How to buy maternity clothes that fit
May 15, 2012
Most expecting moms have the same common complaint- how can I find maternity clothes that are comfortable and fit my changing body? Let us help with our pregnancy fashion fit guide!
Shopping online is great because you can do it from the comfort of your own home – and don’t have to waddle from store to store looking for the perfect baby shower dress! What is the trick to finding clothes that fit when ordering online? Most sites have a fit guide that allows you to order clothes according to your pre-pregnancy size, as well as measurements for chest and hips. Check out A Pea in the Pod’s size chart here >>
Pregnancy cleavage can be a perk, however I have heard many pregnant moms-to-be complain that many maternity tops are too low cut and leave them feeling self conscious. One easy solution is to layer a lightweight cami underneath the shirt to give your coverage – not to mention the layered look is a chic look this season.
Check out the best bras for breastfeeding moms here >>
Look for maternity clothes that will grow with your changing body. Jeans should have a belly panel or buttons on the side that can be adjusted. Tops should be cut long enough to cover your baby bump from trimester one to trimester three. Look for dresses that have tie backs to give your body shape and definition throughout your pregnancy. You can also pair your own belt with tunic tops and flowing dresses under your baby bump for a chic look.
Pictured is the Sleeveless Smocked Waist Maternity Dress in coral crush from A Pea in the Pod.
Also check out: Best maternity dresses for spring and summer >>
5 Easy tips to feel great and look great during pregnancy
May 11, 2012
Pregnancy is a wonderful time a woman’s life – but, let’s face it, most women don’t feel wonderful 100% of the time. There are many perks of pregnancy (cleavage! thicker hair!) but also some not-so-fun symptoms, including swelling, acne and the third trimester double chin! Check out these tips to feel great and look great during pregnancy.
Lovely in layers: During pregnancy, your hormones are going crazy which means you are hot one minute, and maybe feel a little chilled the next minute. Layer a lightweight cardigan over a tank top or short-sleeve tee so you feel comfortable no matter what mood your body is in.
Buy new underwear: You would be surprised how tight underwear can put you in a bad mood. As your belly (and your body, in general) grows and changes, pick up some new maternity underwear. Get tips on buying maternity underwear here >>
And why you are at it…
Buy a new bra: Most women will find their breast size increases by at least one cup size during pregnancy. As soon as your pre-pregnancy bra starts feeling tight, get measured for a new bra that is comfortable and supportive of your new pregnancy cleavage.
Check out the best bras for breastfeeding moms here >>
Ditch the uncomfortable clothes: Even if those designer maternity jeans look fab, if they don’t feel fab then don’t wear them. I know I couldn’t wear jeans at all in my third trimester. If you don’t feel good, you won’t look good.
Also check out: Third trimester feel-good fashions >>
Stock up on dresses: Whether you prefer long maxi dresses or flirty sundresses, a chic dress is not only flattering on your pregnancy curves, but comfortable as well. You don’t have to mess with matching a top or a bottom and they can be dressed up or down.
Cute maternity dresses for your baby shower under $50 >>
How to get poolside chic while pregnant
May 10, 2012
Flaunt your sexy pregnancy curves on the beach or poolside this summer with our swimwear tips. Whether you prefer a full piece suit, tankini or bikini, we’ve got you covered!
The first step in getting poolside chic is to find a suit that flatters your body type and one you feel comfortable in. A bikini is great for moms who want to show off their bump, while a full-piece suit is perfect for looking classic and polished. For those pregnant moms-to-be who want to show a little more skin than a full –piece, but not as much skin as a bikini, then the tankini is the perfect option. Pictured is the Striped Maternity Tankini from Motherhood Maternity.
Check out trendy and flattering maternity swimsuits >>
Once you have your swimsuit, you need a cover-up that can go from poolside to lunch. I love the selection at A Pea in the Pod, which features everything from long cover-ups to chic sundress cover tanks and bandeau dresses.
Check out more chic maternity swim cover-ups here >>
Finish off your look with a pair of large sunglasses to protect your eyes, and a chic sun hat to keep sunspots at bay. You will love the oversized brim and open weave of the Raffia Sun Hat ($34.95) from Gap Maternity.
Find out how to treat and prevent sunspots during pregnancy >>
Sweet maternity sundresses
May 9, 2012
It is hard to beat the comfort and style of a sundress – especially as the weather heats up. We have rounded up our pick of the cutest maternity sundresses that are as budget-friendly as they are flattering.
A floral sundress is maternity must-have for women pregnant in the spring or summer months (or for those lucky mamas who live in warm weather year-round!). You will love the feminine ruffles and pretty floral print of the Sleeveless Ruffled Maternity Dress (pictured, on sale for $29.99) from Motherhood.
For a sundress that can be worn to your baby shower or summer wedding, you will love the pretty pink color and flower detail of the Merona Maternity One-Shoulder Rosette Dress ($39.99) from Target.
For a sundress that is polished enough to wear to work, check out the navy and cream Printed Tie-Front Dress ($59.95) from Gap Maternity. This dress features a sophisticated cowl neckline and tie front feature, which helps it fit and flatter your curves throughout your pregnancy.
Kimono sundresses are a chic look for the spring and summer months – and we love the purple and blue hues on the Print Kimono Maternity Dress by Three Seasons ($44) from Due Maternity.
More pregnancy fashion:
Chic and comfortable shoes for pregnant moms-to-be
Cute baby shower dresses under $50
Steal her maternity style: Kourtney Kardashian
Hot maternity trends for 2012
May 5, 2012
It’s time to dress your baby bump in style! What will be the hottest maternity trends this year? Fashion stylist and designer Claudia Patel shared her top trends for 2012 and how you can incorporate these looks into your own maternity wardrobe.
Bohemian: “Boho chic is a sure trend to come back in spring 2012, and moms-to-be are actually the most suited to carry this off. The look is laid back and carefree, comfortable and classic,” says Patel.
She suggests wearing wrap dresses and maxi dresses to pull this look off. “One piece Maxi dresses that have paisley or floral prints are best, as they not only help cover and flatter that baby bump (and it’s so easy to wear), but they further dial up that beautifully ethereal look of the mom-to-be,” she says.
Check out more bohemian maternity style tips here >>
Pastels: “Tender, light colors will be a big look for maternity wear,” she says. “Colors like dove grey and misty blue are of the clearest and palest of pastels, and will help reflect a vintage mood that creates a romantic, almost subtle sexiness to the expecting mother.”
Bold colors: This season, Patel says to incorporate bright, fun shades into your wardrobe. “Don’t be afraid of a little color. With pregnancy comes a glow that should be celebrated,” she says.
How should you incorporate this look into your wardrobe? “This spring season, it’s all about the bright jean, Find your best hue and capitalize on the availability of maternity lines in brand name stores such as Gap and Anne Taylor,” she says. “Pair a brightly colored pant with a neutral top for an effortless, chic outfit. Invert the look like Kourtney Kardashian for another take on this trend.”
Check out Kourtney Kardashian’s maternity style here >>
Pictured is the ASOS Maternity Skinny Jean in calypso coral ($58.17).
Also check out: Trendy (and comfortable!) shoes for pregnant moms >>
Comfortable must-have spring maternity styles
May 2, 2012
Spring has sprung! It is time to pack away those bulky sweaters and heavy coats and embrace fun colors and comfortable and chic dresses and skirts. Check out our pick of comfortable spring maternity styles that will take you through the warmer months and even post-baby!
Maxi dresses are the perfect choice for pregnant women looking for a flattering and comfortable look for spring. They can be worn from trimester one and even after baby is born – making them a maternity must-have. The pictured Nicole Miller Stretch Fabric Maternity Maxi Dress is gorgeous – however a splurge at $295. Another chic and budget-friendly option is the Merona striped maxi dress from Target for $29.99.
A long tiered maternity skirt is a chic look for spring. Pair it with a bump-hugging tank or floral blouse for a look that is perfect for work or play. One great option is the Secret Fit Belly Full Length Tiered Maternity Skirt from Motherhood ($49.98).
Tunics are a must-have for spring because they are flattering, comfortable and versatile to boot! Pair them with skinny jeans or wear them belted with leggings for a stylish twist. One great choice is the Jersey Tunic from Old Navy Maternity for $19.94.
Everyone needs a cotton summer dress — and this fab one from Isabella Oliver ($145) should be at the top of your list! Available in coral, white and navy, this dress features feminine details like mother of pearl buttons and is made of a breathable fresh cotton twill.
More pregnancy fashion:
Is Botox safe during pregnancy? What about chemical peels?
Rachel Zoe shares maternity style tips
Best maternity dresses for spring
Cute baby shower maternity dresses under $50
April 30, 2012
Who says you have to blow your budget for a cute maternity dress for your baby shower? Not us! We have rounded up trendy maternity dresses that will flatter your pregnancy curves – and they are all $50 or under.
Your baby shower is not the time for a black dress. Embrace colors in this pictured Sleeveless Faux Wrap Maternity Dress in a beautiful Wild Ashter color. Available at Motherhood Maternity for just $29.98, this v-necked dress features beautiful embroidery down the front that will look gorgeous in photos.
Also check out: Heidi Klum shares new mom tips for looking great in photos >>
A Pea in the Pod carries designer dresses and you can often find a great deal in their sale section. This AKA New York Maternity Maxi Dress is in a lovely blue tile print and on sale for $49.99 (originally priced $175). Pair this with wedge heels or sandals for a chic maternity look.
The combination of stripes and a pretty pink floral print make this Empire Waist Maternity Dress from Motherhood Maternity ($39.98) a great choice for a baby shower dress. The black tie and bow gives your body shape and definition making a perfect choice for moms-to-be in their second or third trimesters.
You will love the feminine details on the Maternity Tie-Neck Dress in a pretty silver sash brown ($34.99, Old Navy Maternity). The ruffled, rounded neckline will flatter your pregnancy cleavage, while the smocked waist ensures a perfect fit throughout your pregnancy.
If you still didn’t find the perfect dress, check out the maternity sections of some of our favorite sites, including ASOS.com, Target.com, Motherhood.com and DestinationMaternity.com. Also check out our pick of 5 chic belted maternity dresses >>
For the perfect shoe, check out these chic shoes perfect for pregnant moms-to-be >>
Do you need to buy maternity underwear?
April 26, 2012
Do you need to buy maternity underwear – or will regular underwear do just fine? Many pregnant moms-to-be expect to buy maternity clothes and larger bras, but often forget about undergarments.
Most women (unless you are supermodel Gisele Bundchen) will have to buy larger underwear while pregnant to accommodate your larger belly (and larger body in general). In general, once your underwear starts to feel tight around your belly or around your legs, it is time to start shopping. You don’t necessarily have to buy maternity underwear, however not just any underwear will work.
If shopping non-maternity panties, make sure they have plenty of stretch and aren’t tight around the legs. Bikini styles of underwear are cut lower and will accommodate your growing belly better than high-waisted underwear.
Also check out: Hot mom-to-be! Sexy maternity lingerie >>
Maternity underwear are great and many consider them worth the splurge because they are cut specifically for your pregnant body. Many have larger leg holes and are cut to allow for belly growth. They are made of breathable fabric and have plenty of stretch. Today’s maternity underwear aren’t just function, but they are pretty as well! I love the lace and feminine colors of the pictured Maternity Hipster Panties ($16.98 for 3) from Motherhood.
In fact, Motherhood Maternity has a wide variety of maternity underwear options, including bikinis, thongs, hipsters, hi-cut brief, fold over and plus size.
Target also has a great assortment of maternity underwear at great prices.
What about maternity bras? Check out our pick of top maternity bras here >>
Cute maternity style on a budget
April 25, 2012
Are you looking for a cute maternity look that won’t break the bank? Many of today’s maternity clothes are stylish, comfortable and affordable. In fact, this outfit from Old Navy Maternity is perfect for spring and summer and will fit nicely into your budget.
Shopping online is the best way to find cute maternity clothes on a budget – and you can do it all from the comfort of your own home! If you have your eye on a pair of maternity designer denim, for example, comparison shop to find the best deal. Many stores offer discounted or free shipping and returns to boot.
You can also find great deals on gently used or new maternity clothes on eBay. Bid on clothes and don’t be surprised if you find that amazing baby shower dress or designer maternity jeans for a fraction of what would you pay in the store.
Online stores like Old Navy Maternity, Target Maternity, Motherhood Maternity or Destination Maternity are some of our top picks.
We love the stylish and chic look (pictured) from Old Navy. Pair a brown maternity fold over skirt ($19.94) with a scoop rib-knit tank top ($12.94). Add a chic knotted scarf, such as the one pictured from Old Navy ($14.95) with a cropped jacket, such as the pictured maternity cropped denim jacket ($36.94).
More pregnancy fashion:
Top maternity shorts
Best maternity dresses
Should you color your hair during pregnancy?
Maternity work attire for spring
April 21, 2012
Freshen up your maternity work attire with these fresh and fun spring essentials. From fun floral blouses and colorful dresses, infuse bold colors into your dresses and accessories.
A shirt dress has a polished, tailored look perfect for spring. You will love the ¾ Sleeve Shirt Dress in a gorgeous soft orange (pictured, $119) from Destination Maternity. The mandarin collar and sash belt dress give this dress a sophisticated edge making it perfect for work. Accessorize with gold jewelry and tan wedges.
Check out our interview with Pregnant in Heels star Rosie Pope >>
Ann Taylor Loft Maternity has a great line of maternity clothes perfect for the workplace. One of my top picks is the Maternity Smocked Top Knit Dress ($54.50). This dress is not only chic and comfortable, but it will fit and flatter you throughout your pregnancy.
Sophisticated maternity style tips >>
Dresses are my top choice for the workplace because they look stylish and pulled together without having to mess with matching tops to a bottom! If you love wearing pants to work, however, consider the Maternity Dropped Pants ($64.50) from Ann Taylor Loft.
Pair your pants with a silky, draped blouse, such as the Maternity Split Neck Peplum Blouse ($54.50) and your set for work!
Also check out: Comfortable and stylish heels during pregnancy >>
