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In mid-June, nail artist Mei Kawajiri posted photos to her Instagram page celebrating nearly 25 weeks of pregnancy. The selfies showcased her growing bump peeking out between short shorts and a matching cropped cami tank, as well as the drink used in glucose testing during pregnancy, her favorite food cravings, and some baby swag. In the caption, Kawajiri mentioned how much fun she’s had and that it’s been a “really precious moment”. That’s the thing about Kawajiri–her well-documented, anime-inspired style and nail art has always been about having fun.
Kawajiri’s aesthetic—from her oft-surrealist, incredibly intricate nails to her closet filled with Comme des Garçons and Miu Miu—is fully kawaii (the Japanese term for cute). Pregnancy hasn’t changed her sunny outlook on fashion either. In fact, it’s strengthened her love for anything and everything classified as adorable–she is still wearing her favorite poofy tops and micro minis, even if they now come with elastic waists instead of zippers. Kawajiri has embraced pregnancy in a way that is positive and enlightening but also empowering. Like the daring moms among us taking cues from Rihanna, she is having a blast with her new body and continuing to express herself in the most playful ways possible.
Aside from the crazy cool pregnancy wardrobe, Kawajiri has turned inward a bit more during the first and second trimesters. She already feels deeply connected to her baby and is eager to experience all that awaits once they arrive. For now, though, it is just total cuteness overload for Kawajiri, and below, she explains exactly why.
Vogue: How far along are you and do you know what you’re having? If you’re comfortable sharing, of course!
Mei Kawajiri: I am about 6 months! This is my first child and we’re keeping the gender a secret for now.
How has your pregnancy been thus far?
It’s been a very introspective and curious time, especially when I think about how my body has changed and my moods have shifted. I can’t believe that I am creating a new human being, and I never thought I would feel such a miracle like this. It’s all gone well, but I did have some trouble not feeling well when traveling during my second trimester.
Has anything surprised you during your pregnancy journey thus far? Anything you didn’t expect?
I’m surprised that now that I’m in my third trimester I am acting like a total angel—lol! I’m truly never angry and just always feeling happy. I am also surprised that I am craving mostly healthy foods like oranges and salads.
You wrote a very sweet Mother’s Day post about everything that you’re learning from moms and your own mom—what’s some of the best advice you’ve received thus far and has your pregnancy brought you closer to your own mom?
I think about myself and my baby always. I try to be healthy and happy for the baby, realizing that what I eat, the baby eats, what I say, the baby is listening, and if I sleep well, the baby sleeps well. I feel very strongly connected to them. I now know what my mom feels like–and felt like–with me. She started worrying about me and feeling connected when she was pregnant and I completely understand that now.
How would you describe your personal style pre-pregnancy and how has it evolved during the pregnancy?
During the beginning of my pregnancy, I was still wearing all of my usual clothing. It felt a little tight but I was still wearing miniskirts. Now I can’t really because the zipper won’t go all the way up, so I switched to stretch material for skirts and dresses. I still love mini silhouettes and of course, kawaii style, so I stick to what I love, however I can. I will never be the simple-pregnancy-dress kind of girl.
What have been some of your go-to pregnancy wardrobe staples and why?
Mostly stretchy miniskirts! I haven’t really worn long pants except for sweatpants at home.
What do you think about the term “mom style” or “pregnancy style”—does this term feel limited or out-of-touch for you?
I think big pregnant bellies are the cutest! Showing off my belly feels like part of my personal style now and I am enjoying it so much.
You seem to have really embraced your bump with all of your amazing baby bump selfies you’ve been sharing—how have these made you feel and what sort of responses have you been getting from your followers?
I have been getting the sweetest, nicest comments ever! I think baby bumps are so special and it’s such a precious moment. Someone even sent me a DM to say “I wish I took more pictures when I was pregnant just like you.”
Have you already shopped for your little one, and has it been exciting to think about what they may wear or what their own personal style will be?
I got the cutest baby shoes in Japan. Also, my mom and my fiancé’s mom gave us really adorable clothes. But honestly, I am more excited to see what the baby will gravitate toward in terms of fashion. My baby might not like miniskirts, so I want to respect their style. I remember my mom made me wear these black-and-white striped shirts when I was little and I hated them, so I want my child to dress themselves however they choose.