Smooth as silk

Still on a last-minute hunt for that perfect top to see you through the party season? Step (or click) on over to Mamas & Papas where their maternity range currently has some great discounts.

At half the regular price, this luxurious Silk Tie Tunic will skim and drape your figure to flattering form. It has an adjustable tie under the bust and can be jazzed up with jewellery and accessories for a different look each time. We particularly like the tunic paired with these stylish blue tights as pictured.

Visit Mamas & Papas for more festive offers.

V&A muse

This week on Hype Baby, we've been extolling the virtues of museum shops as a great place to find unusual gifts. One of my favourite online stores is the V&A museum web shop, a virtual treasure trove of design goodies.


This Deco Bloom Silk Top, inspired by a book plate design for textiles, utters 'hip mama' with its simple wrap/tie style, luxurious colours and gorgeous embroidery. It's the kind of blouse that can adjust to fit your bump, then gracefully skim your frame when baby's out and about.


Or if you're feeling too heavy to invest in new clothing, check out their fashion accessories such as this vintage-look Feather Flower Headband by Ophelie. Handmade using dyed feathers, it's sure to get heads swerving in your direction come party season. Visit the V&A shop for more stylish ideas.

Babble on to CURE cancer

We've gabbled about Babble babywear, the line of funky tot suits featuring cute quips and graphics on our sister blog Hype Baby.

Now we want to let you know about a new plan from the generous Babble babywear team. In an effort to help fund research to find a cure for cancer, Babble babywear are donating $1 from the sale of every onesie to CURE Childhood Cancer.

Simply enter coupon code BABBLECCC at checkout and you'll know that even after your bubba grows out of his babygro, your money was put to good use. Check out the collection at Babble babywear.

Bump and groove

With the Bank Holiday coming up over here, Londoners are either heading away from the Notting Hill Carnival or getting ready to be elbow-deep in the craziness.

If you're insane enough to be pregnant and partying at Europe's biggest street fest, you'll need to be wearing comfy shoes and relaxed clothing. Check out The Maternity Barn for a range of cool, customisable t-shirts that make a statement.

Just pick a style and colour, scroll down the list of slogans like 'Pregnant Not Fat', 'Oops I Did it Again' or 'Funky Mama 09' or even add your own. The most useful message to help you navigate through the crowds is probably 'Hands Off the Bump'.

The Maternity Barn also offers clothing for kids and dads so visit the web site to scope out more styles.

Bags of style

After the untimely demise of my last baby bag, I had to find a way to comfort myself. Recovery has come quickly in the shape of a red hot number by uber-trendy Stork Sak. In fact you could say I've become unreasonably pleased with myself since I started rocking this bag around town.

The only thing that dents my swagger is taking a trip to the Stork Sak web site where I could spend days lusting after their gorgeous range of totes, rucksacks and unisex bags. My new baby is the red version of the Dori Red Label Messenger featuring multiple wipe-clean pockets, thermo-insulated bottle pockets, adjustable shoulder strap and a fold-out padded changing mat. Even cooler is that it doubles as a laptop bag so should provide years of use. I picked one up at Bebe Bisou boutique in west London's Westfield shopping centre but you can snap one up online at Lullabys kids' store. Visit Stork Sak for more styles and stockists.

Bump and swirl

We've featured clothing line Nordic Kids several times on our sister blog Hype Baby as their range of cheeky, cheerful labels are the last word in Scandinavian cool. Mamas-to-be should not hesitate to check out the Maternity section for some funky-fly outfits to make you feel bumpalicious.

I adore this Red Peace Print waistband skirt by Plastisock. The combination of lime green strip and groovy red patterns shouldn't work but somehow it does. Even if you've lost your will to party while preggers, this skirt is guaranteed to make you twirl. Visit Nordic Kids and put a little pep in your step.

What Dad really wants

It's not the first time I've bemoaned the lack of decent maternity lingerie on the high street. Even finding a good fitting nursing bra can be a struggle if you wear a popular size. So I'm happy to send any readers in search of solid yet sexy undergarments along to Ma Mere, a site dedicated to designer lingerie from Australia and around the world.

With Papa's day approaching, the canny mompreneur behind the megastore is offering a special promotion to help keep the home fires burning: buy any 2 sets of Hot Milk undies and receive a free pair of Milkman boxers for your partner. Now that's what we call the gifts that keep on giving. Check out Ma Mere web site for more info.

No whine dining

Breastfeeding is one of motherhood's simplest pleasures. It can also be truly stressful when you're nursing in public and your little one hasn't yet perfected the art of dining al fresco. Cue failed latches, wardrobe malfunctions and misery all round.

Despite having nursed Mr. Cheeks until well into his second year, I've had more than a few unlucky attempts at trying to feed his baby brother while out and about. So I was thrilled to receive a product called the Breastfeeding Butterfly.

Designed by two UK mamas, this is a nursing cover with a twist: instead of a big stiff apron that screams 'look at me, I'm breastfeeding', you get a chic swathe of fabric that you simply tie across your body like a sash. Secure two knots at shoulder and hip, slide your very hungry caterpillar under the 'Butterfly' and it's bombs (or boobs) away.

In theory, that is. I must confess my first outing with the Breastfeeding Butterfly wasn't quite as smooth as the instructional diagram (cloth tied wrong, baby too unsettled).

So I practised at home until we both got comfortable and now the Breastfeeding Butterfly has become one of my baby bag staples. Aside from its portability (each Butterfly comes in its own dinky carry pouch), what I love about this product is that it's light and airy so you don't feel like your little one is suffocating or overheating. Mine comes in discreet black with pretty embroidery but you can snap up Butterflies in a range of gorgeous prints. Visit Faye and Lou's web site for more info.

Pudding in a pouch

One of my baby essentials since having Little Big Cheeks is my Rhubarb & Custard pouch sling. Even though my chunky Bhudda is too heavy for toting around town all day, my sling certainly makes things easier on my arms and back. Plus I always get compliments on its pretty pistachio print.

Cape Town company Rhubarb & Custard is run by a mother of three who's passionate about babywearing. I met Emilia at the Baby Show in October while trying out different carriers over my bump, and what really sold me on her product was not just how easy it was to wear but her enthusiasm and warmth. Each sling not only comes in a wide range of funky fabrics, but also features her contact details for direct feedback or support.

Rhubarb & Custard pouch slings are machine washable, made with 100% cotton lining and are suitable from birth to 18 kgs. Visit the web site for details on these and other products.

Snappy nappy changer

Even though I've already got a deluxe changing bag for my Little Big Cheeks along with a chic and cheerful changing wallet from Mothercare, I was more than happy to receive yet another package on which to park baby's bottom when he needs refreshing.

Gund Baby's Diaper Tote is a fab little bag that folds out to one of the largest and most comfy changing mats I've seen. It features four inner compartments and a back pocket providing plenty of space to carry nappies, wipes, cream and anything else to keep that teenie tushy happy.

The tote is available in pink or blue and has a super-cute elephant, frog and giraffe theme. I'm already imagining carrying it around for summer picnics, fairs or festivals when it's too hot and bothersome to manage a larger hold-all. Our Gund Baby Diaper Tote was snapped up at Wilton and Noble gift store but you can find it at various online retailers including Amazon.

Black by popular demand

Even in these credit crunchy times, any woman who has dedicated her body to creating life deserves to treat herself to a little luxury. Designer It bags may no longer be de rigeur, but that doesn't mean you have to sacrifice your 'yummy mummy' arm candy for a dumpy looking baby changing bag.

We're currently lusting after this sleek OiOi Carry All in black patent with leopard print lining. Not only does it scream chic mama but it comes with all the trimmings: padded changing mat, insulated bottle holder, wipes case, messy bag and adjustable strap for wearing over your shoulder or hanging from your pushchair. Get it for a steal at Kiddicare or visit the OiOi web site for more styles.

Xmas cracker

Still after that perfect party dress? If you've had no joy in high street stores, look no further than this hot lacy number from online store Babes with Babies. Available in ultra-trendy dark chocolate or black lace over an oyster lining, it features a flattering empire line waist and cross-over neckline so you can work that new mama cleavage. This style of neckline is also useful for breastfeeding as you can simply slide the fabric across and let baby at 'em (maybe drape a scarf across if you're feeling modest). Designed by Tiffany Rose, this dress will keep you blooming throughout pregnancy, the festive season and beyond those bumpy days ahead. Order online at the Babes with Babies web site.

So charming

In our search for the perfect Xmas treasure for all the new and expectant mamas we know (it truly is baby season), we were tickled pink and blue to find out about the Moms Name Charm Necklace from Bliss Living. Each custom-made necklace includes a sterling silver charm that can be inscribed with your baby's name and date of birth, connected to the chain by a Swarovski crystal birthstone.

In case you don't know your child's birth stone, there's a handy chart on the web site to explain and you can add additional charms to each chain to reflect your growing family. If you want to spread some Moms Charm before Christmas order by December 5 and use the coupon code FREESHIP for free shipping on all orders over $99 (by Nov 20).

MeloBaby mats make mellow mamas

One of the most useful purchases I've made since becoming a mother is this Fold & Go Mat from The First Years, a fold-up changing wallet that fits into any medium-sized bag and has space for nappies and wipes case. At last month's Baby Show in London, I was thrilled to come across the MeloBaby nappy/changing wallet which combines the practicality of my current changing mat with the sleek good looks of a clutch bag.


Available in two colours, MeloNoir and MeloChoc, the MeloBaby features up to 4 pockets for wipes, nappies and creams and then folds out to a full-size changing mat in soft fleece to soothe your baby's tush. Even if you're intent on splashing out on that designer changing bag that costs and carries the earth, a portable mini-mat like the MeloBaby is definitely a worthwhile investment. Snap one up at the MeloBaby web site.

It's a wrap

Like most multi-tasking mamas, finding a fashionable product with multiple uses gives us an almighty buzz. So we were positively electrified to come across the M Coat, a Canadian Spirit designed coat that converts from maternity coat to new mummy cover-up and finally to a stylish jacket for when you're back to regular size.


Insulated with 100 percent Canadian down and featuring a detachable faux fur trim hood, what makes this coat so clever is the removable front panel that can be zipped into multiple positions for pregnancy or for toting your bubba in a front-carrier. The panel has an adjustable drawstring waist to allow your blooming belly to expand or to help pull your baby closer when used for babywearing. And when you're done with the infant stage, you can whip the panel off to reveal the sleeker version of yourself stylishly wrapped in what looks like a brand new winter coat! Find out more at the M Coat web site.

The 6Way LBD

It's a strange phenomenon how your wardrobe seems to shrink as your body expands. If you're struggling to find comfy, stylish clothes to fit your pregnant form, Glow Maternity (by way of the Fertile Mind range of maternity and nursing wear) are offering an inventive solution: the 6 Way maternity dress. That's right, one dress, six different outfits.

This wash and wear garment easily transforms from a simple skirt to a baby doll dress that's ideal for hanging out at the beach, an ultra-hip one-shoulder number perfect for date night (hopefully with your baby daddy!), a halterneck evening gown, a sexy crossover style and a dress with cap sleeves for a little more coverage. Available in sizes S to XL the dress is designed to elegantly skim your form rather than clinging to lumps and bumps. And in the grip of credit crunch panic, it's a snip at only 80 quid. Could this be the ultimate LBD? You do the maths. Find the 6 Way maternity dress at Glow Maternity.

Glamour, Amoralia style

Given the current UK climate, it may sound ironic talking about your summer wardrobe. But it’s never a bad time to celebrate lingerie that’s designed for pregnant women who are hot in every sense. Leading brand Amoralia is already a favourite of celebs like Rachel Weisz and model Laura Bailey.

Now Amoralia has launched two summer collections: Embrace features a strapless maternity bra in breathable microfibre and matching briefs or hipster thongs cut to hug you right below the bump. You can also try their nursing bra which has a patented magnetic clip to allow discrete feeding. The Canelle collection includes a multi-way bra with detachable straps that can be worn under cross-over, halter-neck or strapless tops and dresses.

Elsewhere in the Amoralia range we’re particularly keen on the ultra-sexy Nougatine set with its award-winning nursing bra and French cut knickers with bows. Slip into Amoralia and you’ll have no excuse not to step out looking and feeling mamalicious, whatever the weather has in store.

Hot Milk does a body good

There’s something about the phrase maternity bra that calls up images of chunky straps and boulder cups of the ilk that might be sported by head matron in Carry on Nurse. Two words: Not Sexy.

But a bold New Zealand company, Hot Milk, is raising temperatures worldwide with its provocative and mama-affirming line of maternity lingerie that you would actually want your partner to see (and touch and tease…).

With names like Whisper Sweet Wickedness and Baby Doll Delicious, this exquisite range of maternity and nursing bras, panties, camisoles and nightwear screams in-your-face decadence and has courted more than its fair share of controversy (some outraged mothers who received Hot Milk catalogues cried ‘soft porn’).

If you’re the type of puritan who’s offended by the sight of bumpalicious babes celebrating their earth mama sensuality, then look away. But if you’re ready to throw out that greying, saggy upholstery for under garments that will help you reclaim your inner sex goddess (no matter what stage of new motherhood you’re at) then you definitely need a taste of Hot Milk. We could drink it by the gallon.

Citizens of maternity

If like me you’re one of those women who live, sleep and will be buried in their jeans, then even the most blooming belly is unlikely to separate you from your denims. Maternity jeans that expand with your form are easy to find these days and trendy mamas will be thrilled to know that ultra hip brand Citizens of Humanity now does some fab, dare we say sexy, maternity jeans. So pack away those hipsters and slip into these Kelly bootcut jeans featuring a standard stretchy waistband to accommodate your growing bump. Grab a pair or more at Due Maternity online store.

Bag it up

Maybe you’re cutting down on sweet treats for the New Year. That’s no reason you can’t spoil yourself with a little arm candy. Put a little ooh la la in your stride with one of these oh-so-chic bags in Parisian wallpaper design by French designer duo Murval.



Durable, roomy and constructed out of a wipe-clean nylon fabric, these bags seem to have been designed with mamas in mind. The kind folks at Give Simple are featuring a Murval sale through January 16 with up to 30 percent discounts. So you can afford to buy a matching set including travel bag, vanity case and toiletry bag. Life has never been so hectic but thanks to Murval the illusion of organisation is within your reach.