Designer Cécile Reinaud tells Ayushi Sharma that there is a huge demand for maternity fashion on a global level from what it used to be a few years ago. It started in America, trickled into Europe and it has now reached India
Frumpy, loose, unbecoming and not in the least stylish — these are some words that are associated with maternity fashion. However, pregnancy doesn’t have to mean dressing up in sacks or its closest equivalent. Celebrities like Kareena Kapoor Khan and Beyonce amping up the fashion quotient during pregnancy has ensured that there is no flagging in the social pressure to look good even during this time.
It’s true that fashioning clothes for a changing body is a daunting task but designer Cécile Reinaud apprises us that there is a huge demand for maternity fashion on a global level compared to what it used to be a few years back. It started in America, trickled into Europe and it has now reached India, a nation that has spread its arms wide to welcome this niche segment. The consumers demand something comfortable yet fashionable, so it will definitely flourish exponentially in the coming years.
Just like traditional fashion, many trends exist in maternity garments as well. She notes that denim wear is extremely popular because most women love to dress up their closet with the fabric. From skinny jeans to denim dresses and shirts, this is a favourite across the globe. The other trend is floral prints — from pale pinks to light blues, these never go out of fashion. It is not just the safest to follow but also a classy style to adopt during that phase.
There has been a substantial change in the way expectant mothers live their lives as compared to yesteryears. This sensibility too has to be blended into designs. She says that women are educated, well-travelled and they believe in being always on point. The same attitude can be seen even when they are pregnant. Every woman wants to look stylish and elegant no matter whether it is in office or at a party — a bump doesn’t deter them. Since, it is a new chapter in a woman’s life, nothing should detract them from enjoying it to the fullest. The designs are created keeping in mind the modern woman’s desire to look chic everyday and also be able to re-use these apparel post-pregnancy.
Dressing in the way you like can keep you positive, happy and comfortable, even as you face this big change in life. Fancy maternity outfit is becoming a necessity as compared to the past, especially in India. She says that women in metros have a career and they want to look smart and sophisticated as they head out. “In a professional space, if you don’t dress up well, people don’t take you seriously, especially with a big belly. It becomes even more important to dress sharp to show you are on top of things. This phenomenon started 15 years ago in the UK and now has gained prominence among the new generation of Indian women who are career-driven. With the advent of the social media, women take inspiration from the way celebs and influencers dress up, regardless of the situation or their phase of life. This has driven the demand for more comfortable clothes for every stage of a woman’s life, including pregnancy,” adds Cecile, who has also designed outfits for many royals including the future queen of England, Kate Middleton.
She believes that the maternity fashion scene in India is not very different as compared to other countries. However, Cécile further adds, “Indian women like to dress up more modestly, so they avoid low cut V necks. They are more comfortable with sleeves attached to their dresses and tops. Weather too plays a role. It is hot most of the months in the country so we look for fabrics that are light and that will keep you cool, while making you feel adequately covered and elegant.”
(The designer is also the founder and the managing director of Séraphine.)
