This one is for all you yummie mommies-to-be, and not only Kareena Kapoor. Maternity wear should be comforting, soft and make you feel good.

This is a lovely phase in a woman’s life, but growing a little human inside is a tremendous feat. The mother’s body is going through a metamorphosis and so are her heart and mind. Make yourself priority No. 1.

The clothes:

You may find some in your own closet, but you can buy some. A search online is highly recommended.

The checklist:

1. Soft, softer, softest fabrics: Jersey, knit, mulmul, cotton, silks, satins.

2. Flowy is the best, a princess cut looks flattering on most women and is the easiest to pull off.

3. A-line works well, too, as a free-flowing silhouette. Can be worn with a delicate belt or scarf or hair accessories.

4. If you are comfortable showing the bump, do wear the stretch bodycon dresses. Pair these with slip-on trainers and a short jacket.

5. Supportive innerwear. This one will define how the body will feel as it is changing, and how quickly you can get back to your original shape. There are lots of options. Seamless, over bump, under bump, broad straps. Ask for assistance at the stores and have your purchase personalised. This is vital.

6. Pants: Go with satin pants. Satin is lush, comfortable and chic; lightweight and works with every weather.

If you are out in the sun a lot, cotton is best. Ankle length, paired with a t-shirt and delicate strappy sandals. Ankle length leggings paired with a boyfriend shirt and trainers look delicious too. Or pair ankle length cargo pants with a sweatshirt and a baseball cap. Cute and so with-it.

7. Shoes: Anything that makes you feel comfy. Support for body, lower back to be kept in mind.

8. Accessories: Get the baubles, scarves, belts, earrings, clips, hairbands out. Turn vanilla into ooh-la-la.

9. Colour: Pastel when you want to relax. Brights when you want to feel vibrant.

10. Lotions and potions: Indulge, indulge and indulge, to deal with stretch marks and itchiness.

SHABANA MUNSHI, obstetrician and gynaecologist at Belle Vue Clinic, Calcutta, shares her tips:

• Pregnancy brings many physiological changes for which the hormones estrogen and progesterone are responsible.
• Common psychological changes during pregnancy include mood swings, depression, anxiety, apprehension about the future, especially in these difficult COVID times. Regular breathing exercises, meditation, antenatal exercises will help, also with lower back pain, unless contraindicated by the obstetrician.
• Weight gain with fluid retention, and swelling of face and limbs are common. BMR increases significantly, resulting in increased body temperature. To avoid overheating, wear light and airy clothes.
• Breasts become larger, and women may notice veins becoming prominent, nipples protruding and tenderness. Stretch marks on breasts and early leaking may occur. Stretch marks are also prominent on the lower abdomen. These may be permanent.
• Ankle area to be kept free for easy movement. Clothes above the ankle are perfect.

Check with your doctor what works for you. Stay glowing, stay healthy, stay stylish.

The columnist speaks her mind on everything about fashion. Contact: sanikakakirde@gmail.com