5 ways to dress your bump if you hate maternity wear

We spoke to super stylist and mother-of-two Laura Nolan Horgan on an alternative maternity wardrobe.

1. Meet the 'Belly Belt'

Picture: Mothercare

These are available from Mothercare and Bella Baby and is a must have. It comes in a multi-pack of different variations and colours and essentially allows you to wear your own trousers and skirts for much longer than intended. It gives them a little extra space. I used mine right up to the end of my pregnancy and afterwards too.

2. Jersey is your best friend

Picture: Cos

Try and invest in a few nice oversized jersey tops and trousers. Stick to darker colours and pop a denim shirt open over it to give a layered look and a pop of colour. Wide leg jersey trousers are great for hospital too and after having a baby. To support Irish, check out homegrown brand Diffusion, which is available in stores nationwide, including Fran & Jane.

3. Fall in love with knitwear

Picture: Lucy Nagle

I wore loads of knitwear through both my pregnancies - think long cardigans, oversized knits and even more fitted options. You will find that most knitwear in your wardrobe can be worn right through your pregnancy. Top tip: Knit ponchos are great for breastfeeding.

4. Stick to sport luxe

Picture: Asos

Thank goodness for the spot luxe trend. Elasticated waistbands will be you best friend and it's finally trendy to own them in as many styles as you can fit in your closet. Tosphop have great, dressier versions for a night out and printed ones too can inject some fun if you're getting sick of solid colours.

5. Dresses, Dresses, Dresses

Picture: New Look

I bet if you looked in your wardrobe right now, you'd have more options than you realise that would suit a growing bump. Anything with an empire line, jersey or maxi dresses too are often floaty and loose fitting  - remember, you don't have to wear a tent through your pregnancy. It's often nice to show you have a bump and you haven't just put on tons of weight. Personally, I find layering works best. Cos have a great selection of dresses suitable for maternity and post-pregnancy. Don't forget to pair it with a statement necklace.

Laura's main piece of advice? "At the end of the day feel comfortable, there is nothing worse than your clothes being uncomfortable, nevermind the fact that you are pregnant!"

Laura is a stylish and blogger at www.lnhimageinternational.com