I fought true maternity clothes until nearly halfway through my first pregnancy; then, I embraced the idea of buying only what I absolutely had to and what I loved. The rest I could fill in with my current closet, plus a few items here and there from the normal racks with a little creativity, and another savior of few maternity purchases: borrowing from friends.
At the tail end of my third pregnancy, I’ve learned how to make the most of a few key pieces to keep my growing belly (three-times-over) covered and cute. It starts with being a disciplined shopper and really only buying what you would consider buying even if you weren’t pregnant, and then looking at your closet in a new way to make it grow along with you through those 10 belly busting months. Yes, TEN.
1. Belly Band – I used the dickens out of these tops in my first pregnancy. (Although, I actually purchased mine from Target here in the ICT.) I carried my first baby higher than the subsequent other two, and with magic band definitely gave me more weeks to wear my normal pants (including work pants!).
2. Skinny Jeans – I bought my only pair here (Sold brand) and begrudgingly retired them midway through this third pregnancy because I was wearing holes into them. They were the perfect dark shade, and I was often asked if I was still wearing my normal jeans when I had them on, because they were exactly like something I would have worn pre- or post-baby.
3. Denim Shorts – I just added this pair to my baby-growing wardrobe as I’m only now having my first summer baby. I tend to prefer the full panel on my pants as I think it holds pants in place better, but I must admit the inset panel is the way to go for summer staples. I can’t imagine having a full piece of thick elastic covering my mid-section during these hot, sticky months.
4. A Go-To Maxi Dress – I found this gem from Target in 2012, and it has been worn and worn and worn and worn and worn and worn (by me and at least 3 other friends).
Dress it up, dress it down, wear it in the summer alone, or in the winter with a cardi and anywhere in between. I have several other maxis on rotation right now…some maternity and some not. My faves are those that hug my curves and accentuate my bump rather than blimp out over the top and actually end up making me look bigger. Here’s another example, and it’s not maternity!
It has a great ruched waistline that keeps the fabric skimming around the babe in a flattering way!
5. Tunics – You can buy these ANYWHERE (read: not maternity) and may or may not have to size up, just depending on the specific fit.
Go for an ideal length that covers you bum, but isn’t bordering dress-length and has a nice flowy fit. Perfect for pairing with my next fave…
6. Leggings – It’s up to you on whether or not you want to purchase actual maternity leggings. I have worn both. I just roll the waistline down under my bump on the regular pair. It’s imperative to spend a bit more and get a pair that isn’t see-through.
7. Athletic Tops – I always feel better sporting my bump in a top made to accommodate my growing baby belly vs a baggy t-shirt where I feel like everyone is looking at me trying to decide…is she? or isn’t she? The length on these tops, made specifically for mamas-to-be, is enough for me to get away with wearing my regular workout bottoms, too!
8. Slide-on Shoes – Flats for the winter, and sandals without a back-strap this summer. Not that I can’t put them on by myself, but when I’m chasing around my kiddos, running out to do a quick errand, or walking the tots down to the pool, it is so much nicer to slide on a go-to pair instead of having to sit down to lace, zip, or strap a pair on.
9. Maternity Swimsuit – I’ve been known to rock a two-piece with a belly bump…
…but for most days when I’m bound to have at least one kiddo slug on hip, I prefer a one-piece in a gorgeous, vibrant color, stylish fit and I know isn’t going to slip or slide into an embarrassing place.
Mine isn’t sold here anymore, but they do still have some great options.
10. Accessories – A hot pink lip, a statement pair of earrings or necklace, tying a belt above your bump to pull in your waist…the possibilities are endless.
These special pieces highlight that mama-to-be glow. Enjoy it!
