I am not a fashionista but I like clothes. My style is not bold (like I would like to) or classic. Yet, I like pretty trendy things that make me feel fabulous. So imagine my frustration when I cannot find something cool and unique to wear during my pregnancy. I just feel like staying home and sulking.
The solution to this dilemma is to buy maternity clothes. Before maternity clothes meant oversized pants, skirts and tops. They were not cute or stylish in any way. However, now more than ever there are several fashion houses that develop cute maternity clothes. From the standard Motherhood Maternity to Liz Clairborne, you can find pretty stylish clothes. It just depends on how much you want to spend on clothes you may wear just for an amount of time.
As far as I am concerned, I do not like to shop for maternity clothes. I just find it crazy to buy clothes that you would wear for just an amount of time. And then lock away in your closet till the next pregnancy. That is why my alternative for looking hot during a pregnancy is to shop for standard clothes that can fit my growing belly or buy pregnancy clothes that are so cute and stylish that they can be worn even after the pregnancy. (Because even after you give birth, there is a big chance that you will not fit in your pre-pregnancy clothes)
Here is a list of clothes and accessories I need during a pregnancy
-Pregnancy Jeans:
I love jeans. They are my trademark. But they tend to be the first thing to become too tight once you become pregnant. That is why I am obliged to shop for pregnancy jeans. Now they are so trendy that you can find your fit without sacrificing your style. They even have pregnancy skinny jeans.
- Pregnancy belt:
If you are not really into the pregnancy jeans, you can just buy a pregnancy belt or a Bella Band. It is belt or band that your wrap around your waist. With this belt, you can still wear your favorite jeans because it supports your belly and the pants even if it is unbuttoned.
Bella Band available at www.ingridandisabel.com
-Loose blouses or tunics:
I like tunics and blouses. Since I gained weight during my college years, I realized that they were the perfect item to hide bulging belly and wide thighs. Therefore, I always purchase them instead of tight fitted tops. That is why I do not have problems dressing up at the beginning of a pregnancy because I have all the tops that can hide my belly from the get go. Yet, those clothes are good up to the 2nd trimester. For the 3rd trimester, maternity clothes will be definitely needed depending on how big you get.
DVF Tunic
Blouses available at gojane.com
- Flats:
I understand that some women- like SJP or Kelly Ripa- are so attached to their heels that they keep on wearing them even during their pregnancy. But I am not one of them. I like heels but I trade them for the comfort of flats. They are so many cute versions of the ballet flats, for every season and in every color. I recommend you get some a size a bit bigger than your usual size because your feet will swell during the pregnancy. Or just stick to sandals that are easy to slip on (if it is spring/summer).
Ballet flats available at payless.com
And if you absolutely must have your heels, get some with a kitty heels or wedges that are not too high. You will still feel sexy but your feet will not hurt as much.
Floral Wedges available at payless.com
-Dresses:
You can find dresses that are suitable for maternity in all styles. But I recommend the T-shirt dress or jersey dress for their comfort and funkiness; the wrap dress because the belt will make you look smart yet comfy even with a growing belly. Empire waist dress and baby dolls are another way of dressing up during a pregnancy. The design let your belly be free under the long fluid skirt while your breast are being retained by the empire waist. Or you can just go for a maxi dress that is flowy. Pick it in a floral and colorful tone. All these dresses will make you feel gorgeous even after giving birth because they will still hide the baby weight that you are dying to lose.
Jersey Dress available at oldnavy.com
DVF Wrap Dress
All types of Maxi Dresses
- Elastic band skirts:
If your zipper skirts get too tight, switch them with skirts with an elastic band. The elastic will let you wear them further down your pregnancy. I particularly enjoy those type of skirts when they are floor length.
- Lots of accessories:
Stack up on your accessories! They would brighten up any outfit. Moreover they are so playful that they can make you feel happy and glowing. I am thinking about huge bracelets, colorful and stylish rings, big and bold chains, even belts if you think you are up to it. Bags are also another option, go for colorful and textured bags that stand out.
Another important item that you will definitely need during the pregnancy is reliable underwear. You will need bras that will support your growing breast. You will also need panties that stay either low under the belly so that they will not get in the way. Hoses can also help you with the swelling and cramping of legs. It is absolutely necessary to get all those items in cotton to avoid chaffing.
I know getting dressed up can be tricky during pregnancy. But with a strong will and creativity, you can be both trendy and glowing during this interesting time of your life. I recommend you find inspiration in pregnancy magazines or plain fashion magazines. Looking at our celebrities does not hurt either.
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