The Model Embracing Bold Maternity Style

May 20, 2022
Jjanga Horne

As a mom who's expecting her third baby, my biggest consideration when it comes to style is comfort. I love, for instance, to think of ways to add elements of texture, like denim or silk, to an otherwise simple outfit. 

My biggest pregnancy-style aspiration is actually to avoid maternity clothes and lean into pieces you wouldn't think to wear as a pregnant mother — I think it's fun to be bold and unexpected. My style philosophy? Have fun and don't overthink it. 

As a Korean American woman who's a size 14 and heavily tattooed, I've faced tons of challenges being accepted by family and other Korean people. I used to struggle with my body image and have suffered from past disorders that have led me to have body dysmorphia. 

Once I had my daughter, I realized I had to make a change. That's why I started to model and to push for representation for the many other Asian women out there who can relate. My body is beautiful and the art on it has its stories.

Here's a glimpse into my maternity style and some recent outfits I'm obsessed with. 

Comfy (and Sexy) Date Night

Jjanga wearing the Micro Modal Rib Bodysuit in Cloud from the Ashley Graham x Knix Collection display: full

For date night I love incorporating comfy staple pieces, like this Micro Modal Rib Bodysuit in Cloud from the Ashley Graham x Knix Collection, with my favorite silk vintage pajamas.

Dressing up vintage PJs is a great way to add a fun twist to an outfit — and it keeps things comfy (hello, stretchy waistbands) and sexy. Since I'm pregnant and my feet are already swelling, I love these amazing heels that velcro adjust, which is so genius and chic. One of my favorite accessories is my vintage film camera and a pop of color with my neon clutch. 

Since I was a teenager, I've always incorporated vintage silk pajamas, lace slips, and dusters into my outfits. To this day it’s my go-to when I don’t know what to wear. As a mother, comfort is a huge and realistic part of my wardrobe.

Maternity Style in Manhattan 

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I’m in love with finding ways to showcase my little bump in non-maternity clothing. I found this adorable dress that has a cutout and loosened the knot so my whole bump could be exposed.

Since I was walking through Manhattan for a few photoshoots, I threw on the comfiest cowboy boots. I often pair them with my outfits because I'm all about reusing. 

Embracing My Curves in Vintage

Jjanga wearing the Mesh Deep-V Bodysuit in Ginger Cookie from the Ashley Graham x Knix Collection display: full

I'm in love with the Ashley Graham x Knix Mesh Deep-V Bodysuit and was instantly inspired to throw on my vintage satin duster and satin mini skirt with some cute cowboy boots. It's the perfect outfit for brunch or the farmers market. The bodysuit makes me feel so confident (and holds my ladies), so I can boldly go anywhere and not worry. 

I recently had the opportunity to walk for multiple designers for NYFW, which was a massive milestone as a curve model. Ashley Graham has been a massive role model when it comes to modeling — I've been following her journey and its truly inspiring how beautiful she remains to herself without care of size. 

She hasn't been deterred by the fashion industry's perception of curvy women and continues to embrace herself relentlessly. I was nervous to get into modeling now that I'm 30, but chose to channel my inner Ashley Graham and embrace myself relentlessly, too. 

An Ivory Moment

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I've been living for white clothing lately — I'm obsessed with how bright and fresh it looks. My fiancé and I were invited to a five course meal at the finest sushi in Manhattan that night.

I got dolled up in a satin gown and, once again, my super comfy white velcro heels. I was shocked and proud that I didn't get a drop of food on the dress the entire night. 

Bright Hues and Billowy Silhouettes

display: fullI'm all about looking cute in the comfiest way, so when I find a smock dress in fun colors I’m instantly drawn in. I love that this dress screams summer and can be paired with comfy sneakers. 

Pink is one of my all-time favorite colors, so I’ll never miss out on a pink moment. Especially fuschia, it looks phenomenal on my skin. 

Letting the Bump Shine

Jjanga wearing the Micro Modal Rib Bralette and Micro Modal High Rise in Peony from the Ashley Graham x Knix Collection display: full

Lately, I've been feeling inspired by 90s fashion with its boxy silk silhouettes and light washed denim. I paired this Ashley Graham x Knix Micro Modal Rib Bralette and Micro Modal High Rise Underwear set underneath as a fun way to showcase my bump. 

Speaking of which, can we just take a moment to admire Rihanna's maternity fashion? She is the moment —and the glow is just glowing.