QUESTION: I had my second child in July this year and we are going to a Cotswolds wedding in December this year. I am mainly the same shape as my original profile on my lower half, however, as I am breast feeding my breasts have increased to a 34f. I need an outfit which flatters but also allows ‘easy access’- as it were! This is a treat outfit, so ideally would love to be able to wear it again after the wedding (and my breasts are back to 32d). Happy to look at designer options budget wise.
ANSWER: Many thanks for your e-mail. It’s great to hear from you. First of all congratulations on your second baby. Life is so much busier with two isn’t it? I too have just had my second child and am also breastfeeding so completely understand your fashion dilemma. Trying to balance your practical needs along with the desire to look and feel fabulous is the key to feeling great at your brother’s wedding. Luckily you sound like you have your fabulous pre-baby figure back so as long as you flatter your silhouette you can’t fail to look knockout!
A classic but sexy wrap dress is the way forward for you. For Diane Von Furstenburg, one of your favourite brands, this is their signature look and a true investment piece. It ticks all your boxes being practical for nursing your baby it also emphasizes your well balanced proportions and highlights your waistline. This is perfect for you! With it’s v shaped neckline it has that element of sexiness which is so important for new Mums… I would say as wonderful as having a baby is it can make you feel frumpy and slightly out of the fashion game so a hint of much needed va-va voom will put a spring in your step on your brother’s big day. Here are a few suggestions that would look incredible on you:
1. DVF dress £340: I am going down the blue route slightly as it’s amazing with your blue eyes and is one of THE colours of the season. This DVF wrap dress is in a fabulous silky style that drapes and billows but most importantly ties at the waist. The print makes it a stand out piece and would look gorgeous amped up with the right accessories and worn after with a jewel embellished pendant necklace, a coloured lip and heels for an evening do:
2. DVF print warp dress £336:- Alternatively you could go for the same print in a classic DVF silk jersey that would reveal more of your fabulous silhouette in a body skimming fit:
3. Issa dress £255:- also do some timeless wrap styles in beautiful slinky jerseys. This one in a gorgeous azure blue would look stunning on you and would be a wardrobe favourite for years to come:
4. Jimmy Choo courts £360:- Getting the accessories right will add the perfect polish. December is not the right month for strappy sandals unless your event is completely indoors. A pointed court shoe looks great with black sheer hosiery this season and will give a sleek edge to your look. Go for either a wicked pointed court that will be a timeless go to style for all your dressy wardrobe needs:
5. Moschino Cheap and Chic £494:- or even an elegant shoe boot that looks amazing on your tall willowy frame:
6. Top Hat By Stephen Jones cocktail hat £65:- A small cocktail hat would look fabulous with any of your dresses. Just a wisp of netting pacts a glamourous punch and Stephen Jones has done the perfect winter style for Debenhams in velvet at a great price:
7. Coast clutch £70:- Lastly a jewel like clutch will provide all the sparkle needed for your event. This one from Coast will be a wardrobe go-to piece now and forever. Style after with a tailored jacket and jeans for drinks with friends or full on cocktail glamour at more evening events:
8. Linea dress £59.50:- If you do decide to go down the high street route then House of Fraser’s own brand Linea has an heavenly jersey drape wrap style that could be dressed up or down for future occasions. It comes in one of this season’s hot broody bright tones. The deep burgundy would look beautiful against your skin tone:
We do hope you love our suggestions and please feel free to get in touch if you have any other wardrobe dilemmas. Best of luck with your brood and enjoy your brother’s wedding. A dressy day / night out does a breastfeeding Mum the world of good. I too have some events planned in the run up to Christmas and can’t wait to let my hair down… Enjoy! TARA x