Plus size & ladies with tummies - help?!

[Porcupette]

Hi guys, I hope you don’t mind me posting here, I’ve posted in pregnancy too as I wasn’t sure where was best!

In short, I’m a plus size woman who has never figured out how to dress for her shape, particularly at work (I’m a teacher in a very formal school, men wear suits) and now that I’m 6 weeks pregnant I’m so bloated nothing fits. I want to treat myself to some clothes but I don’t know where to start! I’m about a 14 on top but my hips and tummy are much bigger so I usually end up buying an 18/20 jeans. Tops are often depressingly large across the shoulders/bust or too tight across the hips, there never seems to be a middle ground! Where do you shop for clothes that make you feel good? What shapes and styles make you feel gorgeous? Any advice appreciated!

[DelphiniumBlue]

This is where maternity clothes come into their own, you can get a neat fit across the top ( although your boobs will get bigger ) and then there's swathes of material around the tummy area!

[MadamShazam]

I really like tapered trousers, or slim fitting jersey harems. They are comfortable and cam be styled numerous ways. I'm a very casual dresser though! So would wear them with a slightly snug fitting top or a baggy t shirt knotted at the side. Or a vest top and denim shirt.

[MadamShazam]

Have a look at ASOS curve for tops and Simpy Be for trousers.

[LajesticVantrashell]

Empire line jersey maternity dresses. I got a few from Next (via eBay) and I still wear them now!

[LajesticVantrashell]

Like this...

[WouldBeGood]

At least you have an excuse! When I was pregnant i liked those bands that go round over top of jeans/skirts so you can leave them undone. Don’t know if you still get them. Or wrap dresses

[Porcupette]

Thanks everyone, this is great! @WouldBeGood it’s true I have an excuse but as it’s so early I haven’t told many people yet, just my parents, and as I was bigger anyway, I definitely feel a little self conscious!

[Imtoooldforallthis]

I think tunic and blouses are the way to go, along with dresses. Have a look at joules, mantaray. Fat face, weird fish. Some maybe a bit casual for work. Also Wallis do some nice tops.

[Imtoooldforallthis]

www.wallis.co.uk/en/wluk/product/sale-3871683/cream-abstract-polka-dot-shift-dress-9612190

[Imtoooldforallthis]

If fact Wallis have got some lovely dresses in the sale which might be nice for work

[Boshmama]

Also for post pregnancy check out styled by Susie

I'm between a 14 - 18 depending on shop/style etc and they were able to recommend great shops for me and shapes. The colour part wasn't as useful for me but changing the shape of clothes I wear has made a big difference to my confidence

Congratulations on your pregnancy too

[NCbecauseitspersonal]

JojoMamanBebe have some nice quite formal maternity dresses - this one for example

If you plan on breastfeeding, you can buy a nursing dress which will do both pre- and post-natal. (I had a nursing dress from them which I wore well past the nursing stage and still miss...)