Long ago are the days of baggy maternity overalls, tent-like shirts and ugly muumuus. Today’s mom-to-be can still be comfortable and chic at the same time by following the tips below.
1. Buy one size larger in regular clothes. For the first trimester and into the second, buy clothes in the regular women’s department in a size larger than what you normally wear. Many times your original size will not fit, but maternity clothes are way too big on you. With today’s fashions, you’ll be able to fit in these clothes for quite awhile. Look for a-line cuts and babydoll styles that will camouflage your emerging belly. This is for when you have a bugger tummy, but don’t quite look pregnant yet. You will also be able to wear these clothes after the baby, otherwise known as the fourth trimester, to hide the after baby pooch.
2. Show off your new curves. Once you do start showing, let everyone know it by showing off your belly in stretch maternity tops. They will nicely hug your belly and will also show off your other growing assets. What better time to be proud of your body and curves that you have. Also, at this point, if you were huge, unfitted shirts, it will just make you look larger all around, instead of emphasizing that belly bump.
3. Invest in a comfortable pair of jeans. There are tons of different styles and cuts of maternity jeans now. You can choose from different waistbands and different kinds of maternity panels and also what kind of style leg it has. Make sure you try on several different styles to see which one is most comfortable to you. All woman carry differently during pregnancy and what one woman may think is comfortable may not be comfortable to you. It can even vary from your own pregnancies in what is comfortable to you. If you do find the perfect fit, buy two and don’t be afraid to spend some money on them as they most likely will be a staple in your wardrobe.
4. Layer. Layering pieces will add more personality to your outfit. Layer camis and tanks under sweaters, dresses and other t-shirts. You can add more color and make your outfit look more put together this way. Also, as you near the end of your pregnancy you will notice that not all shirts will cover your belly anymore, so you will need to layer another longer tank underneath if you want full coverage of your belly.
5. Flats will be your friend. It is a good thing that flats are in fashion right now because during your pregnancy they will become your best friend. You are not going to want to be wearing heels everyday when your feet have swollen beyond recognition. Flats come in all styles ranging from casual to dressy and can be worn with jeans or dresses
6. Wear cute and comfortable dresses. Dresses are a lot more comfortable than pants when you are pregnant. Dresses give you the freedom of not having a waistband digging into your belly. There are so many cute maternity dresses and even take a look at the regular women’s department as there are many styles that are flowy enough that it will fit while you are pregnant. The hottest trend right now with dresses are maxi dresses, which are long dresses that come down o your ankles or the floor and are loose and not restricting. Gwen Stefani and Angelina Jolie have been seen sporting these dresses during their pregnancies.
7. Tracksuits can be fun. Tracksuits can be worn all pregnancy as a cute and casual option without looking sloppy. Make sure you get one that is not to tight, but it should not be too loose that it makes you look unkempt. Buy a bold matching suit so you can have some style when your out running errands or just lounging around the house.
8. Buy new undergarments. You most likely will have to buy more than one size bra throughout your pregnancy. With your every changing shape you want to make sure that you have a bra that fits, is comfortable and definitely gives you ample support. Buying new underwear is also a good idea, as you do not want them to be too tight around your stomach or hips. You may just have to go up a size or two in regular sizes or you can purchase some maternity underwear. A good option is buying low rise underwear if you do not want to purchase the maternity underwear. This way the underwear will sit under your belly.
9. Accessorize. When you are feeling that nothing fits, add some jewelry or a scarf to make your outfit pop. Accessories are a great way to still feel stylish. A funky necklace or bracelet cuff will add some flavor into your outfit and you can feel better about what you are wearing. Other ideas are to add a broach or pin to a plain sweater or dress; wear a watch that sparkles to add some creativity to your outfit; add some jewelry pieces in bold colors to draw attention to those pieces and away from the parts of yourself you are not happy with.
10. Take care of your body. There is no better time to take care of your body than when you are pregnant. Use lotions to moisturize and sunscreens to protect from sunburns. Make sure you get your hair trimmed every 4-6 weeks, as your hair grows faster when you are pregnant. Pamper yourself with manicures, pedicure and facials. Eat healthy and it will show in your skin. If you are taking care of yourself and your baby, you will definitely shine on the outside.
Buying a maternity wardrobe does not have to be expensive. A couple of places that have nice clothes that won’t break the bank are Motherhood Maternity, Old Navy, JC Penney and Target. If you are looking for something a little more expensive or have an important event that you want to splurge on, try A Pea In The Pod and Mimi Maternity.
