Pregnancy can be a joyous experience for women. However, with the morning sickness, swelling, and creative cravings, it may not put mommy-to-be in the mood to dress up. Babycenter.com has expert advice on how to shop for a great maternity wardrobe. Fortunately, we have a list of six ways you can utilize your greatest accessory—your baby bump, to feel pretty and powerful while pregnant.
1. Show off your curves: Just because you have a bun in the oven does not mean you have to resort to baggy clothes. In reality, “form-fitting is much more flattering than really loose.” Wearing clothes that fit you can focus the attention of onlookers onto your bump. If you wear clothes that are too big for you, pregnant or not, you risk looking bigger than you really are.
2. Show some Skin: Contrary to popular belief, “you don’t have to go undercover[ed] just because you’re pregnant.” During pregnancy, your body changes, and instead of hiding it, embrace it! When your breasts become fuller, wear a lower cut shirt. By flaunting your changing figure, you will feel more confident.
3. Wear layers: Because “your body is working overtime to make sure your baby gets enough blood, nutrients, and oxygen,” you may feel cold most of the time. Therefore, layering up with a cardigan and undershirts, can keep you warm when you need to be. But be careful. If you layer up too much, you might look frumpy. When done right, you can get away with wearing an oversized sweater and tights.
4. Wear proper accessories: If you feel your maternity wardrobe lacks prints and colors, “accessories are a great way to get more mileage out of an outfit.” Chunky jewelry, like bracelets and necklaces, can make any outfit pop.
5. Undergarments: You can mix up your underwear options with pieces that are both sexy and practical. Overall, “whether you’re planning a night on the town or an afternoon lounging around the house, you’ll look and feel better if your unmentionables aren’t pinching you in all the wrong places.” As long as you find underwear that supports you and fits you comfortably, you can opt for sexy fabrics like lace.
6. Get some shoes: Choosing proper shoes while pregnant are essential because “the joints in your body — including those in your feet — are loosening up in response to relaxin, the pregnancy hormone that allows your pelvis to expand to make way for your baby during delivery.” As your belly, hips, and breasts grow, so do your feet. Therefore, it is important to find shoes that fit you at different stages of pregnancy and when you find your perfect size, you can explore all or the trendy, preppy, and comfy style options to keep you stylish during pregnancy!