I really think that finally I’ve found my groove when it comes to dressing a bump. This is probably the one pregnancy where I’ve been a little bit courageous in what I wear while at the same time I always, always put comfort first. Previously I’ve been sat at a desk for the vast majority of my pregnancies so if you’re uncomfortable you only have yourself to worry about. However, what I’ve learned this time round if you’re uncomfortable and trying to control two unruly redheads you start to sweat from places you didn’t know possible.
I did the majority of my shopping online, even in a city like Cork the selection of maternity clothes in all the high street stores is poor to say the least. The shops seem to have a far better selection of clothes online but then of course the issue with size and fit when your body is constantly changing puts people off online shopping a little. However, I’m left with little choice, regardless of whether I get to a shop or not, with the ladies (and/or husband in tow) trying on clothes is just not worth the hassle.
I have so many beautiful outfits for the girls from Next but I’ll be honest it never crossed my mind to look for myself in pregnancy. So when the lovely people behind the brand contacted me to work with them I jumped at the chance. And honestly to say I’m impressed with not just the quality and the price point but most importantly the fit. The two dresses I chose are quite possibly my favourite maternity dresses yet. I have pretty much stuck to dresses this time round, they are cooler and most importantly don’t fall down like the vast majority of jeans towards the end. I’ve also veered towards dresses that, with a little alteration, can be given life after the big arrival has landed.
This printed shirt dress from Next Maternity is quite possibly the one dress that has drawn the most compliments. The fit of it is so lovely on and it’s demure with the long sleeves but at the same time the length is short enough. This is most certainly a dress I will wear once baby arrives too as it’s perfect for gaining access to my chest! It cost €50, I got it in a size 14, I’m normally a 12 and it fit perfectly, especially on the sleeves where I usually have an issue. 
The cut of this black dress, which costs €35, is just perfect, instead of looking like a tent it’s a loose fit dress that fall really nicely. The jagged hem adds a little something different and make the dress long enough but without looking dowdy (I’m still young!). The front of the dress is like a t-shirt material and the back and sides of the dress are a silky material. So it may just look like a boring back dress but it is so much more than that. 
The last outfit is something a little different and something perhaps a little more daring for a pregnant lady! I was instantly drawn to the leather look trousers which come with an over the bump band (that comes up REALLY high and fits comfortably over a rather sizeable 36 week bump to date!). I felt it needed to be toned down a little so I opted for a knit jumper which is just perfect. Also very comfortable and has some lovely detailing on the bottom of the sleeves. For some reason both of these items are not available on the Irish site but on the English site.
*I was sent these clothes by Next for the purposes of a review.
