex blend to flatter your growing shape at any stage of pregnancy. Or check out the Dusty Plum Essential Wrap Dress ($118.00), also by Due Maternity.

Stay Hydrated

If the night is filled with mixed drinks, wine or champagne, it may be hard to stay hydrated when that seems to be all that's available. Most people are sympathetic to pregnant women, however; if you need a glass of ice water, minus the vodka, simply ask. And be sure to continue drinking them throughout the night. Dehydration in pregnant women is the #1 cause of preterm contractions. So drink (water) up!

Listen To Your Body

When you're pregnant, your body gives you lots of signals when it's time to take a rest. This is a big tip for staying comfortable in formal wear while pregnant. If you're dancing the night away, and you start to feel light-headed, take a break. If you're mingling about the room, and you notice your feet and legs are swelling or uncomfortable, take a break. No one will blame you, and you have the pregnant woman's license to do (almost) anything, however strange.

It's easy to dress up and enjoy a night out while pregnant. By listening to your body and finding body-conscious dress outfits, you can dine, dance and mingle just like your non-pregnant friends.