THE larger the bump gets, the more creative I’m having to become with my wardrobe.

So I thought I’d start sharing a weekly style post for ‘dressing the bump’ or should that be ‘dressing the HUGE bump’ now I’m in my third trimester.

This time around, with pregnancy number two, I’m having to try and keep as snug as a bug in this increasingly cold weather whilst also trying to looking ‘pulled together’ and reasonably stylish. No mean feat let me tell you!

With Elsie being a summer baby, I spent my last few months during pregnancy number 1, mooching around all boho like in flip flops and summer maxi dresses but not this time! This time it’s all about layering up, wearing sensible (ish) shoes and trying to battle the elements.

But one thing both pregnancies definitely do have in common is the need to feel comfortable in whatever I’m wearing / did wear.

The larger my bump gets, the more comfort is essential which is why one of my favourite go to pieces right now is this black and white tunic dress from Precis which is also… non- maternity!

Proof that you really don’t always have to wear maternity clothes throughout pregnancy. Normal clothes can work fantastically well too.

It’s super soft, very comfy and super stretchy! Just the thing for me and the bump.

I like to wear it casually (it’s a great throw on piece) but is also perfect for when I’m in professional work mode, away from my desk and meeting people.

Here I’ve teamed it with a long grey woollen coat from Zara that I’ve owned, loved and worn for nearly 10 years (!), maternity black tights (an essential), a black and silver waist belt which I’ve worn higher up on the bump under my bust to add some shape, Air & Grace Coachella boots (just out of shot) which are great for the feet and this stunning (and very chunky!) vibrant statement agate necklace from DIWAH.

My beloved coat  – which no longer meets in the middle due to the baby bump – is however still thankfully warm enough for me to wear open on milder autumn days, especially when teamed with a chunky big scarf like this one. I really liked the clash of monochrome patterns, with this against the dress.

And yep, I’m also wearing a hat! I’m trying to be braver with what I wear recently so although wearing one still feels out of my comfort zone, it does a super job at helping to keep me warm and dry and hides many a bad hair day too.

Heavily pregnant like me and don’t know what the hell to wear?

Well my advice is layer up, play around with what you already have, don’t be afraid of buying and wearing non maternity items if they fit well and are comfy and try to embrace more sensible footwear when needed.

Even I’m having to forego my beloved heels at the moment because let’s face it, it’s pretty slippy underfoot on those autumn leaves…

Disclaimer – The dress and necklace were kindly gifted.