Usually when we’re talking about maternity clothes on this blog, we’re talking about ways to dress around the bump, but sometimes it’s necessary to hide it. The most common reason for hiding a pregnancy is if you are an actress playing a role that does not involve a pregnancy. You might also hide a pregnancy if you feel your job is at stake, such as during an interview. Even though it is unethical, women do sometimes get turned down for positions because they are pregnant. I’m sure there are other reasons a woman might want to hide a pregnancy, at least in the early stages, but that’s a whole blog topic by itself.
What Not To Do:
Most maternity clothes these days feature an empire waist, which really accentuates the baby belly. Avoiding these types of blouses would be your first step in trying to hide your bump. Another popular style is the fitted shirt with side ruching – or gathering – which pulls in the bottom of the shirt tightly under the baby bump. You definitely want to avoid these types of shirts if you don’t want people to get suspicious. In fact, you might just want to avoid maternity clothes altogether by buying misses sizes in a larger size as needed.
At the same time, you don’t want to go to the other extreme by wearing really baggy clothes. Anyone who has ever seen a tabloid claiming a celebrity is pregnant will also note that the incriminating picture shows the woman wearing a loose shirt or dress. “What is she hiding?” they always ask.
What to Wear Instead:
The key to hiding a bump lies in fitted, but not tailored tops and using layers to disguise your new-found curves. As long as your bump is smaller than your bust, you can wear shirts that will drape over your belly without hugging it or looking like a tent. Shirts and tops should also feature details that draw attention to the neckline or bust, such as embroidery or beading. Keep the waist low, well below the tummy area (think tunic). Wear flashy earrings to keep people’s eyes at your face level. You could also wear a colorful scarf to draw attention to your neckline and face. Another great way to hide a bump is to wear a jacket. I wore a black blazer when I was five months pregnant for a Christmas play, and a stranger I met that day was shocked to see my bump when I took the jacket off. It works!