How to dress the bump for the office

One of the trickiest things when you're pregnant is trying to keep your bump a secret around the office for 12- 14 weeks. You feel as if you look so pregnant already, and if you’re like me you will have put some weight on quite early too, so it’s all about dressing to conceal those extra pounds before the news is officially out. Every woman is different and how long we last in “normal” clothes can vary hugely. So here are some tips and tricks to get you through those early weeks:

Wrap-style tops – they're a dream. The ruching around the tummy can conceal a multitude.
Chiffon blouses; these were my saviour. No need to opt for anything massively oversized, just looser, chiffon fabric that doesn’t cling to your body.
Pencil skirts with elasticated waist bands (worn with longer-length blouses)
Wrap dresses: just like wrap tops, they have an incredibly flattering shape.
Layering: This is key – longer-length cardigans layered over simple tops, finished with a light scarf can work a dream to conceal a small bump.

As your bump expands and the news is officially out you may want to invest in some key work wear pieces to see you through the rest of your pregnancy. These are the clothes we generally spend the least on but the ones we spend the most amount of time in! My advice is to invest what you can here, quality will last you longer and fit your new figure better. KEY BUYS 1. MATERNITY SKIRT Skirt, €95 at Isabella Oliver, (for the navy, but the black version is on sale for €45) This pencil skirt will see you right through your entire pregnancy, it's such a versatile piece and something you can mix and match to create several different work wear looks. 2. SMART TROUSERS The key is to make smart purchases, a few key pieces that can be mixed and matched with each other and you're sorted. A comfy pair of black cigarette-style trousers are the perfect wardrobe investment. If this style doesn't suit you, opt for the trouser shape you usually wear from a maternity collection. Like a pencil skirt, they can be mixed and matched across your entire wardrobe, wear with a simple chiffon top and statement necklace, or pop on a blazer and vest for a different look.

Trousers, €41 at ASOS. 3. A VERSATILE DRESS When it comes to dresses, opt for one that can be worn in summer without tights and finished with a cardi and in winter with tights and a blazer. Black is always going to be versatile and flattering too, and it's a good staple to have in your wardrobe, but sometimes it’s nice to veer away from it, especially in the summer months. Here are three of my favourites:

Check dress, €31.45 at Mamalicious.

Purple dress, €20.95 at Mamalicious.

Jersey dress, €34.50 at ASOS. 3. A CLASSIC WHITE SHIRT It's always worth investing in a good quality white shirt. This style is ideal, it's a longer length so can be worn with black ankle-length trousers, black leggings, jeans (for casual Fridays) or worn over your pencil skirt. The shape, length and style is really flattering.

Shirt, €117 at Isabella Oliver. 4. A GOOD SELECTION OF BASICS When I'm on personal shopping trips with clients, I always emphasise the importance of having a good selection of ‘basics’. Pregnant or not, these are the backbone of your wardrobe.

Top, €42.50 at Debenhams. When it comes to maternity basics, length is key, as are stretchy Lycra fabrics. Lots of brands do multi-packs, but these basics don’t need to be maternity, high-street shops like Zara, Penneys and Dunnes stores have a great selection that can work.

Vests, €19.36 at ASOS. Naomi Clarke is The Style Fairy – our Guest Blogger this week. She's a fashion stylist and personal shopper with a history in PR and event management. She is expecting her first baby soon. Catch up with her on her website, Facebook, Instagram or Twitter.