Pregnancy fashion begins with maternity shapewear
March 11, 2013
“Celebrities always look so fantastic because underneath their fabulous frocks is the perfect foundation of shapewear,” says Olivia Capone Myers, design director for A Pea in the Pod. “Shapewear gives them the confidence to rock the red carpet, and it will give you confidence, too.”
Check out these maternity cocktail dresses
Pregnant Kim Kardashian works hard to keep her curvalicious figure in shape, but we’re guessing she had some extra help keeping it together in the form-fitting white dress she wore to the Elton John AIDS Foundation’s Oscar Viewing Party last month.
Find out how you can stay in shape with Kim’s trainer
“In order to feel comfortable, I think it’s crucial to find the right layering pieces,” says Olivia. “Camouflaging seams and panty lines creates a more seamless look.”
And there are a lot of maternity shapewear options to choose from, like these:
- Skinny Britches from Spanx by A Pea in the Pod ($42, Destination Maternity): Available in black, nude and pink, Skinny Britches firm tummy, hips, thighs and bottom without binding, pinching or bulging. A cotton gusset is built in for maximum comfort.
- Seamless Strapless Slip by A Pea in the Pod ($40, Destination Maternity): This dark nude foundation piece is strapless and seamless and features a shelf bra. Wear it under every dress and skirt.
“Having the added support that shapewear gives is especially important as your body transforms during and after your pregnancy,” says Olivia, who is currently pregnant. Try these postpartum options:
- Pea Control Nursing Cami by A Pea in the Pod ($39, Destination Maternity): This seamless black camisole features spaghetti straps, scoop neck and a mesh lining. Perfect for those weeks and months following your newborn’s arrival.
- C-panty Tummy Cut Incision Care by A Pea in the Pod ($48, Destination Maternity): The nude panty features is specifically designed for C-section recovery. Incision-area silicone and compression help diminish scarring, swelling, sensitivity and tenderness – all while providing perfect tummy support and slimming.
“As a mom-to-be, layering camisoles and shapers are my new best friend,” says Olivia. “I throw them under absolutely everything!”
Photo: FayesVision/WENN.com
More pregnancy fashion tips:
Maternity maxi dresses to the rescue!
High-end career fashions for your pregnancy
Stylish baby wrap slings
Find the perfect baby wrap sling
March 7, 2013
Baby wrap slings are not only practical… they’re also a great way to display your awesome postpartum style.
Both you and baby benefit from the simple, old-fashioned concept of the baby sling:
- breastfeed discreetly while on the go
- calm fussy/colicky baby
- develop strong mother-child bond
- keep baby safe and close while keeping hands free
No matter what your personal style, there’s a wrap sling for it. Check out these fun finds:
Edgy pattern
The “wicked cool” Skulleton Invisibly Adjustable Baby Sling by Mamma’s Milk (shown) features an edgy rose and skull design. The fully lined 100% cotton cling is infinitely adjustable to provide a perfect fit for Mom, Dad and baby. It easily slips on and off and can be used for infants and toddlers. ($54, MammasMilk.com)
UV Protection
Protect your baby from harmful UV rays with the Moby Wrap UV Cotton Baby Carrier. The wide fabric wraps over both shoulders to distribute weight evenly and keep both of your hands free. This comfy, easy-to-wear sling can be used for babies from preemie to 35 pounds. ($50-55, Walmart.com)
Organic
The Hava Chic Organic Baby Sling is practical and sophisticated. The 100% organic cotton fabric is beautifully gathered and features a hidden pocket in the decorative tail. Sleek padding and aluminum rings provide easy adjustability. ($80, BabyEarth.com)
Parent favorite
There are more than a dozen colors and patterns of the Maya Wrap Baby Sling. The top-rated sling – recommended for babies 8 to 35 pounds – changes positions to accommodate your child as he grows. You’ll enjoy the convenience of a nursing cover-up that doubles as a carrier for your keys, cell phone and extra diaper! ($74, MayaWrap.com)
Photo: Mamma’sMilk.com
More pregnancy fashion
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Chic nursing loungewear
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Spring 2013 Diaper Bag Trend: Metallics
February 28, 2013
Funky diaper bags are a great way to flaunt your post-partum style, and this season’s bags make it easy to pull off. Taking a cue from the Oscar styles of famous moms Halle Berry, Catherine Zeta-Jones and Naomi Watts, diaper bags are looking tres chic in brilliant metallic fabrics. Come shop with us!
Make a bold statement with the Black Metallic Out & About Diaper Bag by Oi Oi Baby Bags pictured here ($84, LuxuryLamb.com). Made of metallic distressed faux leather and featuring gunmetal lining and trim, this stain-resistant bag features adjustable straps, exterior pockets and a changing pad.
Add some bling with a Baby Name Beaded Pacifier Clip ($58, LuxuryLamb.com). The personalized sterling silver clip can be used with any pacifier. A keepsake!
The Kalencom Ozz Metallic Messenger Bag in Silver Dots has the cool finish of a suit of armor ($88, Diapers.com). This fashion-forward bag includes a coordinating zippered pouch, changing pad, insulated bottle sleeve and detachable stroller strap.
Bonus: The Ozz diaper bag is free of Phthalates/DEHP, DBP and BOP.
For quick trips that don’t require a full-size diaper bag, there’s the Metallic Baby Essentials Mini Crinkle Nylon Shoulder Diaper Bag by Baby Essentials ($16, ToysRUs.com). It may be “mini,” but it’s big on features with a magnetic flap closure, side bottle pockets, changing pad and adjustable shoulder strap.
You’ll use this bag long after your baby’s out of diapers.
All that glitters is gold with the Kalencom Quilted Gold Traveler ($90, Sears.com). This bag is big on design and comes with a matching Thinsulate™ insulated bottle bag, coordinating zippered pouch and large fold-out changing pad.
Carrying options are great with hand straps, shoulder straps and detachable stroller straps.
When the essentials are all you need, grab the JJ Cole Silver Drop changing clutch. The black-and-cream wallet-style bag unfolds to padded changing station with space for three diapers and a wipes case.
Toss it in your larger diaper bag, attach it to your stroller or wear it like a wristlet with the chic silver strap.
More pregnancy fashion
Metallic maternity tops
Spring 2013 maternity trends
Kate Middleton’s tiny baby bump
Chic nursing loungewear for day and night
February 12, 2013
Those days and nights following the birth of your newborn are so special. You’re getting to know each other as you begin your beautiful life together. These precious days, weeks and months are also the most exhausting: sleepless nights, round-the-clock feedings and kindly visitors bearing food and gifts.
You want to look your very best for company, but baby comes first. These adorable postpartum lounging sets are perfect for the time spent at home with baby and entertaining well-wishers. You may not actually have time to “lounge,” but at least you’ll look great!
Wish we could wear this Long-Sleeve Lace Trim Nursing 3-Piece Set everywhere ($50, Motherhood® Maternity.com)! The Charcoal set features a long-sleeve belted top, a nursing tank and super-comfy lounge pants. You’ll want to live in this!
For warmer days, consider the Sleeveless Pleated Nursing 2-Piece Set ($89, A Pea in the Pod.com). The Heather Gray jersey-knit set is pleated and boasts a faux wrap style. Perfect for feeding baby on a warm sun porch or shady deck.
No one will guess that you’re wearing loungewear when you opt for the Larrivo® Emily Camisole Set ($138, MothersBoutique.com). Mix and match the colors and patterns of the Emily Camisole, Dakota Pants and Ella Jacket. The built-in NutureBra® Support System features an easy-to-open hidden snap to make nursing a breeze!
The Expressiva™ Paisley Print Nursing Nightgown ($42, exp….com) looks more like a sweet sundress than sleepwear. The charming print gives the nightgown a vintage look and the drop-cup design is easy to open with one hand.
More postpartum style tips
Drool-worthy diaper bags to splurge on
Ameda nursing bras and camisoles
Adorable nursing tops for spring
Droolworthy diaper bags to splurge on
September 19, 2012
We have rounded up our pick of totally fab designer diaper bags that are worth the splurge. These aren’t your average diaper totes with pastel colors and Disney characters – they are stylish, chic and functional to boot!
Don’t be surprised if you carry the pictured Mia Bossi Audrey Diaper Bag long after your kids are out of diapers – and for $1,210 you may want to carry it until they are in college! Available at Petit Tresor, this bag is made of gorgeous Italian Barolo leather and features printed leather snakeskin trim. It includes a washable faux fur changing pad, zip and zip-out lining and plenty of spots for diapers, bottles and cell phones.
For Burberry fans, you will love their signature checks on the Burberry Check Print Diaper Bag ($950, Nordstrom). This designer bag features a changing mat, adjustable should strap and protective metal feet.
For the boho mama, you will love OiOi Jungle Leather Diaper Bag ($325, Nordstrom). This bag is made of distressed lambskin leather and includes a changing pad, wipes case, insulated bottle holder and has water resistant lining.
Gaga for Gucci? You will die over the Large GG Diaper Bag ($950, Neiman Marcus). This hip bag features their signature beige/ebony GG fabric with brown leather trim and gold hardware and is made of an adjustable messenger strap design.
Also check out: What to wear during labor and delivery >>
Fall essentials for new moms
August 31, 2012
If you are preparing your new mom wardrobe for fall, make sure you stock up on these essentials that are flattering, easy and stylish. When you have a new baby to take care of, you need clothes that don’t require much work and – if they disguise spit-up that is an added bonus!
A blazer is a fall new mom must-have because it is chic, easy and (best of all!) conceals your postpartum tummy. Look for blazers that fall below your waist, as cropped blazers will only highlight your midsection. Blazers aren’t only for working moms anymore! Pair them with jeans and a white tee for a stylish look. Unstructured blazers are great, such as this Reversible Blazer by Sol Angeles from Piperlime. Love!
A shift dress is a great choice for new moms because it is stylish and is great for concealing your midsection. I love this green floral Miami Shift Dress ($79) with a cute hi-low hemline. Wear this with wedges for dressier occasions or keep it casual in flats.
Colored denim and pants are the hottest trend this season. To wear this trend and flatter your new mom curves, opt for boot-cut jeans over skinny or tapered leg jeans. Darker colors, such as indigo or navy blue, will slim better than bright pinks or corals.
Lastly, oxford shirts are back in a big way. Wear them untucked with jeans and printed ballet flats for a look that is perfect for fall. One great pick is the Fitted Boyfriend Chambray Ruffle Shirt ($55, Gap).
More new mom fashion tips:
Chic nursing tops for fall
How to prepare your breastfeeding wardrobe
Nursing bra basics
Chic nursing tops for fall
August 23, 2012
These nursing tops are so stylish and flattering that no one will know they are nursing top! These tops are designed in a way that will fit and flatter your new mom curves, and include details that make breastfeeding your baby a breeze.
The D&A Nursing Surplice Top from Japanese Weekend ($74) is perfect for work or play. The top features side shirring and hip drapey kimono sleeves that look stylish and modern. To nurse, you pull the neckline to the side and pull up the shelf panel underneath.
This Pull Down Cold Shoulder Nursing Tee from A Pea in the Pod (pictured, $25) features sexy shoulder cut-outs in a jersey knit material. The banded bottom hem is perfect for hiding a new mom tummy. No one will know this is a nursing top but you!
The Eve Alexander Butterfly Tie Maternity/Nursing Top ($45) from Target is a great basic nursing piece to have on hand during the fall and winter months. The long-sleeves and flattering design will keep you comfortable and make breastfeeding baby easy.
I can’t write a piece on nursing tops without including Glamourmom! Their tanks are great because they can be used as layering pieces and they have a full built-in nursing bra –which means you don’t have to wear a nursing bra plus this tank. As an added bonus, the Glamourmom Nursing Bra Tummy Control Long Tank ($59) has built-in shapewear that trims the tummy and waist!
More fashion tips for new moms:
How to prepare your breastfeeding wardrobe
Maternity and nursing bra basics
New mom fashion tips
Maternity must-have: Celebrity moms love Cake Lingerie
July 20, 2012
Pregnancy is not the time to hide your new curves! Embrace them and show them off with Cake Lingerie, which specializes in maternity and nursing lingerie. Their styles are sophisticated, sensual and empower women to feel sexy during pregnancy and as a new mom.
With a collection including Toffee camisoles, Apple Crumble nightwear and Shortbread bras, Cake Lingerie is after a pregnant women’s heart! In fact, many celebrity moms love Cake Lingerie, including Kourtney Kardashian, who just gave birth to her daughter Penelope Scotland. No word on exactly what Kourtney purchased, however this Grey Cotton Candy Seamless Nursing Bra would be the perfect choice if she decides to breastfeed Penelope.
Other celebrity moms have also jumped on the Cake bandwagon. Heidi Klum was seen purchasing Chocolate Chip maternity nursing bra, while actress Ali Larter wore Blueberry Torte nightwear. Mariah Carey wore French Vanilla while pregnant with her twins, while Miranda Kerr loved Plum Pudding and Meringue.
Their website also has great interactive features, including a size calculator and interactive maternity bra guide. Cake lingerie and bras are the perfect marriage of style and function – so it is no wonder that they were named 2011 UK Maternity Brand of the Year Award for premium luxury and fit perfection.
Check out Cake Lingerie for the entire collection and to purchase online.
More pregnancy fashion:
Maternity bra basics
How to prepare your breastfeeding wardrobe
Maternity style crush: Kourtney Kardashian’s summer white
Ameda launches new nursing bra and nursing camisole collection
July 18, 2012
Ameda has been known for its breastfeeding products, including breast pumps and bottles, for over 70 years – and now they have put that knowledge to work when designing their new Ameda Intimates Nursing Bra and Nursing Camisole collection.
Ameda’s new line features comfortable support that helps minimize plugged ducts to prevent mastitis. The flexible microfiber fabric and dual side knit panels adapts to your changing shape, is absorbent and the fabric is free of harmful substances – which is great if you are allergy-prone.
According to the press release from Ameda, this new line has great features new moms will appreciate, including:
• Lightly absorbent microfiber fabric prevents bacteria growth and odors
• Fabric is free of harmful substances, reducing the risk of skin irritation and allergy for both mom and baby
• Dual knit side panels adapt to a mother’s changing shape
• Drop cup design with one-hand release clasp provides easy access for breastfeeding in public.
• A variety of breast sizes (A-J cups) and flexible sizing for the right fit the first time
• Machine washable
The Ameda Intimates Nursing Bra is available in beige (and will soon be available in black) for $39.99 and the camisole is $44.99. They can be purchased at Amedadirect.com, Amedaonline.com, and Amedababy.com.
More breastfeeding tips:
How to prepare your breastfeeding wardrobe
Maternity bra basics
Best nursing tops for new moms
Trendspotting: Diaper bags from Pottery Barn
June 27, 2012
Thought Pottery Barn Kids just had cool bedding and fabulous furniture? Think again! They now have a new line of practical diaper bags that are perfect for toting all of baby’s belongings in style.
Pottery Barn Kids has three new lines of diaper bags to fit your needs, including Larkspur, Harper and the Sausalito collections. In keeping with Pottery Barn tradition, all these bags and totes can be monogrammed for a personalized touch.
The Pottery Barn Kids Larkspur Collection (priced at $99) are crafted of fine linen and include stylish brown mosaic, blue leaf or orange ikat designs – and feature a braided handle to fit comfortable on your shoulder. The bag is coated for moisture resistance, and includes a removable changing pad. Pictured is the Orange Ikat Larkspur Diaper Bag.
The Harper Collection ($49.50) is perfect for heading to the beach! This collection is available in navy, pink and green and includes outside pockets for easy access to the bottle, keys or pacifier and a waterproof lining easily handles wet clothes.
The Sausalito Collection ($149) diaper bags are large enough to include all you and your baby’s items. They have a chic print on cotton canvas which is accented with contrast leather handles and trim. The pockets on the inside and outside make it handy to organize, while a foldout changing pad makes it easy when you are on the go.
For more ideas, check out fab diaper bags for new moms >>
