Ke’Koqueta: Sexy, comfortable maternity lingerie

(from Spring/Summer 08 collection)

Intimate Apparel is a great industry for problem-solving entrepreneurs: Miss Mandalay was created when its designer Lorraine couldn’t find a great larger-cup bra, and Elizabeth Cotton got her idea for fashionable loungewear after a Christmastime visit with the in-laws. These smaller labels are often successful thanks to their focus: they do one thing, and they do it very well.

There’s a new entrepreneur is on the scene, and she’s aiming to solve a problem plaguing expecting mothers: why can’t I look amazing while I’m pregnant? Designer Diane Benko lamented the lack of lovely, comfortable lingerie during her own two pregnancies, and decided to create her own – Ke’Koqueta (or “flirtatious”) lingerie. This label reflects its designer’s colourful spirit – bright teals and reds dominate a traditionally pastel style, and bold patterns sparkle from flirty-yet-comfortable designs. “I felt so amazing when I was pregnant,” Benko said, “I wanted to look that way too, I wanted to wear bright colours and wear wonderful fabrics.” She also wanted something that would fit comfortably over her belly, rather than revealing the bump – “You don’t always want your belly poking out.”

Our favourite piece is Diane’s adjustable, and soon detachable, underwear. “When I was in those last weeks of pregnancy and nothing fit, I said there’s no way I’m buying more panties, these will have to do!” With Diane’s new knickers, you can just adjust the sides to go wider, then tuck them back in after the pregnancy. A pack of two is $82, and we think would make a great baby shower gift.

We also love this teal embroidered babydoll, which is gauzy enough to be sexy but substantial enough to keep you covered. The babydoll is $97 at Zappos and also comes in pink. For a brighter colour, try the sweet ruffly red version.

U.S. readers can buy Ke’Koqueta’s winter collection at Zappos.com (they do more than shoes now!), and Spring’s collection will feature even more bright colours and patterns. This label has just started, so we’ll keep an eye out for more stockists in the future!