StyleNest caught up with founder of Pretty Pregnant, Evelyne Callens to talk business, motherhood and the best way to dress your bump during pregnancy.

Evelyne Callens started up Pretty Pregnant in 2004 to bring stylish maternity and nursing clothes to the UK market. Originally from Antwerp, Belgium, Eve loves nothing more than shoe shopping, a classic Breton and cheese and tomato baguettes! We caught up with the busy mum of four to talk motherhood, style and running a successful business.

Tell us about Pretty Pregnant. Where did the idea come from?

We opened a children’s wear shop on the Northcote Road, Clapham and had ladies coming in daily asking if we also did maternity wear. In Belgium (my home town) maternity wear is huge business and so I brought some of the beautiful clothes I’d found over there to the UK market.

Did you find your style changed when you entered motherhood?

Yes, I loved wearing dresses while usually I don’t. I also tried different colours and have been an avid print fan ever since. Sometimes pregnancy is a great excuse to experiment a little (you can always blame your hormones if you look back at the pictures with horror!) For me it was a turning point in how I saw my body before and after my pregnancies. Your body image can go through so many changes but with a little extra style and some fab maternity pieces there’s no reason why the changes can’t be positive ones.

What’s your failsafe look when you have just a moment to get ready?

Designer jeans and heels without a doubt. For me there’s nothing better or easier than slipping into my favourite denims and failsafe heels. Simple, stylish and most importantly, effortless – which when you have four children under for that becomes paramount.

Any styling tips you can offer our readers?

Try out prints – don’t be afraid of colour or pattern. Pregnancy is a great time to try a few new things and contrary to popular belief a well designed print can actually do wonders for your figure. I particularly love a floral print. At Pretty Pregnant this season we embraced a fashion forward digital floral that I absolutely adore. In deep emerald green it’s a fantastic look for Autumn. I’d also go for figure hugging styles rather than the old adage of ‘tents’. I’m not saying every pregnant lady should slip into a bodycon, but when clothes are fitted in the right places it really works. And you’re still you. Despite the baby bump don’t lose sight of what your best bits are and work with them.

Do you have any top tips for dressing when pregnant?

Go for luxury basics if you can and buy quality as it will last much longer. You can get away with say one pair of jeans that you can dress up or down and one great dress that will work for that wedding/Christmas do/dinner party.. Use your pre-bump accessories to liven everything up and above all else don’t even dream of wearing a single thing that doesn’t make you feel good.

What are your favourite high street and designer brands?

I love Jaeger, Whistles or any great brands that offer something a little extra than your average. I find the qualities great and they always get the little details spot on.

Who is your style icon? 

I’d say Bridget Bardot is a real classic look that I try to emulate. I adore anything Breton striped and love my denims and huge handbags. Its practical and still stylish as I need all hands on deck with my four. In the evening it’s a different story, when my partner and I are together I love to dress up. Evening dresses in stylish prints and silk fabrics are a favourite. When you don’t get to dress up that often its best to be luxurious and really make the most of it.

Are you off on holiday soon? Is there one particular family friendly hotel you would go back to time and time again? 

We’re just back from Marrakesh and off skiing soon. Having four kids I find that hiring a  huge house or villa is easier. After all, this age will never happen again so from Marrakesh to the Alps, I want my children to relish and remember it all.

Mums have a real voice nowadays through social media.  Are there any mummy bloggers you follow? 

I love the Dulwich Mum blog. I find the topics and posts really resonate with me both because I live in the area and I find they represent the modern mum really well.

We are always looking for new recipes on StyleNest; do you have a failsafe family dish you swear by? 

I love oven dishes. Chicken breast wrapped in foil with red peppers, onion, pancetta and Italian herbs. Put it in the oven for 40 minutes and serve with baby potatoes. Delicious, easy and the kind of winter warmer food we really need in this weather.

Do you have a particular restaurant that you love going to but that is also family friendly? 

We love Rocca in Dulwich Village where they serve delicious pizzas, have highchairs, and the kids can run around. It’s a real family place that offers fantastic food, atmosphere and a genuine welcome for the children.

What book are you reading at the moment?

I just finished Theodore Dalrymple which was food for thought. I plan to read something more light hearted now!  There’s nothing better than a good red wine and an even better book some evenings.

Are there any mums out there who really inspire you? 

My best friend who has three children a few years older than mine. I learned so much from her, from applying for nursery places, to how to deal with it all. It’s great to have a close friend on hand who can help you with all the little things and I really admire her as a friend and a parent. Sometimes true inspirations are right in front of you rather than an iconic figure or ‘celeb’.

To find out more about Pretty Pregnant or to shop online visit PrettyPregnant.co.uk