We caught up with fashion designer Jade Holland Cooper as she shares her pregnancy essentials and new-parent must-haves ahead of the arrival of her baby girl.
Jade Holland Cooper, owner of British lifestyle brand Holland Cooper, and her husband, Superdry founder Julian Dunkerton, are somewhat of a fashion industry power couple. So when the pair announced they were expecting a baby back in May, we knew Jade would provide some serious inspiration when it comes to bump dressing and pregnancy essentials.
Jade and Julian recently revealed they are set to welcome their first child, a baby girl, in November. Before the little one makes her arrival we caught up with the mum-to-be to chat all things pregnancy and the hero products helping her through the journey.
You’re expecting a baby girl, congratulations! How have you found the pregnancy?
Thanks so much, we are really excited! For most of my pregnancy, I have been very lucky, apart from some back pain and tiredness which has increased as I approach my due date. I have found regular pregnancy massages and Pilates have been amazing.
What’s been the biggest adjustment?
Juggling the high demand of work as we were preparing for our biggest season was very challenging. Before, I would have drunk coffee and powered through, but I have had to listen to my body and adjust.
How have you found dressing your bump?
I have been living in the new Holland Cooper Kensington Jumper Dresses, it’s just as comfortable as it is flattering. The chevron ribbed fabric creates a body-contouring fit while the high roll neck ensures you feel warm and cosy.
Sounds like a wardrobe staple! Are you still able to wear many items from your Holland Cooper collection?
Luckily, I am still able to wear pieces from the collection. For AW20 we have introduced our first plus-sized model after receiving such positive feedback from our customers to show that all women, no matter their body shape, can wear Holland Cooper.
So, what are your favourite pieces from the Holland Cooper AW20 collection?
I am super excited about our new Wellington boots, our first piece of footwear. Fully lined with Sherpa and 100% waterproof. I have been wearing mine with the new Arosa Coat which is perfect for the recent wet weather we’ve been having.
Also, the new slim capes have a fitted shoulder detail and relaxed fit making them a super comfortable, easier to wear piece. My new favourite accessory are our pure silk scarfs, hand-rolled in the UK for a premium finish. They are super versatile, can be worn as a hair tie, bag tie or a scarf and they come in a gorgeous gift box, perfect for Christmas.
Have you had any pregnancy cravings?
Cheese sandwiches, I have lived on cheese sandwiches! Also, yoghurts, I don’t usually eat dairy, but the baby must be craving the calcium.
Have you been enjoying shopping for baby?
I have loved the experience. Jules and I have spent so much quality time together over lockdown and this has been a truly special and exciting time.
What’s been your favourite new baby purchase?
The Silver Cross vintage style pram. I love it, seeing it for the first time made it all seem so real.
What are your pregnancy essentials? Can you share your three hero products?
My Serola support belt, it’s super discreet and handy, an amazing piece of kit for extra back support. I could not live without it.
I have had a lot of people ask me if I have suffered from stretch marks and luckily they haven’t been an issue and I swear by the Neals Yard mother balm it feels gorgeous, I apply it day and night to keep myself moisturised it’s a must-have product.
Another product I wouldn’t be able to live without is the smoothing high-waisted thongs from Figleaves, they are the best pants I have bought! They don’t cut into the skin, they are so comfortable and soft and completely seamless and are also available in lots of different shades.
Do you have any other recommendations for new mums or mums-to-be?
I have been focusing on comfort during my pregnancy. I would recommend this to all new mothers. I have been living in my Meng dressing gown, pure silk, and available in a variety of gorgeous prints, I love it.
Also, the Holland Cooper loungewear sets, the super-stretch, soft fabric provides comfort whilst remaining stylish.
I also think it is essential to unwind and take some time for yourself, something I found very hard at the start of my pregnancy. I would recommend relaxing baths with scented candles.
What are you most looking forward to about motherhood?
I am looking forward to welcoming our baby daughter into our home and spending some quality family time together.
Have you decided on a name yet? Can you give us any clues…
We have found this very difficult. My recommendation to new mothers would be the book- 100,000 + baby names by Bruce Lansky, this has helped us a lot.
What newborn baby essentials have you been stockpiling?
I have a selection of breast-feeding clothing from Seraphine. I would 100% recommend. The fabric is super soft making them both comfortable, practical and stylish.
Have you had any interesting pearls of wisdom from other mums?
My mother has been a great support to me during my pregnancy. I have also really enjoyed being able to share my pregnancy journey on social media, as I have received such amazing support and advice from fellow mums.
Let’s talk about the nursery. You’ve been busy getting this ready for little one’s arrival.
Yes, super busy we want the nursery to be perfect.
What’s been the inspiration behind it?
The inspiration is Tropical Jungle and the colour scheme is soft pink, gold and cyan. My favourite thing about the nursery is the bespoke De Gournay wallpaper.
What’s been your favourite nursery purchase so far?
A bespoke Zebra rocking horse from Stevenson Brothers.
What are your nursery interior design tips for new parents?
Start with a clear theme, take your time and enjoy sourcing different textiles and fabrics and individual pieces that reflect your style and complement the space.
Have you got any exciting projects coming up with your Holland Cooper label? Any collaborations we should know about?
We have partnered with leading luxury influencer and founder of the fashion and beauty blog inthefrow.com, Victoria Magrath.
Victoria came to our Cotswold studio to style and shoot her favourite pieces from our new AW20 collection for a capsule edit, which is live on our website now www.hollandcooper.com.
Read More:
- Millie Mackintosh Shares Her Pregnancy Essentials
- Leonora Bamford’s Little Luxuries
- Louise Pentland Opens up About her Traumatic Childbirth
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