Melbourne-based Luciana Wallis really knows style. As a textile designer, stylist, product developer and content creator - she has garnered a wealth of experience across her 15 years in the industry. And of course with her extensive background in colour, print, pattern - and of course, fabric she really understands how to get the most out of your wardrobe. 

We asked the pregnant and blooming mum-of-one to try our best-selling Martha dress and share with us how she’d style this gem of a frock with her beautifully bump. Pure bliss.

Tell us a little about yourself: My name is Luciana and I am a textile designer, product developer and content creator living in Melbourne.  I run Lilt Blog, a website that is dedicated to promoting Australian fashion, art and design.

My 15 year experience within the textile industry has given me the incredible opportunity of working with some amazing printers, dyers, weavers and suppliers worldwide and I think this has really driven my love for design and craftsmanship, and made me curious about the people behind the local brands we love, which is why I started Lilt Blog.

I have an immense love for textiles, pattern and colour and this is deeply rooted in Lilt Blog’s message and aesthetic.

I really love working with Australian brands and creatives and it’s always my aim to create fun and approachable imagery, videos and content that elevates the voices of Australian designers, artists and business’ through creative and fun collaborations.

How would you describe your style? I would say that my style is feminine, colourful, playful & comfortable.

Does your style change when you’re pregnant? Yes definitely. I’d probably say my style has changed a lot since first becoming a mum (I currently am a mum to a 20 month old and have another on the way).

Before being a mum, you’d hardly ever see me in anything other than a dress. But recently I have been playing with separates a lot more. My body has changed quite a bit too, so I am having fun with different styles, like high waisted pants, button down shirts and flowy dresses.

I  also love mixing and matching different styles, and layering to get the most out of the pieces I own like I recently did for the Martha dress.

How would you wear Martha if you weren’t pregnant? To be honest, the beauty about the Martha dress is that it is so versatile. So wether I am pregnant or not, I would probably style it the same. I think that’s what’s wonderful about a style such as the Martha. It doesn’t have limitations and it would suit so many different body shapes and styles. 

What do you love about the Martha dress? There are so many things I love about this dress. 

As a textile designer, I of course love the fabric. The organic cotton is so lightweight and feels amazing on, and the print is playful yet timeless. Such a good option for anyone wanting to dip their toe into wearing more pattern.

I have to say that the silhouette is absolutely stunning too. I love a good dramatic sleeve, and the shirring details are a beautiful touch. The fabric belt also means you have an option of wearing the style loose or cinched which gives you so many more options for styling!

Style tips for Martha? 

• Play around with proportions, layering and tucking. The dress looks absolutely stunning as a piece on its own of course. But don’t be afraid to layer it with other items.
• For winter I would pop a turtleneck underneath, or layer with the gorgeous Kaia Vest and finish off with boots.
• For spring & summer, it’s the perfect throw on style. Worn loose it has a gorgeous bohemian aesthetic, yet you can really play with the silhouette by cinching in the waist, pulling up the sleeves slightly, and untying the neckline for a more polished look.
• There are so many small ways we can dramatically change a look and make the most out of our wardrobes when we give ourselves permission to play with fashion. So have fun with it!