Advice on modifying retro maternity dresses (PIP)

o_so_in_love

I have two dresses that my mother wore when she was pregnant with me and my sisters back in the 80s and 90s.  She bought these back with her from S. Korea.  Even if I don't wear them all the time I would at least like to take some nice photos in them.  What suggestions do you have for shoes, accessories, or modifications/alterations to make these look less like nightgowns?  I think you can click on them to make them bigger...

  

peacelove&mama

You need something to nip them in at the waist/above your bump to give them more shape. Maybe a simple rope belt? If the sleeves could go and the neckline could be changed that would make a huge difference too, but since they're souvenirs I dont know if you'd want to go that far.

kac22

If you really want to modify them, I would suggest having them shortened. It would make them look way more modern and even trendy! But I don't know if you want to alter them that much..

Other than that I would just wear a belt with them above your bump (to give you some shape) and slap on some chunky jewelry and wedges. It will make it look much more modern!  

MelleTX

I agree with the need for definition. I would suggest going to a vintage shop or someplace that sells really funky chunky jewelry and find a fun brooch. Gather the dress around the top of your bump to make it more empire waist and secure it with the brooch, it will have cascading like pleats down the front that will give it flow as well. 

I also agree that shortened to just above the knee would be cute too, if you don't mind cutting it off or hemming it.  

ilenegrace

Remove the sleeves

hgoodale

I agree with all of the above- if you feel bad about cutting it to make it shorter, maybe you could use the excess fabric to make something else? A pillow for the baby's room or a few bibs?

Totally agree that a belt or ribbon would give it a good finished look and dress it up.

mama2many

I'd alter the sleeves, take the length to around the knees, and add a belt to both. Make one slightly shorter than the other & do the sleeves diffferently on each so they don't look like the same dress.

jenyjeny

I would shorten the sleeves to above the elbow, the dress to above the knee (then come fall slap a pair of jeggings or leggings on, with high brown boots) add a defining belt (brown?) above the bump, and some chunky jewellery and wedges..

 

You could totally rock this as trendy/vintage! Good luck!