When Amanda Holden announced yesterday that she was six months pregnant, her fans were delighted — but also astonished. In the past six months the Britain’s Got Talent star has never looked more svelte. So where on earth has she been hiding her baby bump?
In fact, as body-conscious mums will know, it is possible to hide the fact you’re in the family way well into the second trimester (even if you are feeling alternately sick and wanting to eat the entire contents of the nearest cake shop!).
All it needs is a bit of help from Mother Nature, sensible eating habits and some clever planning.
Next, as Amanda has proven, it’s all in the styling. First, don’t make your waistline the focus, advises Tiffany London, founder of the Tiffany Rose maternity wear brand, who has dressed pregnant celebs such as Myleene Klass and Emma Bunton.
‘Go for high-quality fabrics like jersey that have a bit of give,’ she advises. Don’t dress like you’re pregnant, either. Avoid Princess Diana-type smocks, yoga pants and slouchy maternity jeans.
Details and accessories are key, too. Amanda has used frills, large prints and jewellery. An unusual necklace can also distract people’s attention.
‘A long necklace or a scarf, a bit more décolletage — and it’s amazing how it draws the eye up,’ says Tiffany. General grooming helps as well. If you’re a believer in full-on slap, then carry on with the red lipsticks and blow-dries.
And finally: the truth is, weight gain is an inevitable — and healthy — side-effect of pregnancy.
But when it comes to being an undercover, yet stylish mum-to-be, Amanda’s proved she’s got talent.