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
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Pregnancy fashions for every body type
March 4, 2013
It’s easy to find fashion tips for dressing various non-pregnant body types — apple, pear, hourglass and so on. But what styles look best on pregnant body types?
We asked Olivia Capone Myers, design director for A Pea in the Pod and a first-time mama-to-be: Are there pregnancy fashions that work for all body types? Thankfully, yes. Olivia offers these tips for making the most of every figure’s bump style:
Ruching
“You can’t go wrong with side ruching on tops and dresses in maternity wear,” says Olivia. “No matter a woman’s height or shape, ruching at the sides of a garment creates a flattering silhouette for her bump.”
For spring, you can’t beat the vibrant Catharine Malandrino Maternity T-Shirt from A Pea in the Pod Collection ($80, Destination Maternity). The jersey-knit tee features short sleeves, a draped neck and side ruching in colors like orange and magenta.
Jersey Knit
“Jersey dresses are great, especially longer ones,” says Olivia. “They hug you in all the right places.” Olivia adds cuffs or chandelier earrings to make them pop.
The Sleeveless Maternity Maxi Dress from A Pea in the Pod Collection fits the bill perfectly ($175, Destination Maternity). The full-length jersey knit dress boasts a scoop neck and blue/mohair stripes.
Pretty details
“Feminine accents like ties, bows and skinny belts work well on expecting moms,” says Olivia. “They give your waist definition.”
Check out the Belted Bi-stretch Suiting Maternity Jacket by A Pea in the Pod ($99, Destination Maternity). In a pretty dark grey, the long-sleeve poly-blend jacket is sophisticated yet feminine — ideal for the office or a night on the town.
Tankinis
“When it comes to swimwear, I think tankinis are flattering on everyone,” says Olivia. “I recommend one in a print or vibrant color.”
We are loving the Ruched Maternity Tankini Swimsuit by A Pea in the Pod ($89, Destination Maternity). The red two-piece swimsuit features the flattering shirring detail and halter neck. Spectacular!
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Are maternity clothes really necessary?
February 25, 2013
How big you get or how much weight you gain varies dramatically from one woman to another and from one pregnancy to the next. While some expectant mamas are eager to buy fun, trendy maternity clothes, others are content to wear hubby’s larger sizes. We asked Olivia Capone Myers, design director for A Pea in the Pod, if maternity clothes are really necessary.
“Comfort and fit go hand-in-hand. When you have both, you feel your best,” explains Olivia. “When you size up, the proportions won’t be right, even if the clothing fits your belly.” Maternity clothes aren’t just bigger — they’re designed to fit your body where it’s changing.
Maternity clothing is an investment, but you can be fashion-forward without going broke. “It’s possible to retain your pre-pregnancy style with the assortment of maternity clothes that are available today at prices that accommodate everyone’s budget,” says Olivia.
So what should you buy? “I recommend making a list of clothing items that are staples for you,” advises Olivia. “That way you are only investing in what you know you’ll wear.”
“A few pairs of Secret Fit Belly® jeans” by A Pea in the Pod from Destination Maternity.
- Flattering dark boot cut: Silver Jeans Secret Fit Belly® 5-Pocket Boot Cut Maternity Jeans ($79)
- Trendy denim skinny jeans: Secret Fit Belly® 5-Pocket Skinny Leg Maternity Jeans ($95)
- Bright colored twills: SOLD Design Lab Butter Secret Fit Belly® 5-Pocket Skinny Leg Maternity Jeans in Berry ($59)
- Summery cropped jeans: Secret Fit Belly® 5-Pocket Maternity Capri Jeans in White ($59)
“Some basic tees.” Check them out now at DestinationMaternity.com — they’re Buy One Get One Free!
You’ll love the variety of flattering maternity tees from which to choose, including peplum ($85), ruched ($59), embellished ($49), striped ($49), short-sleeve ($59), elbow sleeve ($85), three-quarter sleeve ($165), long sleeve ($89), flutter sleeve ($99), draped neck ($99), henley ($59), high-low hem ($98), A-line ($130), hooded ($90), cold shoulder ($89), color block ($79) and many, many more!
“A layering piece.”
Pair your jeans and tee with a comfy cardigan, like the LNA Long-Sleeve Button Front Maternity Sweater($99) or the AG Jeans Flap Pocket Plain Weave Denim Maternity Jacket ($149), both from A Pea in the Pod Collection at Destination Maternity.
“You don’t want to stress over your wardrobe and be uncomfortable when you are preparing for your baby or enjoying time with your newborn,” says Olivia, who is expecting her first child this spring. “Having clothes that fit saves you from unnecessary stress when there are so many more important things to focus on during this exciting time.”
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Spring fashion tips from pregnant Olivia Capone Myers
February 20, 2013
Pregnancy Fashion is thrilled to present weekly maternity style tips from Olivia Capone Myers. Olivia is the design director of A Pea in the Pod®, the premiere maternity collection for fashion-savvy moms-to-be and celebrities such as Naomi Watts, Jessica Alba, Jessica Simpson, Amy Adams and Salma Hayek.
Olivia oversees a team of nine designers who develop the concepts and colors needed to produce six fabulous collections each year. She combines her travels around the world – Europe, India and Asia – with her own style, which she describes as “clean and classic with a modern twist.”
This week, we asked Olivia: What are the biggest maternity trends we can expect to see for Spring 2013?
Color and print
“Spring is really all about color and print!” says Olivia. “Pastels and soft florals especially are on trend. Both add super ladylike touches to any outfit.”
We love the fuschia color of the Sleeveless Keyhole Detail Maternity Dress from A Pea in the Pod Collection ($195, DestinationMaternity.com)
Bright skinny jeans
“Definitely pick up a pair of skinny jeans in a bright hue or floral print,” suggests Olivia. “I love them with a basic tee or peasant top.”
Check out the red or blue Citizens of Humanity Avedon Secret Fit Belly® Plain Weave Denim Slim Fit Maternity Jeans from A Pea in the Pod collection ($198, DestinationMaternity.com). Pair these fabulous pants with the gorgeous ivory Beyond Vintage Elbow Sleeve Tie Detail Maternity Blouse ($99, DestinationMaternity.com). Buy now for a great Buy One Get One Free deal!
Stripes
“You will see a lot of clean stripes, which are actually great for pregnant women because they contour the belly,” adds Olivia.
We are seriously digging the orange and cream stripe Liquid by Nell Couture Sleeveless Halter Maternity Blouse from A Pea in the Pod Collection ($79, DestinationMaternity.com).
Peplums
“I also can’t get enough of the peplum trend,” gushes Olivia. “We see it in Hollywood, coming down the runways at Fashion Week and just about everywhere. The style is great in a top or dress for accentuating your new curves.”
You’ll love the Sleeveless Peplum Maternity Dress from A Pea in the Pod Collection ($79, DestinationMaternity.com). The brilliant red color and flattering cut of this dress will blow you away.
“Overall, you want to emphasize your bump!” says Olivia, whose first child is due this spring. “Expecting celebrity moms have the right idea – many of them are embracing more fitted maternity styles. Be proud of your new figure!”
Photo: Evan Leslie for Destination Maternity Corporation
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Maternity swimwear for your babymoon
February 15, 2013
Taking a babymoon — a romantic vacation before baby’s arrival — is very trendy these days! If yours features sun, sand and surf, then you’ll need a sweet swimsuit. We’ve rounded up a variety of maternity swimsuits — from sexy to serene — that are sure to make your babymoon a trip to remember.
Are you super confident? Go for the Prego Maternity Black Dot Bow Tie Bikini ($66 BellaBluMaternity.com). The 2-piece swimsuit features a white dot on black pattern and comes with an adjustable padded halter top with ring design. Pair the bikini with a sexy Crochet Detail Maternity Swim Cover-up from A Pea in the Pod Collection ($155, DestinationMaternity.com). The poly/spandex cover-up is available in S, M and L.
For a little more coverage, check out the Empire Seam Maternity Tankini Swimsuit in Purple Floral pictured here ($25, MotherhoodMaternity.com). The empire-waist fit and tankini design keeps your baby bump covered and comfy.
Keep it classy with a one-piece swimsuit like the Pez D’or Maternity Camarga in Red Print ($25, SwimOutlet.com). The suit is shelf-lined and features adjustable straps. Other pretty patterns are also available.
Curvier moms-to-be will love the Plus-Size Maternity Bathing Suit in Waves ($49, MommyliciousMaternity.com). The vibrant, pucci-print design highlights the suit that ties in the back and neck to assure a perfect fit for your changing bust throughout your pregnancy.
For excellent protection from sun and sand, opt for a Maternity Rash Guard Swim Shirt ($45, MermaidMaternity.net). The top, in Tropical, boasts contrast stitching and a drawstring hem for a custom fit for your belly. Pair it with swim shorts, board shorts or a swim skirt for a modest seaside look.
Have a wonderful babymoon!
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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.
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Maternity Fashion Trend: Color Blocking
February 11, 2013
Pregnancy offers a great opportunity to experiment with fashion. Enhance your maternity wardrobe with some fun color blocking pieces. Who knows: you might like the look so much that you embrace it postpartum, too!
Long-Sleeve Button-Front Maternity Shirt ($59, Destination Maternity): We love this cheery pink/orange top by A Pea in the Pod (shown left). The long-sleeves and bright colors are ideal for the approaching winter-to-spring transition. As your tummy expands and the blouse becomes more difficult to button, consider wearing it open over a maternity tank top.
Maternity 3/4-Sleeve Color Block Dress ($30, JCPenney): This dress features classic styling with trendy, bold red/light gray/dark gray color blocking. Made in America, this gem hits right above the knee and would look adorable with a pair of chunky pumps or slinky boots.
Maternity Color-Block Maxi Dress ($25, Old Navy): This breezy maxi dress is a 60% cotton/40% Modal® blend is machine-washable and oh-so-easy to wear. The neckline is rounded, the elasticized empire waist features a working drawstring, and the skirt portion of the dress features color blocking (your choice of orange/light pink/dark pink or blue/yellow/green).
Drape Neck Color-Block Maternity Top ($12, Meijer): With bold gray/light blue/navy color blocking and drape-styled sleeves and neckline, this lightweight top pairs beautiful with dress pants, skirt or a simple pair of jeans.
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Maternity compression stockings: Why you need them
February 8, 2013
Ugh. Support hose. Compression stockings. They sound so old-fashioned and un-stylish. But for any woman who’s ever suffered from pregnancy-induced varicose veins, maternity compression hosiery is a lifesaver.
Varicose are more than unsightly… they’re terribly painful. Your legs hurt and throb until you squeeze them into these strange stockings. d.
You don’t have varicose veins? Keep it that way by investing in maternity compression stockings before your veins get a chance to stretch. (Your chance of developing them increases with each pregnancy, by the way.)
But compression stockings are ugly, you say as you recall the thick surgical tights your grandmother wore. Fortunately, you have more fashionable options that still do the job. What’s important to keep in mind as you shop is that the hose be made specifically for maternity-induced varicose veins.
Compression Levels
Look for hosiery that provides a specific support level (such as 8-14 mmHg, for example). Fashion hose that boast “maternity support” are just ordinary stockings. Bottom line: If no support level is indicated, then your veins are not getting support.
If you have not yet developed varicose veins, start with a low level of support. If varicose veins are a serious problem, speak to your doctor. Super-high levels of support are available by prescription.
Opaque or Sheer
Both are available for low levels of support. But the greater your need, the more opaque your stockings must be. If you’re really turned off by their appearance, consider wearing them under long maternity skirts or maxi dresses.
Tights or knee socks
Whether you opt for knee-high, thigh-high or full-length tights depends on where you have the most troublesome veins. If the veins your thighs are the problem, choose full-length pantyhose or tights. Go with knee highs is your worst veins are in your lower legs.
Get started with fashionable, low-level support hose at RUPreggers.com. Try the knee-high 10-15 mmHg French Twist Maternity Support Trouser Socks ($15), the sheer, full-length 10-15 mmHg Maternity Pantyhose ($24) or the opaque, full-length, 10-15 mmHg Maternity Tights ($28).
Plan to wear your compression stockings every day, and replace them when they become too easy to pull on.
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Sexy maternity lingerie to boost your body image
February 6, 2013
A fashionable pregnancy begins with your lingerie. Don’t settle for drab and dull – choose sexy, flirty bras, panties and sleepwear and feel good about your beautiful body!
Frustrated by the lack of fashionable undies, new mom Uyo Okebie-Eichelberger founded You! Lingerie to fill the gap. “We believe that you do not have to give up your fashionista style just because you are a mommy.”
You! Lingerie features splashes of hot pink and flirty bows. The panties are cotton-lined and the bras boast nursing clips. Functional and practical (and super-affordable) never looked so sexy!
Sexy You!
Peach and nude colors come together for this beautifully constructed maternity bra, which features soft shimmer lace, full molded plunge cups and decorative bows (see photo). The matching panties are thong style and oh-so-gorgeous.
Playful You!
There’s nothing boring about this white bra and panty set. Expectant moms will adore the white cups embellished with the brand’s signature hot pink lining and decorative bows. The matching boy shorts-style undies are sexy and comfy.
Flirty You!
You’ll feel like a million bucks in a nude lingerie set that is both functional and fashionable. The hot pink color splashes compliment the plunge-cup bras and boy shorts-style pants. To die for!
Signature You!
The Signature You! collection boasts gorgeous shades such as Ella Rose, Isis Blue, Bella Cerise, Berry Monroe, Amber Plum, Rumi Noir and Azalea Orchid.
And to make sure you look and feel your very best, You! Lingerie provides a fitting guide with detailed measuring instructions.
Check out more stunning bras and panties at the You! Lingerie online store (prices vary).
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Chic Maternity Fashions for Spring 2013
February 5, 2013
Spring is a time of planning: gardens, summer vacations and more. Pregnancy is a time of planning nurseries, perusing baby names… and choosing a fab maternity wardrobe! Plan now for a trendy pregnancy with these stunning maternity finds for the Spring 2013 season.
Flowers
Nothing says Spring like fresh, colorful flowers, like a Long-Sleeve Button-Front Maternity Blouse covered in bright blooms ($135, A Pea in the Pod). Featuring a mandarin collar, this silk crepe de chine blouse is easy to pair with jeans, cropped pants or a skirt. It’s one of A Pea in the Pod’s customer favorites.
Bright Colors
Dump the dark winter shades and perk up your maternity wardrobe with colors like Raspberry Sorbet or Teal Blast. The Maternity Smock-Necked A-Line Tee ($39, Loft.com) is a perfect Spring pick-me-up. The flirty tee features a scoop neck and flutter cap sleeves for the ultimate in femininity. And it’s available in sizes XS through XXL! You’ll want one of each color.
Ruffles
Fun, flirty ruffles are a sure sign of Spring, and so is the Merona® Maternity Sleeveless Ruffle Dress ($24, Target). In lovely colors such as Amparo Blue and Bering Sea, this V-neck pullover dress hits right above the knee to show off your gorgeous gams and your sweetest sandals.
Stripes
From nautical to chevron, bold stripes will be on everything this Spring. We love the Secret Fit Belly® Full-Length Relaxed-Fit Maternity Skirt with graduated grey and white stripes ($30, Motherhood® Maternity). This comfy skirt will be that go-to piece when you want to look stylish while feeling truly comfortable.
Message Tops
Now that you don’t have to take cover under sweaters and coats, you have the freedom to spread messages and slogans — using your adorable baby bump! Slogan Maternity Tops are so much fun, and you can get away with some really edgy stuff when you’re pregnant. “Who’s Barefoot?” “I love epidurals.” “Knocked Up.” “Love Child.” And our favorite, “I Love My Buddha Belly” ($36, BabiesNBellies.com).
We love pregnant Holly Madison‘s early spring ensemble. The pretty mama-to-be was all smiles as she left the Meatball Spot in Las Vegas after attending her baby shower. (Photo: Joel Ginsburg/WENN.com)
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