How to Dress your Baby Bump when You’re Petite

I’m not sure if I’ve mentioned this before, but I never made it to 5”. 

At 4’11”, with fuller hips and muscular legs, it can sometimes be a challenge to find pieces that are flattering and fit well. That challenge only increases when I am pregnant as there really isn’t much in the way of Petite Maternity Fashion. But now well into my second pregnancy, I’ve learned what looks good and what I should avoid. Keep reading for my tips on how to dress your baby bump when you are petite. 

Don’t wear anything too baggy

Unless you have an incredible beaded kaftan (which can be belted, by the way) in your closet, you should never wear anything too baggy during your pregnancy. I don’t care how tall, short, thin or wide you think you are, wearing items that are way too big or baggy never looks good on anyone. You cannot convince me otherwise. 

Balance is Key

If you do feel more comfortable wearing loose pieces, try to balance your outfit by pairing a fitted top with a flowy skirt, or a loose top with fitted maternity pants.

Try Sizing Up

Instead of buying from the maternity section, petite moms-to-be can sometimes get away with sizing up in the petite section, depending on the item. So if you don’t feel like you’re seeing anything you like in the maternity department (which usually isn’t cut with petite women in mind), head to the fitting room with some non-maternity pieces in a size or two larger than you’d usually buy. 

Find a Reliable Tailor

If you do find something that fits well in the regular petite section, but the arms or legs might be a touch long, find yourself a tailor you can rely on to do a little nip/tuck work. 

Don’t Change Your Style Too Much

Sure, if your “best feature” is your tiny waist that you love to wrap in designer belts or show off in crop tops then things might have to change. But instead of relegating those items to the back of your closet, you can just wear them a bit differently than you used to. I paired my pink sequin crop top with a pink maternity tank dress for our gender reveal. Depending on how high or low you are carrying, you can always wear a belt at the top of your bump to nip in a loose top or dress. 

In the end, you need to wear what you feel comfortable in. If you want to show off your bump in crop tops, go for it. But if you feel more at ease in a mumu or leggings and oversized tops, that is up to you. In the end, it’s all about how you feel, Mama!